Creating the perfect ponytail

Ponytails are big news this season, here are some key pieces of advice for achieving the perfect ponytails for your clients. "This look is in high demand due to its sexy, simple style. Use a styling product that adds a textured and kinky feel to the ponytail and think big. Its versatility means that it can be worn on most occasions, whether you are looking for that soft feminine look or a sassy catwalk feel. Blow-dry hair with as much added volume as you can inject, scoop hair back into a ponytail and backcomb where it needs a little extra oomph. The real beauty of it is that it’s supposed to be a casual finish, so don’t worry about all those bits that won’t lie flat." Barrie Stephen, Leicester "A ponytail can instantly look chic and elegant. They are just one of those classic styles that will be around forever. This type of ponytail is a bit more complex. It is achieved by separating the hair into two original tails and securing the underneath one with a bungee or covered band. Then the ponytail on top is pulled halfway through and fanned out to create the bow effect. It is an interesting and quirky take on an original style. It’s fun and could be worn with accessories to a black-tie event." HJ’s 2007 Scottish Hairdresser of the Year Tracey Devine, Angels, Aberdeen "Ponytails are one of the simplest styles to create and the look can take you anywhere from the tight, low and super-glam, as seen on Mischa Barton, to the soft, curled, worn on one side look seen on Nicole Kidman recently. They work well with full fringes, side, centre or no partings, straight or curly hair. The ponytail even works on short hair for a cool kid look, held in place with decorative pins and slides. Whatever the style of ponytail, the band should always be hidden. Wrap a small section of the loose hair around the base of the ponytail and secure it with a hairpin." Tim Lawton, TPL Hairdressing, Nantwich, Cheshire