21 Vintage Ponytail Hairstyles That Never Go Out of Style

Let’s be real—pony tails are the little black dress of hairstyles. They’re timeless, practical, and somehow manage to look good whether you’re late for work or dressing up for a 60s-inspired dinner party.

But what if I told you your humble ponytail could have a full-blown vintage moment? Yep, we’re talking about classic, old-school ponytails that scream effortless glam—without looking like you just time-traveled.

Whether you’re into the retro charm of the 50s, the groovy vibes of the 70s, or the bold volume of the 80s, there’s a vintage ponytail that’ll make you feel like an icon.

So grab your teasing brush, some bobby pins, and maybe a little hairspray (okay, maybe a lot of hairspray), because we’re about to run through 21 vintage ponytail hairstyles worth recreating.

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1. The High 60s Ponytail

You know that ultra-bouncy, high-on-the-head ponytail that seems to defy gravity? That’s the signature 60s ponytail. Think Brigitte Bardot or early Cher.

Tease your crown for volume, secure your hair high, and wrap a strand around your elastic to hide it. Instant glam. The key is volume—lots of volume.

Ever notice how this style somehow makes every outfit look fancier? Yeah, it’s got that power.

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2. The Low Ribbon Ponytail

If you’re going for subtle sophistication, the low pony with a ribbon is your best friend. It’s vintage, feminine, and ridiculously easy.

Use a satin ribbon in black or cream for a classic touch—or go bold with red if you’re feeling dramatic. IMO, this look pairs perfectly with a collared blouse or a vintage dress.

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3. The Curled Ends Ponytail

This one’s for all the Marilyn Monroe lovers out there. Curl your ends inward for that polished, retro bounce. It’s flirty without trying too hard.

A touch of mousse or heat spray helps those curls hold up, especially if you plan on channeling your inner pin-up all night.

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4. The 50s Bubble Ponytail

Ever wondered how to make your ponytail look playful and structured? The bubble ponytail is the move.

Tie off sections of your ponytail with elastics every few inches, then gently puff out each section. It’s quirky, vintage, and—bonus—it makes thin hair look fuller.

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5. The Scarf-Wrapped Ponytail

This one’s pure retro magic. Grab a printed scarf and tie it around the base of your ponytail for an instant old-Hollywood feel.

The best part? It’s super customizable. Polka dots for a 50s vibe, paisley for a 70s look, or a silk scarf for pure Audrey Hepburn elegance.

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6. The Side-Swept Ponytail

Not every ponytail has to sit dead center. The side-swept ponytail gives instant vintage romance, especially when paired with soft waves.

It’s ideal for date nights, vintage photoshoots, or days when you just want to feel like an extra in Breakfast at Tiffany’s.

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7. The Rolled Bangs Ponytail

Nothing says retro like a good victory roll up front. Pair that with a sleek ponytail, and you’ve got a 40s-inspired masterpiece.

It’s the perfect mix of structured and sassy. Just don’t forget a solid hairspray—gravity will try to ruin your masterpiece.

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8. The Bouffant Ponytail

This one? Pure 60s drama. The bouffant ponytail is all about that teased crown and smooth pony combo.

Here’s the trick: tease the top layer of your hair before securing it back. Then wrap a strand around your elastic for a seamless finish. You’ll look like you walked straight out of a mod fashion spread.

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9. The Braided Base Ponytail

Adding a braided detail around your ponytail base gives it that subtle vintage twist. It’s simple but elegant.

You can even braid two small front sections and tie them back into your pony for a romantic, 70s-inspired vibe.

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10. The Sleek 50s Ponytail

The slick, polished ponytail never fails. Smooth everything down, tie it at mid-height, and curl the ends under.

This one’s perfect for when you want to look effortlessly put-together—think Grace Kelly meets modern minimalism.

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11. The Crimped Ponytail

Okay, hear me out. Crimped hair may scream “80s prom,” but when done right, it’s actually super chic.

Add texture to your ponytail with a crimper, then tie it high for that full-bodied retro effect. It’s bold, playful, and guaranteed to get attention.

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12. The Twist-and-Tie Ponytail

Want something soft and feminine? Twist small sections from both sides of your head and pin them into your ponytail.

It gives that vintage, almost Renaissance-inspired look—without looking like you tried too hard.

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13. The Beehive Ponytail

This one’s not for the faint of heart. The beehive ponytail is full-on vintage drama—big hair, big confidence.

Tease the crown, secure your pony high, and wrap a strand to finish. A wide headband or bold eyeliner completes the look perfectly.

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14. The Loose Wave Ponytail

Not every vintage style needs to be stiff. The loose, wavy ponytail gives you that effortlessly undone glamour.

Use a curling iron to create soft waves, then pull your hair back loosely. A few face-framing strands make it extra romantic.

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15. The Retro Flip Ponytail

This one’s for fans of 60s sitcoms and pastel cardigans. The flipped-out ponytail is fun, youthful, and easy to achieve.

Just curl your ends outward, spray for hold, and voilà—instant vintage sass. Don’t be surprised if you start humming old jingles while styling it.

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16. The Velvet Bow Ponytail

Add a velvet bow to your low ponytail for that classy, French-inspired touch. It’s soft, vintage, and timeless.

I swear, there’s something about velvet that makes you feel instantly fancier—even if you’re just running errands.

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17. The Wrapped Ponytail

Instead of using a basic elastic, wrap your ponytail with a strand of your own hair or a small accessory.

It’s a subtle tweak, but it adds instant polish. Combine it with soft curls, and you’ve got a style straight out of a 50s magazine.

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18. The Half-Up Vintage Ponytail

If you can’t commit to a full ponytail, go half-up, half-down. It’s got that girl-next-door, 60s charm.

Add a ribbon or bow for extra flair. It’s sweet, flirty, and looks great on basically everyone.

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19. The Puff Ponytail

The puff ponytail—a staple in 70s Bollywood and disco fashion—is making a comeback.

Tease the front section, smooth it back, and tie your ponytail low. It adds height and drama while keeping things balanced.

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20. The Twisted Bubble Ponytail

This modern take on the vintage bubble ponytail adds a bit of edge. Instead of just puffing the sections, twist each one slightly before tying it off.

It gives a sculpted, retro-futuristic look—like something out of Barbarella.

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21. The Hollywood Glam Ponytail

Last but definitely not least: the Hollywood ponytail. Think deep side part, soft curls, and high shine.

Use a gloss spray for that red-carpet sheen. It’s vintage, but it feels current—proof that old-school glam never really goes out of style.

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Quick Styling Tips for Perfect Vintage Ponytails

Want your vintage ponytail to look flawless and stay that way all day? Here’s what actually works:

• Use a volumizing spray before you style—it gives your pony that retro lift.
• Tease strategically. Don’t go full bird’s nest, just focus on the crown.
• Hide your elastics with a strand of hair—it’s a tiny touch that makes a huge difference.
• Set it with hairspray. Seriously, vintage styles and humidity are sworn enemies.
• Accessorize smartly. Scarves, bows, ribbons—just don’t overdo it. Balance is key.

Ever wonder why your ponytail never looks quite as good as the one in old photos? It’s usually because of volume and texture. Back in the day, women teased, set, and sprayed their hair like their lives depended on it. So don’t be shy with that brush.

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Why Vintage Ponytails Still Work Today

You might ask—why are these looks still trending decades later? Simple. They’re timeless.

Vintage ponytails combine structure and femininity in a way modern styles rarely do. They look intentional but not fussy, glamorous but easy. And they suit just about everyone, from short to long hair, straight to curly.

Plus, they’re ridiculously versatile. You can wear a high 60s pony to brunch or a sleek 50s pony to a wedding. There’s literally a vintage ponytail for every mood and outfit.

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Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the vintage ponytail isn’t just a hairstyle—it’s an attitude. It’s about confidence, playfulness, and that irresistible retro charm.

Whether you go for a bouncy 60s high pony or a romantic scarf-wrapped low pony, each one tells a story. You don’t need a time machine to channel old-school glam—just a brush, some spray, and maybe a bit of sass.

So go on—grab your mirror, turn up some old tunes, and give one of these looks a try. Fair warning though: once you nail that perfect vintage ponytail, you might never go back to your boring everyday one.