9 Curly Ponytail Hairstyles for Black Women

I remember rushing to get ready one morning, my curls having a mind of their own. I had a big meeting and needed to look put-together, but I was out of time. In a moment of panic, I gathered my hair up, smoothed my edges, and created a high puff ponytail. It looked chic, took five minutes, and I felt instantly confident. That day, I truly appreciated the power of a simple, beautiful ponytail.

The curly ponytail is a go-to for a reason. It is one of the most versatile and stylish options available. This guide gives you nine curly ponytail hairstyles for Black women that are perfect for any occasion. These styles protect your natural texture while letting your beautiful curls be the main attraction.

Prepping Your Hair for the Perfect Ponytail

Before we get to the styles, let’s talk about prep. A great ponytail starts with healthy, happy hair. I always make sure my hair is well-moisturized before styling. This simple step prevents frizz and makes the whole process so much smoother.

Start with clean, conditioned, and detangled hair. Apply a good leave-in conditioner to lock in moisture. This gives your curls the hydration they need to pop. Also, working with slightly damp hair can make it easier to gather and smooth into a ponytail.

9 Must-Try Curly Ponytail Hairstyles for Black Women

Here are nine of my favorite styles. I have tried each one and can tell you they are all winners. You will find something here whether your hair is short, long, coily, or loosely curled.

1. The Classic High Puff Ponytail

The high puff is an iconic look. It is bold, beautiful, and celebrates natural volume. I love this style because it gets my hair up and out of my face while still making a statement. It is a true crown that you can wear with pride.

To get this look, you first need to gather your hair toward the crown of your head. Use a large, stretchy hair tie or even a shoelace for a snug but gentle hold. After your hair is secured, you can use a pick to fluff your curls for maximum volume. This is one of the easiest curly ponytail hairstyles for Black women to master.

2. The Sleek Low Ponytail with Curly Ends

This style offers a beautiful contrast between sleek roots and voluminous curls. It is perfect for a professional setting or a fancy night out. The key is getting the front super smooth.

I start by applying a strong-hold gel, like Eco Styler, to my damp hair. Then, I use a boar bristle brush to smooth my hair down into a low ponytail at the nape of my neck. My personal trick is to tie a silk scarf around my head for about 15 minutes after styling. This sets the hair and gives it a flawless, flat finish. The American Academy of Dermatology Association suggests avoiding pulling hair too tightly to prevent breakage, so be gentle when brushing.

3. The Side-Swept Curly Ponytail

A side ponytail adds a touch of playful elegance. It frames the face beautifully and works well with all hair lengths. I find this style feels a bit more romantic and soft compared to a centered ponytail.

To create it, simply gather your hair to one side. You can position it low, just behind your ear, or a bit higher. Secure it with a hair tie. For an extra touch, you can take a small section of your curls and wrap it around the base of the ponytail to hide the elastic. Secure the wrapped section with a bobby pin.

4. The Pineapple Ponytail

The “pineapple” is a lifesaver for preserving curls overnight. But it is also a stylish, casual look for the daytime. It piles your curls right on top of your head, which minimizes frizz and protects your curl pattern.

This is probably the quickest style on the list. Just flip your head forward and gather all your hair into a very high, loose ponytail on top of your head. The curls will spill forward over your forehead like the leaves of a pineapple. It is a fun and functional look that showcases your texture.

5. The Half-Up, Half-Down Curly Ponytail

When you want the best of both worlds, this style delivers. It gives you the neatness of a ponytail while still showing off the length and volume of your curls. I often choose this style when my hair is on day three or four and the top needs a little taming.

Section off the top half of your hair from ear to ear. Smooth this section back and secure it into a ponytail. You can place it high for a dramatic look or lower for a more casual feel. Let the rest of your beautiful curls flow freely. This is one of the most popular curly ponytail hairstyles for Black women for its simplicity.

6. The Braided Crown with a Curly Ponytail

Adding braids to your ponytail elevates the entire look. A braided crown makes a simple ponytail feel intricate and special. This is a great choice for weddings, birthdays, or any event where you want to feel a little extra glamorous.

You can create one or two cornrows or flat twists going back from your hairline. Braid them until you reach the point where you want your ponytail to sit. Then, gather the ends of the braids along with the rest of your hair into a ponytail. The result is a stunning mix of textures.

7. The Bubble Ponytail with Curls

The bubble ponytail is a fun, modern twist on the classic. It is a bit more playful and adds visual interest to your hair. It works best on longer hair but can be adapted for medium lengths too.

Start by creating a standard ponytail. Then, place additional hair ties down the length of the ponytail every few inches. Gently pull apart each section between the ties to create a round “bubble” shape. Leave the very ends of your hair out in their natural curly state for a cute finish.

8. The Faux Locs Curly Ponytail

If you want to try a new texture without a long-term commitment, a faux locs ponytail is a fantastic option. You can buy pre-made ponytails with curly faux locs that are easy to install. I’ve used these for vacations, and they are a great protective style.

First, slick your natural hair into a tight, small bun. Then, attach the faux locs ponytail using the built-in clips or drawstring. Make sure it is secure. This gives you a completely new look in minutes and is a protective choice for your natural curls.

9. The Ponytail with a Curly Fringe

Adding a bang or fringe completely changes the vibe of a ponytail. A curly fringe softens the look and draws attention to your eyes. I’ve cut my own curly bangs before, and it is a great way to refresh your style without losing length.

When pulling your hair back, leave out a section of curls at the front to act as your bangs. You can style your ponytail high, low, or to the side. After your pony is secure, arrange your fringe as you like. You can use a little bit of product to define the curls in your bangs.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

How do you make a curly ponytail look good?

To make a curly ponytail look good, start with moisturized, detangled hair. Use a good gel or edge control for a smooth base. Fluff your curls after securing the ponytail to add volume and shape. A decorative scrunchie or wrapping hair around the base can also elevate the style.

How do you get a slick ponytail with curly hair?

For a slick ponytail, work with damp hair. Apply a strong-hold gel and use a boar bristle brush to smooth your hair back tightly. After securing the ponytail, tie a silk or satin scarf around your hairline for 15-20 minutes to set the style and eliminate any flyaways.

Do ponytails damage curly hair?

Ponytails can cause damage if they are too tight or worn constantly. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, this can lead to traction alopecia. To avoid this, use gentle hair ties like scrunchies, vary your ponytail placement, and never sleep in a tight ponytail.

How can I add volume to my curly ponytail?

To add volume, use a hair pick to gently fluff the curls in your ponytail, lifting at the roots. You can also try creating two ponytails one on top of the other to give the illusion of more fullness and length. Using a texturizing spray on your curls can also help.