As the mercury climbs and summer is finally here in full force, we’re all searching for that perfect hairdo that will keep us cool yet stylish. In comes the frontal ponytail —a sleek, versatile, and unexpectedly high-fashion hair trend that’s sweeping this season. From running errands to rooftop brunches to dancing at outdoor concerts, the frontal ponytail is your summer glam trick of the trade.
Let’s get into why this look is taking over our timelines and how you can rock it, regardless of your hair texture or face shape.
What Exactly Is A Frontal Ponytail?
A frontal ponytail, also referred to as a “high forehead ponytail” or “top knot pony,” is just what it sounds like: a ponytail pulled high on the head, usually beginning directly at the crown or just above the forehead. It’s not a half-up do and not a full pony but somehow wonderfully in between. Picture Bella Hadid walking down the runway or Kim Kardashian doing a simple rendition of the style it’s a spontaneously edgy yet refined look.
This isn’t your middle school P.E. class ponytail. With the right styling and attitude, the frontal ponytail has been reinvented as a luxurious accessory for the contemporary woman.
Why Does It Work So Well For Summer?
- It Keeps You Cool Without Sacrificing Style
Summer warmth requires hairstyles that leave your neck clear of clingy strands yet still stylish. The frontal ponytail sweeps hair off your face and shoulders, letting air get to you where you want it most—without compromising glamour.
- It Transforms Any Outfit Overnight
Whether you’re in a linen slip dress or bike shorts and a cropped tee, a clean, sleek frontal ponytail adds instant polish. It frames the face beautifully and gives off a “just-rolled-out-of-a-magazine” vibe.
- It’s Surprisingly Flattering
Due to its height, the front ponytail stretches out the face and draws the focus upwards, accentuating cheekbones and jawlines. And if you skip a few face-framing strands or baby hairs, you immediately break up the look and create depth.
- It’s Low-Maintenance Glam
You don’t have to spend hours in front of the mirror to pull it off. It only takes minutes to style a slicked-back frontal ponytail, but it looks like you have a pro do it. Perfect for those mornings when you need to look glam without sweating (or messing up your blowout).
Master The Frontal Ponytail Like A Pro
- Step 1: Prep Your Hair
Begin with clean, dry hair. If your hair is naturally curly or textured, a light smoothing serum or an anti-frizz cream will get you that pulled-together, glossed-up look. For straight hair, a blowout or flat iron will do the trick in getting you that catwalk shine.
Tip: Clarify your hair the night before to prevent greasy buildup around the hairline.
- Step 2: Section It Off
Gather a section of hair from ear to ear across your forehead. This section begins just above the brow and goes back toward the crown. Clip the rest of your hair out of your face.
- Step 3: Smooth And Secure
Using a paddle brush or boar bristle brush, slick the top section tightly down onto your scalp and hold it in place with a transparent elastic or coordinating hair tie. The tighter and tidier the section, the more sophisticated the look with a frontal wig.
For maximum edge, experiment with a rattail comb to help create a severe part or side part for added drama.
- Step 4: Add Texture Or Volume
Want to make it fashion-week material? Leave the rest of your hair loose in waves or curl the remaining length for texture. Or braid the rest of the length for a boho spin. You might also twist the bottom sections inward and pin them loosely underneath for a fake updo.
- Step 5: Accessorize (Optional)
Hair clips, pearl pins, or a silk scarf wrapped around the ponytail base can turn the look from simple to editorial in a matter of seconds.
Who Can Rock A Frontal Ponytail?
The good news? Practically everyone. Short layers, long luscious locks, natural curls, or sleek straight hair can be adapted to fit your features.
- Round faces: Opt for a higher ponytail to add vertical lift.
- Oval faces: You can play with placement—higher for boldness, slightly lower for softness.
- Square or angular faces: Leave out wispy strands to soften the look.
- Heart-shaped faces: Emphasize the ponytail height to balance facial proportions.
Final Thoughts
In a year where fashion blends with comfort, the front pony is the ultimate fusion hairstyle. It’s casual enough for everyday use but glamorous enough for a night out. Whether you’re swimming at the beach or sipping rosé at the rooftop bar, this summer go-to keeps you cool, confident, and camera-ready.
So the next time you go for that typical messy bun or low pony, stop—and turn to the front. Because when it comes to summer glamour, the frontal ponytail is all you didn’t know you needed.
Now slay the season—one high pony at a time. N’Daya: Adores playing with accessories and volume for red-carpet occasions.
