Bubble Braid Ponytail: An Easy Ponytail That Looks Like a Braid

A bubble braid ponytail is popular because it gives the look of a braid without actually braiding. You only need a ponytail, a few small elastics, and a minute to shape each section.

It works best on medium to long hair. On shorter hair the bubbles are smaller, but the same steps still work.

Step 1 — Make a secure ponytail.

Brush your hair back and tie a ponytail where you want it — high for a playful look, mid-height for everyday wear. The base must feel secure, because every bubble pulls on it a little.

Step 2 — Add elastics down the length.

Place small elastics evenly down the ponytail, about 5–7 cm apart. Keep the gaps roughly equal; uneven gaps are the main reason a bubble braid looks messy.

Step 3 — Shape each bubble.

Between two elastics, gently pull the hair outward on both sides until it rounds out. Work from the top down, and shape each bubble a little less than the one above it if you want a tapered finish.

Step 4 — Check the balance.

From the side, the bubbles should get slightly smaller toward the ends. If one bubble looks flat, pull it out a little more at the sides, not at the front.

Variations to try

• Low bubble braid: A low ponytail version suits workdays and looks softer than a high bubble braid.
• Half-up bubble braid: Gather only the top section into a bubble braid and leave the rest down, for a softer version of the half-up styles already on this site.
• Two bubble braids: Split the hair into two ponytails first, then bubble-braid each side for a casual weekend style.

Fixes for common problems

• Bubbles go flat: The elastics may be too far apart, or the section was not pulled out evenly on both sides.
• Bubbles look uneven: Re-space the elastics before shaping; shaping cannot fix a very uneven gap.
• Ponytail slips: Secure the base with a second elastic, or pin the base lightly before adding the lower elastics.
• Too much flyaway hair: Smooth only the outer layer lightly with your hands; do not brush the finished bubbles out.

Next step

If you like fast styles that hold all day, also try the claw-clip styles and the easy messy bun on this site — both take a similar amount of time with no heat. For a classic braided option, see French Braid for Beginners.