In this article
- What are braided ponytail hairstyles?
- Top 1. High braided ponytail
- Top 2. Low braided ponytail with stitch weave
- Top 3. Feed in braids ponytail
- Top 4. Pigtail pony braids
- Top 5. Braided ponytail African with beads
- Top 6. Cornrow braided ponytail
- Top 7. Fishtail braid ponytail
- Top 8. Box braids ponytail
- Top 9. Stitch braids ponytail
- Top 10. Two ponytail braids with cornrows
- Top 11. Long braided ponytail
- Top 12. Jumbo braids in a ponytail
- Top 13. High braided ponytail weave
- Top 14. Classic braided up ponytail
- Top 15. Mohawk braid pony
- Top 16. Three-dimensional braided ponytail
- Top 17. Colored braided ponytail
- Opting for a braided up ponytail is the perfect way
- FAQs
There are so many ways to braid your hair in 2025, depending on the style you want to pull off. But keeping things relatively simple with a ponytail can work well, as this is a protective style that can really help to keep your hair in great shape.
Here, we reveal 17 braided ponytail hairstyles that are glamorous and gorgeous in equal measure. Just be sure to speak to a talented braider to do these signature styles the justice they deserve.
What are braided ponytail hairstyles?
Braided ponytail hairstyles are a beautiful fusion of function and flair where classic braids meet the timeless ponytail. This style involves weaving sections of hair into braids, then gathering them into a ponytail, either high, low, or even to the side.
In 2025, braided ponytails have taken over both casual streetwear and formal looks, praised for their versatility, longevity, and bold aesthetics. Here are 17 best braided ponytail hairstyles to make you different.
Top 1. High braided ponytail
Upright cornrows finished with curly ends and gathered into a high ponytail offer a brilliant fusion of elegance and boldness. The neatly braided cornrows create a clean scalp appearance, while the voluminous, curly ends add movement and texture.
Complete the ensemble by wrapping a colorful hair band or stylish metallic accessory around the ponytail base for an extra dose of sophistication and charm. It is one of the best braided ponytail hairstyles for black hair.
Top 2. Low braided ponytail with stitch weave
Transitioning from high drama to subtle chicness, the low braided ponytail adorned with stitch weaving creates a refined and delicate statement. This style sits gracefully at the nape and highlights intricate stitch patterns along each side of the head. Micro braids lend themselves wonderfully to this look and craft meticulous detailing that elevates the overall hairstyle.
Top 3. Feed in braids ponytail
Feed-in braids are renowned for their impeccable precision, which requires a skilled braider’s finesse to achieve the distinctive patterns they are known for. The meticulous weaving technique creates a natural appearance by increasing braid thickness and length as it moves backward. For a playful yet stylish twist, position your feed-in ponytail slightly off-center or pinned to one side.
Top 4. Pigtail pony braids
Braided pigtails are a dynamic way to make a bold, youthful statement, and they’re not exclusively for younger wearers. Amplify the charm by opting for jumbo-sized braids that command attention, styled into two stunning ponytails placed symmetrically on either side of your head. This head-turning look balances whimsical fun with high fashion and offers an exciting alternative to traditional single ponytails.
Top 5. Braided ponytail African with beads
Braided ponytails are extremely popular across the African continent, from west to east. Opt for braided bangs that hang down to your eye line and finish them with beads or gems that complete the exotic look.
Top 6. Cornrow braided ponytail
Cornrows are a signature look that have been hugely popular since the 1990s. Feed them from the front to the back and tie them in the center of your head in a pony for a contemporary twist on this classic style.
Top 7. Fishtail braid ponytail
Creating the perfect fishtail isn’t a quick process, but it’s worth the effort when it pays off. Make sure your braider keeps them tight, using strong elastic where possible, and finish them in a tight pony in the center.
Top 8. Box braids ponytail
Box braids are perhaps the number one look in 2025, trending on TikTok and other social media platforms. This protective hairstyle is a hit with younger women, but box braids are also super versatile and can be adapted in so many ways, be it with braids or butterfly patterns, for example.
Top 9. Stitch braids ponytail
Stitch braids are a brilliant choice if you’re looking for an intricate style. Use micro braids from the front and weave them into a tight, high pony at the back for an effortlessly chic look.
Top 10. Two ponytail braids with cornrows
You can twist your cornrows into two distinct ponytails at the back for a superstar look. Consider running the braids all the way down your back to truly showcase your style.
Top 11. Long braided ponytail
The length of your braids matters and is a big deal for many women. While many looks do well at shoulder length, consider running braids past your shoulders for something a little different. You can bunch the pony low to help with the direction of the braids down your back.
Top 12. Jumbo braids in a ponytail
Jumbo braids make a statement and are quick and easy to work with. They’re less intricate than micro braids, offering you the chance to wear them without much tinkering. Lock your jumbo braids into a side pony for a contemporary look.
Top 13. High braided ponytail weave
A stylish weave perfectly mimics natural hair texture and adds something flashy to a protective style. We recommend pinning the ponytail high for a particularly cute finish.
Top 14. Classic braided up ponytail
Looking for a no-frills braided ponytail hairstyle for black hair? Run simple braids to the back and center of your head and bunch them in a scrunchie. This is an easy, budget-friendly style that will protect your hair in the heat of the summer.
Top 15. Mohawk braid pony
From simple to daring, a mohawk braid ponytail is an edgy hairstyle that is a contemporary take on a hairstyle that emerged in the 1970s. Mid-sized braids work well for the mohawk pony, and you can supplement them with weaved micro braids at either side.
Top 16. Three-dimensional braided ponytail
Use jumbo, 3D braids and tie them into a high, central pony for an incredibly refreshing look. You can then slick back the front of your hair, holding it in place with gel or wax to finish off this timeless look.
Top 17. Colored braided ponytail
A splash of color is one of the best ways to elevate any of the styles introduced thus far. We love a streak of red in any sleek braided ponytail, but any color can work well, depending on the style you’re going for.Conclusion
Opting for a braided up ponytail is the perfect way
to make a statement. This look is timeless and chic, but braided ponytails are also a protective style that keep your hair in great shape, even when it;s hot and humid out.
Just remember to protect your braids at night by wrapping your hair, as you don’t want to be impacted by excess friction from your pillow. We also advise you to consult a talented braider to help you achieve any of these braided ponytail hairstyles, so you can achieve a look that will turn heads for all the right reasons.
FAQs
Q1: Which are the best braided ponytail hairstyles for black hair?
For black hair, styles like high feed-in braided ponytails, stitch braids ponytails, and box braids gathered into a sleek pony work beautifully. These hairstyles offer elegance, versatility, and protection, allowing creativity with accessories, length, and volume.
Q2: What braids make you look younger?
Braids that frame the face softly, such as loose side braids, messy fishtails, halo braids, or braided ponytails with curly ends, create a youthful appearance. They add volume and soften facial features.
Q3: What is the most protective hairstyle for black hair?
The most protective hairstyles for black hair include knotless box braids, cornrows, Senegalese twists, and crochet braids. Of these, knotless braids are gentle, reducing tension on the scalp and promoting overall hair health.
Q4: When should you stop wearing braids?
You should pause or stop wearing braids if you notice signs of hair stress, such as thinning edges, hair breakage, persistent scalp irritation, or discomfort. Your scalp’s health and comfort should guide the duration and frequency of braided styles.
Q5: Can braids help your hair grow?
While braids don't directly accelerate hair growth, they can reduce breakage and damage caused by frequent styling, combing, and exposure. By providing protection, braids allow hair to retain length better, indirectly aiding in overall growth and length retention.
Q6: How long should you let your hair breathe between braids?
Ideally, allow your hair and scalp to rest for at least one to two weeks between braided styles. This break helps restore scalp health, reduces tension damage, and gives you a chance to deeply condition and strengthen your hair before the next installation.
