Start with dry hair. Apply a heat protection spray designed for straightening and smoothing, ghd Straight On and mist generously through the roots and lengths.
GET THE LOOK
Bubble Braids: How To Do A Bubble Braid
Create a bubble braid that pairs a sleek root with soft, rounded sections that pop with volume and movement. This bubble ponytail shapes the hair into defined, structured sections through the lengths, giving the classic ponytail a playful edge with just the right amount of mischief.
Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to do bubble braids, with styles that last all day. Bright, lively and full of character, the bubble braid ponytail channels confident energy that lifts everything around it.
SHOP THE LOOK
GHD STRAIGHT ON - STRAIGHT & SMOOTH SPRAY
NEW & IMPROVED GHD GLIDE+ HAIR STRAIGHTENER HOT BRUSH
GHD PERFECT ENDING - FINAL FIX HAIRSPRAY 400ML
GHD THE DRESSER - OVAL DRESSING BRUSH
STEP-BY-STEPS
PREP & HEAT PROTECTION
STEP 2.
SMOOTH THE HAIR BACK
SECURE THE PONYTAIL
Gather the hair into a ponytail positioned at the centre of the head. Secure with a strong hair tie. Keep the base sleek and controlled, brushing as needed to maintain a clean finish.
WRAP THE PONYTAIL BASE
Take a small section of hair from underneath the ponytail. Wrap it around the base several times to conceal the hair tie, then secure vertically with a bobby pin.
CREATE THE BUBBLES
Using mini elastics, secure the first section of the ponytail a short distance below the base. Gently pull the hair between the elastics outward to form a rounded bubble. Repeat down the ponytail to create each section.
SET AND FINISH
Once the bubbles are formed, mist ghd Perfect Ending lightly over the ponytail. Focus on hold rather than stiffness. For longer-lasting bubbles, use stronger elastics and carefully shape each section before finishing.
STEP 7.
FINAL LOOK
TOP TIPS TO REFINE THE FINISH
- Keep the base sleek – avoid overloading the ponytail with product.
- Pull each bubble out gently and evenly for a rounded, consistent shape.
- Make the final bubble slightly smaller for balance.
- Set the style at the end, rather than spraying between each step.
- Use your hands rather than a brush to adjust bubbles.
- For added volume, lightly backcomb each bubble from the underside before shaping.
- Ensure elastics are secure but not overly tight to avoid dents in the hair.
WHO THIS STYLE WORKS BEST FOR
The bubble braid works best on medium to long hair lengths, where there is enough length to create clear separation between each bubble. Straight to lightly textured hair gives the cleanest result, as the contrast between the smooth base and the rounded bubbles remains sharp and defined.
This style suits anyone drawn to structure and shape. Ideal for events, evenings or elevated everyday styling, the look prioritises shine and polish. Extensions can be used to add length or fullness while maintaining a controlled finish.
COMMON STYLING QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT GRANT WILLIAMS
Is this a bubble braid or a bubble ponytail?
This style is most accurately described as a bubble braid, as the ponytail is divided into structured sections that create the signature bubble effect. While the terms are often used interchangeably, ‘bubble braid’ is the more widely recognised name.
Can a bubble braid be worn with hair extensions?
Yes. The bubble braid works well with ponytail or clip-in hair extensions, provided they are securely blended into the base. Extensions can help add length and fullness to each bubble.
Should I brush the bubbles after styling?
No. Brushing will disrupt the shape. Always use your hands to pull and adjust each section.
How can I make the bubbles braids last longer?
Use strong elastics and shape each bubble carefully. Finish with a flexible-hold spray like Perfect Ending and avoid touching the ponytail once set.