From sleek to sky-high, these ponytail looks bring all the volume

Nothing upgrades a ponytail like some serious length and volume—perfect for those in-between wash days when you want max style with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeling a sky-high Ariana pony or loose waves with extra bounce, extensions bring the instant drama regular hair simply can’t. 

Ready to level up your look? We’ve got 14 ponytail extension ideas for you to try.

Which extensions work best for ponytails?

Hair extensions are the secret weapon for anyone chasing instant length and volume. But not all extensions play nice with a ponytail. Here’s a quick guide to the different types, their perks, and what to watch out for—so you can find your perfect ponytail match.

 

Clip-in ponytail extensions

Clip-ins are the quick fix for those who want instant ponytail drama. Designed as a full ponytail piece, clip-ins usually come pre-styled, making them ideal for anyone short on time but big on volume. Just clip it in and voilà—your hair is ready to go. The main perk? They’re beginner-friendly, which means no complicated install or salon appointment.

Pros: Fast, easy to use, versatile (swap out colors or styles).

Cons: Can feel heavy if worn all day; you’ll need to keep those clips secure to avoid any slip-ups.

 

Weft or sew-in extensions

For anyone after that “this is ALL my natural hair (wink wink)” look, weft or sew-in extensions are your best bet. Sewn directly into your natural hair, they’re not going anywhere—even through a high ponytail workout. This style is great for longer-term wear but requires some skill (or a stylist) to install. If you’re committed to consistent volume, wefts will keep you looking full and fab without constant adjustments.

Pros: Long-lasting, seamless look, blends beautifully.

Cons: Takes more time and effort to install and requires regular salon maintenance.

 

Tape-in extensions

Tape-ins are like the stealth mode of extensions. With thin, adhesive strips that sit flat against your scalp, they blend right into your natural hair for an ultra-smooth look that’s perfect for low or mid-height ponytails. But beware: high ponies can reveal those tell-tale tapes, so stick to sleeker styles.

Pros: Lightweight, natural look, easy to style with low or mid ponies.

Cons: Limitations with high ponies; you’ll need regular re-taping every 6-8 weeks.

 

I-tip or micro-link extensions

For flexibility and volume, I-tip or micro-link extensions are a solid option. Attached with tiny metal or silicone beads, they give you the freedom to style up, down, or sideways without much hassle. However, they’re also not as invisible in high ponies—perfect for low-key looks, though.

Pros: Great for styling variety, adds flexible volume.

Cons: Visibility in high ponies, requires regular maintenance.

 

Halo extensions

Halo extensions are unique in that they sit on your head like a headband, held in place with a nearly invisible wire that blends into your natural hair. While they’re not typically meant for high ponytails, halos are perfect for adding length and volume to low or mid-height ponytails without clips, glue, or bonds. They’re also one of the easiest extensions to apply and remove, making them a great choice for anyone wanting a quick, fuss-free option.

Pros: Super easy to apply and remove, comfortable for all-day wear, ideal for low and mid-height ponytails.

Cons: Not suitable for high ponytails; can be less secure for intense activities or high-energy events.

 

Final take

Each type has its moment to shine, but it all comes down to the ponytail vibe you’re after. If you’re all about sky-high ponies with zero slip, go with clip-ins or sew-ins. For a smooth, natural look that’s ponytail-ready but low-key, tape-ins and I-tips bring the glam without the hassle.

 

You need to try these ponytail extension ideas 

From ultra-sleek styles to beachy, tousled waves, these ponytail extension ideas bring serious length, volume, and style.

 

Sleek ponytail

The sleek ponytail is a red-carpet favorite, known for its smooth, glossy finish and “no flyaways allowed” attitude. Think Kim Kardashian or Zendaya’s ultra-sleek look, where every strand is in place and the ponytail falls perfectly straight.

How it’s done:

1. Use a flat iron to straighten your hair and extensions for a polished base.
2. Add clip-ins or tape-ins for extra length.
3. Use a strong-hold gel or styling cream to smooth the top and sides.
4. Gather hair into a low or mid ponytail and secure it with a strong elastic.
5. Run a shine serum through the ponytail for that glassy effect.

 

Extra-long braid

If you’re after a dramatic, boho-inspired look, the extra-long braid is for you. Celebs like Blake Lively and Beyoncé have rocked versions of this, where length and volume do all the talking.

How it’s done:

1. Attach your preferred extensions (wefts or clip-ins work well) for added length.
2. Pull your hair back into a low or mid ponytail.
3. Divide into three sections and braid all the way down, keeping it tight.
4. Fasten with a small elastic.
5. For a more relaxed look, gently pull on the braid sections to add volume.

 

Super-high pony

Channel your inner Ariana Grande with a high, voluminous ponytail that sits right on top of your head. It’s a look that screams confidence and adds a bit of extra height.

How it’s done: 

1. Gather hair at the crown, brushing from the sides and back to create height.
2. Attach a clip-in ponytail extension for maximum volume.
3. Use a strong elastic, and consider a small hair “bump” under the ponytail for added lift.
4. Use a fine-tooth comb to tame any flyaways and keep it polished.
5. Set with a firm-hold spray to keep your pony in place all day (and night).

 

Slicked low pony

The slicked low ponytail combines elegance with a hint of edge, thanks to its wet-look finish. Think of Kendall Jenner’s red carpet style or Bella Hadid’s ultra-smooth, low-slung ponytails. This style keeps hair sleek and close to the scalp, making it ideal for a polished, minimal look.

How it’s done:

1. Apply a styling gel or wet-look cream to damp hair, working it from roots to mid-lengths.
2. Comb hair back smoothly, securing it at the nape of the neck with a strong elastic.
3. Add clip-ins or extensions for extra length if needed.
4. Run a shine serum through the ponytail for that glossy, wet finish.
5. Finish with a firm-hold hairspray to keep every strand in place.

 

Curled side fringe

The curled side fringe ponytail adds a touch of softness and elegance to any look, with celebrities like Selena Gomez and Emma Stone often rocking it on the red carpet. A curled side fringe gives dimension to a classic ponytail, framing the face with a soft wave.

How it’s done:

1. Pull most of your hair into a ponytail at the desired height and secure with an elastic.
2. Leave out a section of hair at the front for the fringe.
3. Use a curling wand to create loose, soft curls on the side fringe section.
4. Lightly brush the curls to soften and position them across your forehead.
5. Apply a lightweight hairspray to keep the fringe in place without making it stiff.

 

Messy mid-pony

For a laid-back yet chic look, the messy mid-pony is perfect. Think of Gigi Hadid’s relaxed, tousled ponytail that looks like you woke up fabulous. This style combines volume and texture for a low-maintenance but stylish vibe.

How it’s done:

1. Start by adding a texturizing spray to dry hair to create volume and grip.
2. Gather your hair into a ponytail at mid-height, keeping it loose and a bit undone.
3. Attach extensions for extra volume and gently tease the ponytail for that messy effect.
4. Pull out a few face-framing strands for added softness.
5. Set with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the look in place without losing texture.

 

French braid ponytail

The French braid ponytail is a playful yet refined style that gives a unique twist to the classic ponytail. Seen on stars like Margot Robbie, this look combines the sophistication of a braid with the versatility of a ponytail.

How it’s done:

1. Start a French braid from the top of your head, working it back toward the crown.
2. Once you reach the crown, gather all your hair, including the braid, into a mid or high ponytail.
3. Secure with an elastic and add clip-ins if you want more length or volume in the ponytail.
4. Lightly tug at the braid to create a bit of volume and texture.
5. Finish with a light hairspray to hold everything in place.

 

Pumped up curly pony

For major volume and bounce, the pumped-up curly ponytail is a playful, statement look. This style works perfectly with naturally curly hair or extensions to create fullness and height, making it ideal for adding texture and dimension to your ponytail.

How it’s done:

1. Gather hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic.
2. Attach curly ponytail extensions if you want extra volume or length.
3. Use a curling wand on any straight sections for a consistent curly texture.
4. Gently tease the curls to enhance volume.
5. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep curls bouncy and full.

 

High ponytail with wand curls

A high ponytail with defined wand curls gives a glam, polished look that’s perfect for a night out. This style is all about volume and tight, glossy curls, creating a lifted, bold ponytail that stands out.

How it’s done:

1. Secure your hair in a high ponytail on the crown of your head.
2. Attach extensions for length, if desired, and make sure they’re curled.
3. Take small sections of the ponytail and curl with a wand, holding each curl in place for a few seconds.
4. Let the curls cool, then gently separate them for added volume.
5. Finish with a shine spray to keep the curls defined and glossy.

 

Cascading texture

For a soft, romantic look, the cascading texture ponytail adds gentle waves and movement to your hair. This style is effortless but impactful, with textured waves flowing down in a natural, carefree way.

How it’s done:

1. Use a texturizing spray on your hair before gathering it into a low or mid ponytail.
2. Attach extensions with a slight wave pattern for added length and fullness.
3. Use a curling iron to create loose waves in the ponytail, keeping the curls soft.
4. Gently separate the curls with your fingers for a natural, textured effect.
5. Finish with a light hairspray for soft hold that allows movement.

 

Locs ponytail

A locs ponytail brings natural texture and statement style, perfect for those looking to add length and volume to their locs. This style has been worn by the likes of Willow Smith, who brings her locs into high, chic ponytails that flaunt the tactile element of the look.

How it’s done:

1. Gather your locs into a high or low ponytail, depending on your desired style, and secure with a strong elastic.
2. Attach loc ponytail extensions if you’re aiming for more length or volume.
3. Wrap a few locs around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic and secure them with pins.
4. Smooth any edges with gel for a polished finish if desired.
5. Set with a light-hold spray for a finished look that lasts.

 

Tousled waves

Tousled waves give your ponytail a relaxed, natural look. Perfect for adding soft volume, this style strikes the right balance between casual and salon-styled, making it ideal for any occasion where you want to look effortlessly elegant.

How it’s done:

1. Spray a texturizer through your hair for grip and volume.
2. Pull your hair into a mid or high ponytail, securing with an elastic.
3. Use a curling iron to create loose, soft waves throughout the ponytail, focusing more on the ends.
4. Shake out the curls with your fingers for a tousled effect.
5. Finish with a flexible-hold hairspray to keep the waves in place without stiffness.

 

Box braided ponytail

The box braided ponytail is a versatile style that combines the structure of box braids with the simplicity of a ponytail. Stars like Gabrielle Union and Zoë Kravitz have rocked this look, bringing a trendy twist to classic braids.

How it’s done:

1. Start by gathering your box braids into a high ponytail and secure with a strong elastic.
2. If you want more volume or length, add braided ponytail extensions.
3. Wrap a few braids around the base of the ponytail to cover the elastic and secure them with pins.
4. Add accessories like beads or cuffs for a personal touch.
5. Finish with a bit of edge control for a polished look around the hairline.

 

Hair wrap-around pony

The wrap-around ponytail gives a sleek, professional finish by concealing the hair tie with a strand of hair. Celebs like Jennifer Lopez often uses this technique for a polished, red-carpet-ready look.

How it’s done:

1. Gather your hair into a high or low ponytail and secure with an elastic.
2. Take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the base to cover the elastic.
3. Pin the end of the wrapped section under the ponytail with a bobby pin.
4. Use a light-hold hairspray to keep the wrap in place.
5. Add a touch of shine serum for a smooth finish.

 

Lauren Ashtyn gives your ponytail life

Longing for that sleek, full, or effortlessly tousled ponytail? A FREE consultation with The Lauren Ashtyn Collection will connect you with hair extensions that make any ponytail look possible. Find your perfect match and give your hair the star treatment it deserves.