Learn how to create a wavy ponytail that looks effortless but isn’t. This wavy hair ponytail uses brushed-out S-waves to soften the ends and add shape through the crown, without losing control. Flirty without trying too hard, this style delivers movement without chaos. Think Hollywood waves, pulled back into a mid-length ponytail for a more wearable finish.
Follow the step-by-step guide below to recreate the wavy ponytail at home. Easy to do, easy to wear and designed to hold from morning through to evening.
SHOP THE LOOK
GHD CURLY EVER AFTER - CURL HOLD SPRAY
NEW GHD CHRONOS CURVE GRAND TONG (32MM BARREL) FOR BIG VOLUMINOUS CURLS
GHD THE ALL-ROUNDER - PADDLE BRUSH
GHD THE DRESSER - OVAL DRESSING BRUSH
STEP-BY-STEPS
PREP & HEAT PROTECTION
SECTION THE HAIR
CURL THE HAIR
DRESS OUT THE WAVES
CREATE THE PONYTAIL
CREATE FACE FRAMING
SECURE AND REFINE
FINAL LOOK
TOP TIPS TO REFINE THE FINISH
- Create the waves before securing the ponytail. This gives you movement closer to the base of the ponytail.
- A mid-height ponytail sits best for this look, keeping proportions balanced and modern.
- Brushing through the curls before securing prevents the finish from looking overworked.
- Leave face-framing pieces out softens the look and adds movement around the face.
- Leave face-framing pieces out softens the look and adds movement around the face.
- Less product goes further. The finish should feel controlled, not coated.
WHO THIS STYLE WORKS BEST FOR
This wavy ponytail works best on medium to long hair, where the waves have room to move through the lengths.
It suits straight or naturally wavy textures, especially when refined with a curling wand for consistency around the face and ends.
If you are looking for a ponytail that feels elevated without tipping into formal, confident without becoming stiff – this style sits comfortably in that space.
COMMON STYLING QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY OUR EXPERT GRANT WILLIAMS
Q: Is this wavy ponytail better suited to long hair?
Yes. The look relies on length to create movement through the ponytail, particularly once the waves are brushed out. Medium lengths work too, with slightly less drop through the ends.
Q: Can it work on naturally wavy hair?
Yes. Refine the waves with a curling wand to keep them consistent, especially around the face and ends, so the natural texture reads as intentional rather than uneven.
Q: Should the wavy ponytail be high or low?
Mid-height sits best. Positioning it around the centre of the head keeps the proportions balanced and the look modern. High or low both work, but mid keeps that soft, undone feel.
Q: How do you make a ponytail look fuller?
Brush the waves out before securing and gently tease the ponytail once it is up. Leaving a face-framing piece loose and curling it adds the impression of more volume without backcombing the whole length.