Olympics 2012: How to … Do a Sporty Ponytail

Tue, 31 July 2012 2:46PM

There have been plenty of low ponytails on the recent catwalks (Calvin Klein, Anna Sui, Ralph Lauren, to name a few), as well as red carpets. And sure, the style gives off a lovely sporty-chic allure. But those of us who really walk (or run) the talk know that the most practical pony, when it comes to tressing up for working out, is a high one.

Not too high, mind you, as this bounces into perky cheerleader territory. For ponies that want to play the field, the most streamlined style is positioned in the middle of the back of the head.

Case in point:

So it was as the Chanel show, where stylist Sam McKnight told WWD: “I hate to use the word equestrian, but it’s got the strictness of a rider.”

Which reminds of us of one of our girls crushes, Charlotte Casiraghi, grand-daughter of Princess Grace and the chicest horse-rider around:

So how to style yourself a pony that looks ready to ride a horse or run a race (and win a medal while you’re there)? Try these tips:

• Always start with sleek, blow-dried hair. To give it enough grit to hold your style in place, work dry shampoo or hairspray throughout.
• If your hair is frizzy or unruly, you’ll need a styling product that gives you a bit more control. Try a mix of strong-hold mousse and gel – this was what Mr McKnight used at the Chanel show.
• If you want a really slick, shiny look, go straight for a serum – a dollop or two, worked throughout hair, from roots to tips, will give hair a stretchy effect, allowing you to pull it into the sleekest look possible.
• Any pony placed higher than the nape can droop during the day. One way to ensure your pony will stay put is to position it with gravity’s help. Sitting in a chair, flip your head back and pull hair into place. Sit upright again and, holding your tail in place, brush the hair’s surface smooth.
• Secure your pony with an elastic. Add another one for extra security.
• Deal with any frizzies or flyways by misting an old toothbrush with hairspray, and running this across the hairline and surface of hair.
• Brush the tail sleek. If necessary, iron the ends to give what Mr McKnight describes as “the ponytail version of the Nike Swoosh.”
• Do you highlight your hair? If you usually only ever request a half-head, consider investing in a full-head of foils at least once, especially if you’re planning to rock a high ponytail regularly this coming summer. That’s because ponies reveal all the under sections of hair that are rarely touched by your colourist. The effect can be a little too top-deck. Unless, of course, you love the two-tone look and that’s your aim.

PS: Looking for new ways to dress up your sporty pony? Scunci sells a four-pack of skinny bands in pastel hues, at $8.95, which give a ‘do a retro tennis vibe. Find them in Priceline or selected pharmacies.

Not your thing? Try adding a chic ponytail cuff in a medal-like metallic – Diva sells gold and silver designs, for $7.95 a pop.

What do you think, Primpettes? Are you sporting a high pony right now?

Or do you prefer a lower, yet higher-fashion take on the tail?

Posted by: Katrina Lawrence

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Tags: 2012 olympics, chanel, charlotte casiraghi, high ponytail, low ponytail, ponytail, sam mcknight, sport