When it comes to style and comfort all in one, braids and ponytails both score pretty high on our style scale. Braids are always on-trend, while ponytails can look as chic or as relaxed as you choose—so there’s no surprise that braided ponytail hairstyles would be the best of both worlds. Low maintenance and effortlessly stylish, you can never go wrong with one with one of these creative looks.
Whether you’re looking for a protective style for your curly or kinky hair, or you want a fun way to bring texture to your straight or wavy locs, ponytail braids are the way to go. Check out our favorite ponytail braids to gather some inspo for your next style.
1. High Braided Ponytail
Classic, sleek, and always a beauty statement—a long, single braid at the crown of your head (seen here on Kerry Washington) takes the classic ponytail to the next level. Brush your hair sleek and taut to give it a polished look, and before braiding the length of the ponytail, wrap a braid around the base for extra drama.
2. Fishtail Braid
Yes, the beloved fishtail braids of your youth are trending again! Since this is one of the more carefree braid options, embrace flyaways and a loose ponytail for the effortless, cool girl look, like Justine Skye.
3. Microbraids With Low Pony
For those in search of a romantic style, Zoe Kravitz nailed it with her tiny microbraid-ponytail combo. Throw your braids in a low ponytail and add in a few pearl accessories.
4. Sleek Braided Updo
This updo hairstyle is a classic amongst Black women and the natural hair community. With sleek edges and careful braids meeting at the crown of your head, this braided ponytail look on Sydelle Noel is great when you’re ready to look chic without having to style your hair everyday.
5. Pigtail Braids
Hey, pigtails are ponytails too—as proven here by Tessa Thompson. While you’re searching for your next braided ponytail style, don’t forget about sleek, long, braided pigtails. Play with manicured baby hair and playful fly-aways to really make a statement.
6. Long Cornrows Into a Ponytail
It takes a bit of confidence to pull off knee-length cornrows (do you, sis!) but this fashion-forward style on Tracee Ellis Ross totally agrees looks good at any length. Gather your straight backs into a nice loose ponytail and voila, runway ready.
7. Low Braided Ponytail With Barrettes
A sleek, low, braided ponytail is always an elegant choice (and Janelle Monae agrees). Make it a bit more playful by adding oversized barrettes to your temple and down the length of the braid.
8. Dutch Braided Ponytail
Issa Rae’s gorgeous style trumps your average side braid by adding some drama right from the crown. It begins with an oversized Dutch braid that faces outward (French braids tend to lay flat), and features a single braid woven into the length of the Dutch braid.
9. Cornrows With Half Ponytail
An elegant and protective style, this half pony on Gia Peppers is great for when you’re ready to try something new. The narrowly parted cornrows in the front look stunning with a dramatic ponytail at the crown. Pro tip: Opt for a textured ponytail for a more natural look against the cornrows.
10. Sleek Middle Part
The high ponytail gets a lot of praise, but the sleek, low ponytail is also a more relaxed way to style a long braid. Rock it with a middle part, like Alicia Keys, for a chic look.
11. Single Side Braid
If you’re new to braids or just want to add a subtle flair to your standard ponytail, a single side braid or mini French braid is the way to go—as seen here on Rihanna. It’s still your beloved ponytail, now with a touch of detail to showcase your personal style.
12. Jumbo Braided Ponytail
Nothing says, “I’m here” quite like Yara Shahidi’s waist-length braided ponytail at the crown of the head. Adding two or three large textured braids to the length of your ponytail adds a bit of creativity that makes it great for a holiday or special occasion.
13. Center Braids
Sometimes, less is more. Three skinny cornrows in the center of your hair is all you need to give some edge to an otherwise simple hairstyle. Want to kick it up a notch? Do as Regina King does and add statement earrings to complete the look.
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