Goodbye, Slicked-Back Bun—This Is the Effortless Hairstyle I'll Be Rocking All Winter.

      One detail you should know about me is my extreme laziness regarding my hair. You’ll never find me waking up early to wash and blow-dry it. Instead, I prefer the dry shampoo method and quickly putting it up in an updo. Over the past few years, I've made a slicked-back bun my signature style. That was until I discovered just how good a simple ponytail can look.

      If you take a glance at Instagram lately, you'll see that trendsetters are embracing this chic updo. Don’t misunderstand me; a bun remains incredibly elegant, but a ponytail exudes an effortlessly cool vibe, particularly when styled with a chunky knit and a funnel-neck jacket (you know what I mean). The best part about a ponytail (aside from its ease of styling)? Its versatility. Whether you prefer a side part, a middle part, a high ponytail, a low ponytail, a bold accessory, or a slicked-back appearance, there’s an option for everyone. Below, I’ve compiled what I believe to be the best ponytail styles to try this winter, inspired by some of the most fashionable individuals online. These winter hairstyles are simple to replicate and will have you looking polished and put-together in no time.

      **11 Best Ponytail Ideas 2025**

      1. **Statement Scrunchie**

      The quickest way to elevate your ponytail? A standout scrunchie. This season, metal details are trending for a chic look.

      *Get the Look:*

       H&M

       Shiny-Detail Hair Elastic

       A stylish yet affordable option from H&M.

      2. **Slicked-Back Ponytail**

      While the slicked-back bun has been fashionable for years, this winter, I’m leaning towards the ultra-cool slicked-back ponytail. It’s the ideal style for those in-between hair wash days.

      *Get the Look:*

       JVN Hair

       Perfect Stylefix Stick

       This hair wax comes in a convenient stick format, simplifying slicked-back styles.

      3. **Half-Up Ponytail**

      If you’re hesitant to fully commit to a ponytail, try this half-up, half-down look. Add some gentle waves and let a few strands frame your face for a chic finish.

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       GHD

       Chronos Curve Grand Tong

       My go-to curling wand for voluminous, natural-looking waves.

      4. **Plaited Ponytail**

      For a polished appearance, I adore a plaited ponytail. This trend can be achieved quickly and always makes me feel put-together.

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       Slip

       Pure Silk Skinny Scrunchie Ornament

       I prefer using small silk scrunchies to secure my braid, as they’re gentler on the hair.

      5. **Short Ponytail**

      There’s a common myth that ponytails only suit long hair. However, as shown above, whether you have a micro bob, a lob, or anything in between, a short ponytail can be just as stylish.

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       Keep the ends of your short hair healthy and shiny with a nourishing hair oil, like this one from Olaplex.

      6. **Tousled Waves**

      To create that perfectly tousled, "I woke up like this" ponytail, the trick is to incorporate soft, loose waves at the ends of your hair.

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       If you prefer not to spend hours styling, I recommend this waving tool from Hershesons, which creates a tousled effect at the touch of a button.

      7. **Middle Parting**

      Another easy way to make your ponytail look polished is by opting for a sharp middle part. I like to use the end of a comb to achieve my parting before securing my ponytail.

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       GHD

       The Sectioner Tail Hair Comb

       The perfect tool for sectioning hair.

      8. **Bow Accessories**

      Looking for a festive updo? Go for a sleek ponytail secured with a satin bow.

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       H&M

       Bow-Detail Hair Elastic

      9. **Oversized Scrunchie**

      For the maximalists among us, an oversized scrunchie is the way to go. Extra points if it matches your outfit.

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       & Other Stories

       Layered Tulle Scrunchie

       My go-to scrunchie for the festive season.

      10. **Undone Ponytail**

      While those perfectly “undone” hairstyles might seem time-consuming, a casual ponytail is quite easy. My best advice would be to apply some texturizing spray to the ends of your hair and let a few strands fall freely around your face.

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       Living Proof