Spice Up Your Poly

The ponytail is a staple in just about everyone's hair arsenal, but let's face it – they get old. Although seeing your face and neck is beautiful, a ponytail can be a bit boring. Since they are so practical, however, you probably don't want to completely cut them out of your hair options. With a few little tricks, you can spice up your 'do and leave your pony looking amazing.

Beautiful Braid

One easy and elegant way to add a bit of style and flair to your pony is to add a braid to the mix. Forget braiding the pony; this style features braid on the underside. To get your pony looking saucy, grab about 90 percent of hair, leaving a small amount on the bottom. Secure the big chunk of hair, and work on braiding the bottom. You can braid in the center of the braid, or you can make it off to the side – both look fabulous.

Secure the braid with a ponytail holder, then work on getting the larger chunk together in a ponytail. Once you do, grab the braid and place it in the ponytail holder, as well. You will be left with a cute braid peeking out from underneath or the side of the ponytail. You could also place your hair in a bun to really show off that pretty braid. Add something sparkly to the mix and you're good to go.

Please Tease Me

The teased pony has been getting lots of attention lately and for good reason – it's hot. Before you go thinking it is too hard to create, think again. A teased ponytail is quite simple and you only need a few items to complete the fabulous look.

Start by working some mousse into your hair; it will help to add volume. Once you do, pull your hair back into a ponytail holder in the middle of the back of your head. Now grab your brush and start to brush towards your forehead. Doing so will create volume. Don't go overboard, however, or you'll end up with the proverbial rat's nest on the top of your head.

Once you get the volume you desire, brush back gently to work out any tangles or weird-looking areas. You can also use your fingers to pull up on the hair to give it a boost. Go back over your 'do with hairspray to keep it in place.

Elegant Pony

If you're going to a formal affair or just want to look stunning, try this super elegant style. Pull your hair back into a low pony, then run some smoothing cream over top to tame any frizz. Leave a strand at the back of your ponytail out, then secure it with a holder. Wrap the piece that is out around the holder so that you can't see it. Tuck the end into the elastic on the underside of the ponytail.

Fold your hair down, then bring it back up towards the underside of your hair so that you create a folded bun. Secure the ends of your hair with bobby pins under the ponytail holder and you're good to go. Your 'do will look so amazing you're sure to get compliments.

Heather Vicchioni,

Ici Fashion