Your Guide to Creating 2025’s Most Playful Hair Trend
Want to add a fun twist to your everyday ponytail? The bubble ponytail is taking the beauty world by storm, and for good reason! This playful yet sophisticated hairstyle is perfect for everything from casual brunches to glamorous evenings out. Let’s dive into how you can master this eye-catching look.
What is a Bubble Ponytail?
A bubble ponytail is exactly what it sounds like – a regular ponytail transformed into a series of “bubbles” using elastic bands. It’s a modern take on the classic ponytail that adds volume, texture, and a touch of whimsy to your look.
What You’ll Need:
• Clear elastic bands or small hair ties
• Smoothing brush
• Hair spray
• Texturizing spray
• Bobby pins
• Tail comb for sectioning
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Prep Your Hair
Start with smooth, detangled hair. For extra grip, spray some texturising product at the roots. This will help your bubbles hold their shape longer.
2. Create Your Base
Pull your hair into a high, sleek ponytail. The placement is crucial – make sure it’s centred and secure. Pro tip: Use your cheekbones as a guide for the perfect height.
3. Section and Secure
• Starting about an inch below your base elastic, secure another hair tie
• Gently pull apart the section between the two elastics to create your first “bubble”
• Continue this process down the length of your ponytail
• Space each section evenly for a polished look
4. Perfect Your Bubbles
• Use your fingers to carefully pull each bubble outward for volume
• The looser you pull, the bigger your bubbles will be
• For a more modern look, make the bubbles slightly uneven
Styling Tips:
• For fine hair, add extensions for more dramatic bubbles
• Spray each section lightly with hairspray as you go
• Hide elastic bands by wrapping small sections of hair around them
• For a sleeker look, use a smoothing serum before styling
Essential Products for the Perfect Bubble Ponytail
1. Hair Ties & Elastics:
– Invisibobble Original Traceless Hair Rings
Perfect for creating secure bubbles without leaving creases
– Clear Elastic Bands by Goody
Ideal for a seamless look, especially on darker hair
– Blax Snag-Free Hair Elastics
Great for delicate hair and preventing breakage
2. Prep Products:
– Color Wow Dream Coat Anti-Humidity Treatment
Creates the perfect smooth base (available through our featured partner salons)
– Living Proof Full Dry Volume & Texture Spray
Adds grip and volume to each bubble
– Moroccanoil Treatment
Perfect for adding shine and controlling frizz
3. Styling Tools:
– Mason Pearson Brush
For creating a smooth, sleek base ponytail
– Tail Comb with Metal Tip
Essential for precise sectioning
– Iris Hantverk Small Boar Bristle Hairbrush
Perfect for smoothing each section
4. Setting Products:
– GHD Final Fix Hairspray
Provides long-lasting hold without stiffness
– Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray
Professional-grade hold with flexibility
– L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Fix Anti-Frizz Spray
Controls flyaways while maintaining movement
5. Finishing Products:
– Kérastase Elixir Ultime Oil Serum
Adds gorgeous shine and tames any remaining frizz
– Redken Shine Flash 02
Perfect for that final glossy finish
– Small Edge Brush
For controlling baby hairs and edges
Pro Tips for Product Application:
• Layer products starting with the lightest formulas
• Use texturising spray between sections for extra grip
• Apply hairspray from a distance to avoid product buildup
• Use shine products sparingly to maintain the bubble effect
Perfect For:
✨ Special occasions
✨ Festivals and concerts
✨ Work meetings (try a lower, more subtle version)
✨ Weekend brunches
✨ Date nights
Troubleshooting Common Issues:
• Flyaways? Use a small amount of hair oil and a clean spoolie brush
• Bubbles deflating? Try backcombing each section slightly before pulling them apart
• Ponytail slipping? Use two elastics at the base for extra security
The bubble ponytail is versatile enough to work with any hair texture and length (as long as it reaches your shoulders). Whether you’re going for cute and casual or sleek and sophisticated, this style can be adapted to suit your needs.
Remember: Practice makes perfect! Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t red-carpet ready. Like any new skill, creating the perfect bubble ponytail takes time to master.
Ready to show off your bubble ponytail? Book an appointment with a skilled hairstylists at Locate Your Look for a professional tutorial or styling session. They’ll help you perfect this trending look and teach you all their insider tricks!
