How to: Half Up Half Down Ponytail

When you are looking at 90’s hairstyles that have made a massive come back, this is it. The hairdo that I am, of course, talking about is the adorable half up ponytail. This look has been popular again by the lovely Ariana Grande as she has worn it at nearly every event since she hit the big time in her pop career. It is a fun mix between a simple high ponytail and a pompadour style it is feminine and you can give it a bit of your own sass. If barbie had a rebellious streak you could imagine her going for this style. Is it any wonder why we and Ariana love it? Keep reading this step by step guide to learn how to create this look for yourself.

What you need to start with

This look turns out looking incredible and it is really easy to do by yourself at home. The process of making it is not hard but in involves a lot of parting and backcombing so second dat hair is actually a great thing. This natural oils from your hair will protect it from getting as damaged. If you like the ends of your hair curled do it up in a ponytail and curl, otherwise straighten the lower third of your hair.

Create your parting

First of all we are going to be working on your crown so use your fishtail comb to section your hair just above your ears. Now divide your crown section in half. By focusing in one quarter of your hair will make your styling easier.  If you want your backcombing to be more subtle or you have thicker hair then you may want to divide your quarter into rows before you old each section up and backcomb the two inches closest to your head.

Smoothing back your crown

This section is what it says on the tin. Once you have backcombed both of your crown sections you will look a little crazy so now we are going to turn that into a full bodied bit of fabulous. This will involve gently (emphasis on the word gently) smoothing over the top layer of your hair with a narrow toothed comb or brush. The end result should look clean and pompadour like in appearance. Secure this section with a clear elastic hair tie.

Adding your pomp

Tying up your hair may cause you to temporarily loose some of your volume but it is all good we are about to remedy it. Loosen the hair along the very top and tug it forwards a little to recreate the front bit of volume. Now that we have volume at the front of our style, it is only fitting that we add a little at the back too. Backcombing your ponytail will just get messy so steal Ariana’s trick and add a ponytail extension, check out our recently launched Straight Up Wrap Around Ponytail.

If there isn’t a separated section at the side take a small section from underneath and wrap it around the hair tie and the top of your extensions to hide them and pin it. To give your style a softer finish pull out a few strands around your temples and ears then add some hairspray and your are done!