23 Two Braided Ponytails Ideas That’ll Make Everyone Do a Double Take
Let’s be honest — braids are like the little black dress of hairstyles.
Timeless, flattering, and endlessly versatile. But when you mix two braids with a ponytail, you suddenly go from “cute and casual” to “who is she and why does her hair look so good?”
I’ve tried just about every version of the two braided ponytail — some turned out like Pinterest dreams, others like I’d wrestled a hairbrush and lost. But trust me, once you nail it, you’ll want to wear this style everywhere.
So, whether you’re heading to school, the gym, brunch, or a wedding, here are 23 two braided ponytail ideas that’ll inspire your next hair moment. Ready to look effortlessly put-together (even if you’re anything but)? Let’s go.
1. Classic Dutch Braided Ponytail
If you’ve ever wanted that “model off-duty” vibe, this is it. Start two Dutch braids from the top of your head and secure them into a high ponytail. It’s edgy but still wearable for everyday life.
Pro tip: Pancake the braids (a fancy way of saying “pull them apart gently”) for that fuller, Instagram-worthy look.
2. Sleek and Tight Two Braided Ponytail
This one means business. Perfect for workouts or hot days when you need everything off your face. Use styling gel or wax to slick down flyaways, braid tightly, and tie them back into a neat ponytail.
Bonus: it lasts all day, even through your spin class.
3. Boho Loose Braids with Ponytail
If you’re more of a free-spirited type (or just pretending to be one on weekends), this one’s for you. Keep the braids loose and messy for that bohemian vibe. Add a few face-framing strands — because we all know they make everything look “effortless.”
4. Bubble Braided Ponytail
Okay, technically not a traditional braid, but it gives the same effect — and it’s so fun. Create two bubble braids on top, pull them into a ponytail, then use small elastics to make bubbles down the length.
It’s playful, bold, and surprisingly easy.
5. French Braided Ponytail
A two French braid ponytail is that perfect mix of chic and casual. The braids start at the front, frame your face, and then merge into one sleek pony. It’s ideal for everything from a coffee date to a lazy Sunday look.
6. Fishtail Braided Ponytail
Fishtail braids look way harder than they actually are. When you do two and tie them into a ponytail, you’ll look like you spent an hour doing your hair — even if you only spent ten minutes.
IMO, it’s the perfect “I made an effort, but not too much” look.
7. High Two Braided Ponytail
If you want instant drama, take it up — literally. A high ponytail with two braids gives you that fierce, lifted look. Think Ariana Grande meets warrior princess.
8. Low Two Braided Ponytail
Low ponytails are sleek, mature, and elegant. Two side braids leading into a low pony work great for formal events or professional settings. Just smooth everything down with a touch of serum for shine.
9. Two Braided Ponytails with Beads
Want a little extra flair? Add beads or cuffs to the ends of your braids. They instantly transform your look from simple to statement. Plus, they make that satisfying click when you move — fashion and sound effects in one.
10. Half-Up Two Braided Ponytail
Not sure if you want your hair up or down? Do both. Two small braids tied into a half ponytail give a playful, youthful look without too much effort. It’s one of my go-to “I overslept but still want to look cute” hairstyles.
11. Double Dutch Braids into a Ponytail
This one’s a gym classic. Two Dutch braids running parallel from the front to the crown, then tied back into a ponytail — neat, secure, and super functional. You’ll look put-together even if you’re sweating through burpees.
12. Crisscross Braided Ponytail
This one’s a showstopper. Instead of keeping the braids straight, cross them over each other before tying them into a ponytail. It adds dimension and looks way more complex than it really is.
13. Rope Braided Ponytail
If you’re not great at three-strand braids (we’ve all been there), try rope braids. Just twist two sections of hair and wrap them together. They look sleek, polished, and take half the effort.
14. Two Braided Ponytails with Ribbon
Add a ribbon or scarf through your braids for a pop of color. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference — perfect for spring or summer outfits.
FYI, this one photographs beautifully.
15. Messy Two Braided Ponytail
Some days, “messy” isn’t a bad thing. Loosen up your braids, pull out a few strands, and don’t stress over perfection. The slightly undone look actually feels intentional. You know, like you didn’t try too hard — even though you totally did.
16. Two Braided Ponytails with Extensions
If you love volume, add hair extensions for length and thickness. Whether it’s clip-ins or braiding hair, this instantly elevates your look from simple to red-carpet level.
And let’s be real — who doesn’t love a little extra drama?
17. Cornrow Braided Ponytail
This is one of the most stylish and low-maintenance options. Two thick cornrows leading back into a ponytail give a clean, defined look that lasts days. Add gel or edge control for a sleek finish.
18. Side Two Braided Ponytail
If symmetry feels boring, switch it up. Create two braids on one side and tie them into a side ponytail. It’s fun, unexpected, and perfect for casual hangs or date nights.
19. Zigzag Part Two Braided Ponytail
Add personality with a zigzag part. It’s such a small tweak, but it gives your hairstyle a trendy, editorial edge. Use a tail comb for that perfect zigzag and watch the compliments roll in.
20. Two Braided Ponytails with Curls
This one is pure magic. Create your two braids, tie them back, then curl the ends of your ponytail. The contrast between the structured braids and soft curls looks stunning.
It’s romantic, classy, and perfect for weddings or formal events.
21. Two Braided Ponytails with Middle Part
Keep it clean and symmetrical with a center part. Two identical braids feeding into one ponytail look neat, modern, and surprisingly easy to pull off.
Honestly, it’s giving “I have my life together” energy.
22. Two Braided Ponytails with Undercut
Feeling bold? Pair your braids with an undercut or shaved design. It’s edgy, creative, and guaranteed to stand out.
Fair warning, though — you’ll need a good stylist for this one unless you trust yourself with clippers (which… I don’t recommend).
23. Two Braided Ponytails with Color Accents
Last but not least — color! Add some bright extensions or weave in colored threads. Whether it’s pastel pink, electric blue, or even gold thread, color instantly takes your look to the next level.
Tips for Nailing the Perfect Two Braided Ponytail
After years of trial, error, and way too many broken elastics, here’s what I’ve learned about making your two braided ponytail actually stay put and look amazing:
- Start with texture. Clean hair can be slippery. Use dry shampoo or texturizing spray for grip.
- Section evenly. Uneven braids look messy (and not the good kind). Use clips or a tail comb to keep lines straight.
- Secure tightly. Use sturdy elastics and bobby pins — the cheap ones never survive more than an hour.
- Tame flyaways. A dab of pomade or edge control keeps your style looking fresh.
- Finish strong. A spritz of light-hold hairspray keeps everything in place without turning your hair into a helmet.
And please, for the love of all things hair, don’t skip conditioner if you’re braiding often. Your strands will thank you later.
Why Two Braided Ponytails Never Go Out of Style
You know how some trends come and go faster than a TikTok sound? Two braided ponytails aren’t one of them. They’ve been around forever — from red carpets to gym selfies — and they’re not going anywhere. Why? Because they’re practical, versatile, and flattering for literally everyone.
You can wear them sleek or messy, formal or casual, simple or extra. They’re like the Swiss army knife of hairstyles — always useful, always cool.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, two braided ponytails are about confidence and creativity. There’s no one “right” version — just the one that makes you feel amazing. Try a few styles, mix them up, and don’t stress if your braids aren’t perfectly even. (Honestly, nobody notices but you.)
So grab your brush, your favorite scrunchies, and a little patience — because the perfect two braided ponytail is just a few twists away. And when someone inevitably asks, “How did you do that?” you can just smile and say, “Oh, it’s nothing.”

Hi, I’m Ashley Miller, a wife, a busy mom, and someone who loves to share all the things that make life a little more fun and beautiful.
From easy DIY projects, delicious recipes, and chic hairstyles to nail ideas and home decor tips, I share everything I’ve learned and love.
My goal is to inspire other women to explore their creativity and make their homes even more special.