As wedding season gets underway, brides will no doubt be looking for wedding hairstyles that feel both elegant and modern, and the waterfall ponytail is quickly becoming a top choice for 2025.
This look combines the sophistication of a polished ponytail with the soft, movement brides love. This is also ideal for clients who will be wearing strapless gowns and clean satin silhouettes.
However, achieving the perfect waterfall ponytail requires thick, voluminous hair, which can be created using texture irons and clip-in extensions. “So far this year, I’ve had three brides request this beautiful waterfall ponytail during their hair trials,” says Caralee Pridemore, Sam Villa Ambassador and and founder of @sweetlypinnedbycaralee, a specialist in on-location wedding hair and updos. Here she shares her expert tips and a simple, step-by-step guide to mastering this gorgeous bridal look.
Step-by-Step: How To Create A Waterfall Ponytail
Here’s Caralee’s step-by-step guide on how to recreate this trending bridal hairstyle:
1. Prep the Hair
- Start by using a texture iron all over the hair to create volume and density, Caralee opts for the Sam Villa Texture Professional Texture Iron.
- If the client’s hair is curly or frizzy, pre-straighten it first to ensure a smooth base.
2. Create Two Ponytails
- Backcomb the crown for extra volume.
- Divide the hair into two ponytails: one lower at the nape, one higher near the crown.
3. Style the Lower Ponytail
- Clip up the top ponytail temporarily.
- Curl the lower ponytail away from the face using 1.5” iron.
- Curl the right side back towards the center, and repeat on the left.
- Gently pinch and pull apart curls for a fuller, textured look using volume powder.
4. Add Hair Extensions (if needed)
- Place clip-in hair extensions between the two ponytails, alternating wefts upwards and downwards for maximum volume and natural blending.
5. Style the Top Ponytail
- Repeat the same curling method with the top ponytail.
- Lay the curls gently over the bottom ponytail, ensuring all curls are expanded and blended seamlessly.
- Use a wax or smoothing cream to tame frizz and enhance shine.
6. Finish the Look
- Take a section from the bottom of the top ponytail and wrap it around the two ponytails to conceal any bands. Secure with a pin.
- Pull out a few face-framing pieces and sculpt them for a soft, dimensional texture.
Caralee's Pro Tip: Add pearls, hair accessories or a long veil placed on top for a romantic, elevated finish.
Why Brides Love the Waterfall Sleek Ponytail
This elegant and modern bridal ponytail offers the perfect balance of structured beauty and natural movement. It's versatile, photographs beautifully and stays secure throughout the wedding day - making it a favourite for weddings in 2025.
