all about ponies, the hair kind.

So I’ve never been big on wearing my hair in a ponytail, you know other than to bed, or exercising.  I have a weird hairline and a funky cowlick in front which always made me kind of feel like ponytails just didn’t really work for me.  But then I went and got bangs cut, (which was it’s own traumatic experience-we won’t go into that now) and at first, just about the only way I liked my bangs, was when I pulled the rest of my hair into a pony tail.  Now, I’m all about the ponies.  Today I’m sharing a few of my favorite tutorials from around the web, and the best products for getting that perfect pony.

I’ve been super inspired by all the different ways you can style such a simple ‘do.  Here are some of my favorites from around the web:

25 awesome ponytail tutorials.

7 best ponytail styles.

15 different cute ponies.

1950’s inspired ponytail. 

1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8.

What I love most about the classic ponytail is how relatively low maintenance it can be, and how great it works with second, third or let’s be real, even fourth day hair…

So let’s talk tools.  Here are a few of my weapons of choice when attacking the elusive perfect ponytail:

A great flexible hairspray.  You all know I’ve got thick, heavy, unruly-by-nature hair.  A great strong but flexible hairspray is a must have.  Double bonus: this baby locks out humidity as well.  Great for us frizzy-haired ladies.

Dry Shampoo.  I have tried about a dozen different kinds of dry shampoo, expensive salon brands and the inexpensive drug-store variety.  This is hands-down my very favorite.  It smells great, doesn’t leave my roots looking gray, doesn’t make my head itch, adds volume at my roots and double bonus, costs about $2.99.  Dry shampoo is a great way to add texture to your ponytail and body to your roots, keeping it safely out of that, slicked to your head realm.

Brushes.  How you want your ponytail finished, sleek or loose and natural will dictate your choice of brush.  For sleek, slicked ponies I recommend a nylon fine bristle brush.  Nothing will get your hair smoother.  For a looser more tousled look, a flat paddled brush does the trick beautifully.

Straightener.  I love a great sleek ponytail.  A great flat iron is a must have for this look.   Plus, I’m just a big believer that every woman should own a high quality flat iron.  Chi is a great brand and a worthy investment piece.  if you’re going to splurge on a hair tool, make it your straightener.

Curling iron.  A medium barrel curling iron is the perfect tool to help you create that classic loose ponytail.  (Hint, second day curls make for fabulous ponytail hair.)  And I’m going to let you in on a little secret.  You don’t need to break the bank on your curling iron.  This conair curling iron which you can pick up for under $20 at Target works beautifully and sets the curl for the whole day.  I’ve been using it for years and it still works like a charm.  Save your pennies for that straightener, this baby has you covered.

Don’t have thick hair?  No fear. My assistant Macy has given me the inside scoop on products for you fine-haired ladies.

If dry shampoo doesn’t quite do it for you, if you need a little more lift at your roots, try a root lifter.  It adds volume and texture right where you need it.  This one also controls frizz and is flexible.

Styling lotion is a great way to prime fine hair and create a great base before the pony.  This one gradually strengthens hair over time as well- added bonus.

Keep calm and pony on.

-xo