15 Chic Short Hair Ponytail Ideas

In this guide, we’ll take you through 15 short hair ponytail ideas, showcasing how creative you can get with hair that is cut above the...

  • 6 min read
15 Chic Short Hair Ponytail Ideas

You can try a variety of stylish ponytails even with your bob-length hair!

Finding the right short hair ponytail can be challenging, but it’s far from impossible. If you’ve got a bob-length cut, ponytails are still a versatile and stylish option. From sleek low ponies to voluminous high ones, there’s a variety of ways to play with your look. Add some waves, bangs, or extensions to create your perfect style. In this article, we will show you 15 ideas, proving to you how creative you can get on a cut that is considered shorter. Ready to bring your A-game to your ponytail? Let’s dive right into it.

Types of Ponytails for Short Hair

Speaking of ponytails, a whole lot of variations work amazingly well for short hair, from sleek low ones to voluminous high updos, messy styles, and even braids or curly versions. The trick is to use styling techniques that add texture and volume or to experiment with hair extensions. Let’s explore some inspiring ideas.

1. Voluminous Curly Ponytail

This shoulder-length curled pony adds a bit of glamor with volume at the crown and the curls that fall beautifully and create an illusion of longer hair. Go for it if you have naturally wavy or curly locks. Not enough length for this style? Add clip-in ponytail extensions.

Short Shoulder-Length Hair Ponytail Style

2. Low Wavy Pony

The low ponytail we see here is soft and loose, featuring subtle waves that add dimension to the model’s locks. It can be an effective everyday choice that is both laid-back and polished. The gentle waves add texture, while the low placement makes it perfect for any setting.

Low Wavy Short Ponytail@dollhousedo

3. Sleek Low Knot

Go sleek and polished with a gorg low knot. Hair is neatly pulled back, no strands loose. There are no distracting details, which makes this hairstyle universally flattering for work, dates, weddings, and any other life situation. This is one of the top options if one wants to render neat and firm prettiness to their short pony.

Sleek Low Ponytail Wrapped Around the Base@pamdz_hairstylist

4. Sleek High Ponytail

Cut with precision, the sleek high ponytail in this photo is smooth and polished. The hair is pulled tight and then secured high on the crown, with a section of hair wrapped around the base of the ponytail to cover the hair tie. Don’t forget to style your baby hairs too.

Sleek High Ponytail with Laid Edges@snatched_hair_by_ntando

5. Messy Low Ponytail

Take your cue from this messy ponytail if you want something boho-chic. Delicate waves frame the face, while loose curls add texture on top, wrapping up into a tiny ponytail at the nape of the neck. This can be your go-to choice for some extra activities or casual outings.

Low Wavy Ponytail for Short Hair@chloenbrown

6. High Ponytail with Front Curls

This curly ponytail can bring so much personality to your shorter locks! Almost all curls are pulled high back, except two strands framing the face at the front. They add a playful feeling to this look, don’t they? A casual yet chic option for those with naturally curly hair.

7. Slicked-Back High Ponytail

Go for the slicked-back high ponytail for that bold and glam vibe. It’s all about sleek lines, smooth edges, and a clean finish. It’s better fitted to short hair because, while it keeps everything neat and tidy, it’s still a strong fashion statement.

Slicked-Back High Ponytail@harryjoshhair

8. Curled Low Ponytail

Such loose highlighted curls cascading down in the ponytail are great for shoulder-length locks. You will need a lightweight mousse or a curl-enhancing cream to define each curl and several bobby pins to recreate this wedding updo.

Voluminous Curled Low Ponytail@victoriahairdo

9. High Ponytail with Curled Bangs

The following hairstyle has curled face-framing strands and loose curls gathered into a high ponytail. If you want a glamorous big ponytail for your shorter hair – go for this one. And it works wonders on shoulder-length cuts, too.

Wavy High Ponytail with Bangs@debrikathestylist

10. High Ponytail with a Hair Clip

This high ponytail with waves and a clip looks properly balanced. Waves add volume and texture to the hair, whereas a metal barrette serves as a stylish accessory. It is great for both casual wear and semi-formal events.

Short Hair High Ponytail with a Barrette@oribe

11. Low Knot with a Floral Accent

Want to add some hair accessories to complete the look? This sleek low ponytail gets an extra dose of sophistication thanks to the tucking of a floral accessory into the side. All hair must be pulled back smoothly and tied into a knot, and then you will be adding a delicate floral accent that brings the overall feel to the next level. This style is best for very formal events or anytime you want to appear refined and polished.

Voluminous Ponytail with Waves@ika_mooi

12. Braided Curly Ponytail

If you’re a proud owner of natural curls, you’ll love this one. This braided black ponytail marries texture with a structured twist. Four braids run down the scalp, merging into a full, curly ponytail. A sleek braid mixed with bouncy curls equates to a playful effect that can add flair to any occasion.

Braided Curly Ponytail with Extensions@realshear

13. Messy Twisted Low Pony

If you have bob-length hair, this twisted easy messy ponytail is for you. The hair is curled for texture, tied into a low ponytail, and flipped (check out the video). This hairstyle works perfectly for the second-day hair too!

14. High Ponytail with Flipped Ends

Sleek and glam, this high ponytail has flipped ends for that retro vibe. So taut and smooth on top versus the playful curl at the end, it’s an elegant yet fun option for most occasions.

Sleek High Ponytail with Flipped Ends@finessedbyro

15. Low Ponytail with Loose Curls

What a stunning look with a touch of extra oomph! Natural waves give it texture and movement, while a few loose curls outline the face. Pretty understated yet stylish, this updo will work for pretty much any event, from a laid-back brunch with friends to a more polished evening gathering.

Shoulder-Length Hair in a Low Ponytail@bahar_makeup_hair

Whether your hair is super short, cut around your chin, or a lob-length, there are many ways to style a ponytail for it. Be sleek and polished or messy and full – the ideas shown above will help drive home versatility and creativity for any occasion. Go ultra-minimal with a low pony or add in some extensions for some extra length, your short hair can look just as fabulous in a pony. Have fun with these styles; mix and match braids, waves, or whatever accessory you like to find your perfect ponytail that will complement your shorter locks.

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