In the world of hair and hairstyling, the high ponytail is not only a timeless classic, but also a sign of elegance and power. One of the most influential hairstylists in the entertainment industry, Chris Appleton, has revealed a method that anyone can use to create this iconic look. Appleton, known for his work with celebrities like Ariana Grande, has shared a simple yet effective trick for creating a full, high ponytail that exudes both glamour and professionalism. You can make a classy statement in no time when you also use the tips from our founder and catwalk hairstylist Andy Uffels.
Appleton's approach to the high ponytail focuses on placement and technique to "bundle" the hair in a way that adds both volume and height. The key to success is proper prep and product selection that will give a sleek, shiny finish without weighing the hair down.
A lightweight volume cream (our Supernatural thickening cream ) can be applied to the roots of the hair to add volume from the ground up. Tip : spray into towel-dried hair and use a soft brush and blow dryer to pre-brush the hair in the right direction while it dries. This will make it easier to tie the ponytail later. Once the hair is dry, you can use a little hairspray and your brush to brush back in the direction of the ponytail.
Next, it is crucial to carefully and precisely brush the hair to 1 point and secure it at the highest point of the head, making sure there are no lumps or loose hairs. This can be a bit tricky at first, but the right brush can do wonders. Tip: Use our Flat Brush for this. This is the most effective way to achieve a tight ponytail. This brush is also used by catwalk hairstylists.
Appleton's advice is to use a thin hairband or elastic that is tight enough to hold your hair in place all day without causing a headache. These work better than thick elastics. Tip: during the catwalk shows, Andy always uses thin cotton elastics that are also stretchable. The advantage of these is that they are really tight around your hair, without damaging your hair. You can buy these at the haberdashery.
And then…for extra volume, thickness and length, Appleton recommends using extensions that match your natural hair color. Note that these are then wrapped around the elastic and secured with bobby pins. This gives you a seamless transition with your own hair in a natural way and your ponytail will look beautiful and full in no time.
Tip: Andy indicates that using extensions really completes this look. Always use extensions of real hair (not fake hair) because you can see the difference immediately and it remains easy to comb. In addition, real hair stays in place better. And you want it to look as natural as possible. You can often buy these extensions at the toko for reasonable prices.
The secret to the perfect high ponytail also lies in the finishing touches. Tip: Appleton suggests wrapping a small section of your own hair around the elastic to hide the elastic and give it a polished look. This section can be secured with bobby pins, hidden underneath the ponytail. A light mist of a soft hairspray like Hold It There Hairspray will help keep that section and ponytail sleek and shiny all day long.
Appleton’s method is not only a way to create a stylish high ponytail, but also an expression of creativity and personal style. By playing with the height, thickness, and texture of your ponytail, you can create a look that suits your personality and the occasion. Whether it’s a day at the office, a night out, or a special event, Appleton’s high ponytail is a versatile and stylish choice that’s easy to create and can make a strong impression.
This high ponytail 'trick' is an accessible way to add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your everyday look. It's also a way to emphasize your individuality. With the right techniques, a good brush and products, you can master the art of the perfect ponytail with a little practice.
Good luck!
