The Best Wedding Hair Ponytail Ideas for Modern Nearlyweds
Discover elegant and modern ponytail wedding hair ideas for every style - plus tips for accessories, bridesmaids, and long hair looks
If you thought ponytails were just for the gym, think again. Ponytail wedding hair is fast becoming a bridal beauty favourite - and for good reason.
From sleek and sophisticated to soft and romantic, the wedding hair ponytail is a modern classic that suits all hair types, styles and dress necklines.
Whether you're after a high-impact updo or a laid-back look for a relaxed celebration, there's a wedding ponytail hairstyle for you.
Below, we share inspiration for every kind of bride - and bridesmaid - plus answer the most frequently asked questions about rocking a pony on your big day.
15 Best Ponytail Wedding Hair Ideas for Nearlyweds
Looking for wedding ponytail hair inspiration? Here are some of our favourite looks, by UK wedding hair and makeup artists:
1. Messy Wedding Ponytail with Bow
An artfully undone wedding ponytail is the epitome of cool wedding style - we love how this textured pony by Totally You has been accessorised with an adorable bow. It's also ideal for an engagement party or hen do look.
2. Pearl Detailed Bridal Ponytail
This style by Minxies sits at the nape of the neck with loose curls or waves pulled back gently. It pairs beautifully with a backless dress or boho theme and looks effortless in photos.
3. Low Wedding Ponytail
Sometimes letting the style speak for itself is enough, without any accessories - be inspired by this chic low wedding ponytail by Katy Djokic.
4. Bridesmaid Wedding Ponytail
Ponytails are such a chic wedding hairstyle for bridesmaids - we love this bridesmaid ponytail by Francesca Bridal Hair.
5. Second Look Wedding Ponytail
If you're changing into an wedding after-party dress, why not switch up your hair too? We love this sleek ponytail styled by Bridal Hair by Leanne for the bride's evening reception.
6. Hollywood Waves Ponytail Hair
Hollywood waves are popular wedding hairstyle - but did you know they work in ponytail form too? Just be inspired by this chic low ponytail by Francesca Bridal Hair.
7. Twisted Wedding Ponytail Hair
We love the, ahem, twist on the classic ponytail by Cambridge Hair & Makeup Artists. Twisting sections of hair as they're pulled back into the pony helps to add texture to the look.
8. Bridal Ponytail with Volume
Bridal ponytails are a chic choice for Asian weddings - we love how The Makeup Box has styled this bride's pony with plenty of volume for a dramatic look.
9. Soft Wave Wedding Ponytail
For a super feminine take on the bridal ponytail, style it with loose, long waves, as Ieva Genovesi has done here.
10. Side Ponytail Wedding Hair
Want a unique twist? A side ponytail offers a vintage feel and works especially well with asymmetric or off-the-shoulder gowns - we love this look by Totally You.
Wondering how to do side ponytail wedding hair? Ask your stylist to curl your lengths, sweep them over one shoulder, and secure with bobby pins and a hair tie, camouflaged by a strand of hair or a pretty accessory.
11. Textured Low Wedding Ponytail
Adding texture to a low wedding ponytail gives it a romantic, boho feel. We love how this bride, styled by Katy Djokic, has accessorised with a detailed headband.
12. High Wedding Ponytail
A high ponytail is sleek, powerful, and perfect for showing off statement earrings or a bold eye. Add soft waves or Hollywood curls to keep the look romantic rather than too severe.
Want to channel Ariana Grande on your wedding day? This is the style for you.
13. 60s Style Bridal Ponytail
Add volume at the crown for a glamorous edge - a bridal take on the 60s bouffant. South West Bridal Hair & Makeup Artists have teased the roots and used a hair wrap to hide the base in this stunning style.
14. Beachy Wave Wedding Ponytail
Combine plaits, braids or twists and a ponytail for an intricate, romantic look. A fishtail or French braid woven into the top or side adds texture and interest - ideal for boho or rustic weddings.
15. Wedding Ponytail with Veil
You can definitely rock a ponytail and a wedding veil - just look at this stunning style by Cambridge Hair & Makeup Artists.
Why choose a ponytail for your wedding hair?
Ponytails are more than just practical - they’re incredibly versatile. You can wear them high, low, to the side, curly, wavy, or straight, with or without accessories. Plus, they keep your hair off your face so you can dance all night long without fuss.
Here's why a bridal ponytail hairstyle could be the perfect choice:
- Comfort: Ideal for long days and late nights.
- Style variety: Works with veils, bows, clips, or flowers.
- Timelessness: Despite being trendy, ponytails photograph beautifully and won’t date your wedding album.
Ponytail Hairdos for Long Hair
If you’ve got long hair, the ponytail possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas:
- Bubble ponytails for a playful, modern twist
- Wrapped ponytails for a sleek, polished finish
- Half-up ponytails to show off length and add height
- Twisted ponytails for texture and detail
Tip: Add hair extensions if you need more volume or length to achieve your desired look.
Ponytail Hairstyles for Bridesmaids
Don’t forget your wedding party! Ponytail bridesmaid looks can complement your own style while keeping things cohesive. Opt for matching low ponytails with loose waves or let each bridesmaid customise their own look with variations on the theme. Ponytails are also great for outdoor weddings where wind and weather can wreak havoc on loose styles.
How to Accessorise a Wedding Hair Ponytail
Make your ponytail bridal with the right finishing touches:
- Hair bows - for soft, feminine energy
- Veils - style underneath or above the ponytail
- Pearl pins - to add elegance and sparkle
- Fresh flowers - especially perfect for spring/summer weddings
FAQs About Ponytail Wedding Hair
Got questions about wedding ponytails? We have answers!
Is a ponytail appropriate for a bride?
Absolutely! A ponytail can be as formal or relaxed as you want - it's all in the styling. With the right accessories and finish, a bride hair ponytail can look just as special as a classic chignon or bun.
What kind of ponytail works best with a veil?
A low ponytail or mid-height ponytail works well with veils, especially when the veil is pinned underneath. For a modern look, try a ponytail with a detachable tulle bow.
Can I wear a ponytail if I have short or medium-length hair?
Yes - your stylist can use hair extensions to create the illusion of a longer ponytail, or go for a shorter, chic version like a tucked-under tail or a curled, layered look.
How do I make my ponytail look more bridal?
Focus on volume, texture and accessories. Curl your ends, backcomb the crown, or add a hair wrap and decorative clips for a polished bridal finish.
Ponytail hairstyles are having a major moment - and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’re planning a modern city wedding, a countryside celebration or a beachside bash, there’s a wedding hair ponytail that fits the vibe.
Ready to find the perfect wedding hairstyle for you? Find a wedding hairstylist near you.
