26 Slick Back Ponytail Ideas for an Elegant Look

Not many hairstyles retain their elegance like the slick black ponytail. This chic and polished look effortlessly combines sophistication with a touch of edge, making it a go-to choice for various occasions whether formal or casual. 

It doesn’t matter if you’ll be rocking the hairstyle with your natural face or full glam makeup, the slicked-back ponytail is worth the hype. Not only is it easy to achieve but it is also one look that never goes out of style. Since you’re on this page, it’s safe to conclude this hairdo has been on your radar. Read on for insights on how to achieve and maintain this coiffure for a classy look.

The Anatomy of a Slick-Back Ponytail

The beauty of the slick back ponytail lies in its simplicity. It’s a versatile hairstyle that can be adapted to suit different hair textures and lengths. Its key elements include:

Smooth, Sleek Finish

The hallmark of this ponytail is its sleekness. Achieving this smooth finish often involves using a fine-tooth comb or brush to gently gather the hair backward while eliminating any bumps or flyaways. This creates a streamlined look that exudes elegance.

Secure Placement 

The ponytail usually sits at the nape of the neck or slightly higher, depending on personal preference. And when you secure it tightly, you get a refined look that accentuates its sleekness.

Hairstyling Product 

A quality hair gel, pomade, or styling product is essential to keep your hair in place and achieve your desired slickness. In addition, these products help control frizz and maintain a polished look throughout the day.

The Adaptability of the Slick-Back Ponytail

One of the most appealing aspects of the slick-back ponytail is its adaptability. Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, there’s a version of this hairstyle that can work for you.

• Short Hair: Those with shorter hair can create a faux slick back ponytail by using bobby pins to secure the hair in place. This gives the illusion of a sleek ponytail, even with shorter lengths.

• Medium-Length Hair: For medium-length hair, a low ponytail can be sleeked back with the help of styling products and a comb. This variation adds sophistication to a casual look and elegance to a formal ensemble.

• Long Hair: This length lets you experiment with different ponytail placements and styles. For instance, you can opt for a high ponytail or a more relaxed, mid-height variation. Whichever you choose will surely exude grace and refinement.

How to Get the Slick Back Ponytail

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get the gorgeous look:

Prep Hair

Before you start the styling process, make sure you prep your hair by shampooing, conditioning, and drying to help reset your hair texture.

Part the Hair

This is the trickiest part of creating a slicked-back ponytail because you may be confused about which style of part will suit you best. But some ladies forego the part altogether and brush their hair up and away from their faces. Whichever you choose, one thing is sure: you can never go wrong with a slicked-back ponytail. 

Divide into Sections

The next step involves dividing your hair into sections. For effective results, split your hair into three subsections. First, around the face, then divide the remaining hair horizontally at the crown of your head.

Form the Base of the Ponytail

Use a hairspray with a brush to control flyaways, then brush the sections of your hair together at the crown of the head. You can use an elastic to secure the bases correctly for that mini facelift.

Attach Extensions

If you don’t have long hair, you have extensions to your rescue. So if you want a long ponytail, attach the extension securely to the base of your hair. They can be straight or curly; the choice is yours.

Tease the Ponytail

Use a brush or a comb to tease the ponytail for extra volume.

10 Slick Back Ponytail Ideas For You to Rock this Season

Now that you have an idea of how to get the slicked-back ponytail look, here are some style inspos to consider for your next coiffure:

High Slick Back Ponytail

If you want a ponytail but with some real drama, ask your stylist to place it right at the top of your head like Beyonce did at the Met Gala 2015.

Accessorize Your Slick Back Ponytail 

If this coiffure is your go-to hairstyle you can decide to add some spice to your look by wearing a fun accessory like a scrunchie or clip. It’ll add a playful yet stunning vibe to your look.

Add Volume and Texture 

A slicked-back ponytail with lots of volume is just like a mullet—a brisk look in the front but busy at the back. You can achieve this look in two ways: first, get a clip in a ponytail and attach it to the base, or sew in a bundle of curly hair.

Try a Two-Tone Look

If you have dyed hair this look is perfect for you. But if you don’t, get a clip-in extension in any color and attach it to your hair. You’ll look good.

Side-Swept Ponytail

A smooth side-swept ponytail is beautiful and exudes elegance. And if you want to take things up a notch, pair the look with some nice makeup.

Slick Back Braided Ponytail 

Transform the classy ponytail hairstyle into a stunning look by adding a mega-long braid. This look is dramatic yet so chic that it will make heads turn. 

Half Up, Half Down Look

If you do not like the full ponytail, you can consider the half-up half half-down look. It’s as easy as using a scrunchie to tie half of your hair up on the crown of your head.

Slick Back Bubble Ponytail

Wanna make things more interesting for your ponytail? Add volume to the bottom by teasing it slightly before adding a ponytail holder every few inches.

Middle Part Ponytail

Although I find the side part more interesting, going for the middle part is gorgeous as well as it screams clean and elegant.

High and Natural

If you have natural textured hair, wear your ponytail high up your head more. Your natural curls will add volume to support a high pony. And if you want smoother strands use a curl cream through the length of your hair before you tie it up.

Slick Back Ponytail: A Timeless Look For Ladies

The slick-back ponytail remains a timeless hairstyle cherished for its simplicity, elegance, and adaptability. Its ability to seamlessly transition from casual to formal settings while maintaining a refined appearance makes it a favorite among ladies seeking an effortlessly chic look.

Whether you have short, medium, or long hair, mastering the art of the slick-back ponytail allows you to effortlessly exude elegance and sophistication, making it a hairstyle worth embracing time and again.

Need more inspos for this hairstyle? Check out these pictures below: