15 Ponytails With Clips

3. High Voluminous Ponytail With Crystal Clip

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A high ponytail already makes a bold statement, so pairing it with a crystal or rhinestone-studded clip elevates the entire look into genuinely glamorous territory. This is the style you reach for when you want to look dressed up without actually trying that hard — the high placement draws eyes upward, and the sparkle adds just enough drama.

Building the Volume

The secret to a high ponytail that looks full and intentional rather than scraped-back and severe is starting with texture. You want your hair to have some grip and substance before you pull it into that high ponytail, which means either curling your hair beforehand or using a volumizing product.

Creating the Look

• Apply volumizing mousse to your roots and blow dry your hair upside down for maximum lift
• Once dry, gently brush your hair to smooth it slightly while maintaining volume
• Gather your hair high at the crown — imagine the ponytail base sitting where a high bun would sit
• Use a clear elastic to secure the ponytail first, then slide your crystal clip over the base of the ponytail to cover the elastic
• Gently tease the ponytail section itself with a fine-tooth comb to add even more visual volume

Pro tip: If you’re using a statement crystal clip, skip the decorative hair wrap. Let the clip be the jewelry of the look, and keep everything else clean and simple.

4. Side-Swept Ponytail With Tortoiseshell Claw Clip

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A side-swept ponytail automatically looks more playful and romantic than a centered one, and when you secure it with a tortoiseshell claw clip, you get a style that works equally well for casual Friday or a date night. The asymmetrical placement makes this feel less formal than a centered high ponytail while still keeping your hair completely out of your face.

Why the Asymmetry Works

When your ponytail is swept to one side, it creates a diagonal line that’s inherently more interesting than a vertical or horizontal one. This diagonal movement makes your face look longer and more angular in a flattering way, and it photographs beautifully from certain angles — which is why this style feels so effortlessly photogenic.

How to Style It

• Start with textured hair — either curled or with a texturizing spray applied to straight hair
• Create a deep side part, sweeping most of your hair toward your preferred side
• Gather the hair from that side into a low-to-mid ponytail, positioning it slightly below where a centered ponytail would sit
• Secure with a tortoiseshell claw clip, tilting the clip slightly to follow the angle of the sweep
• Leave a few face-framing pieces loose for softness
• Gently pull the ponytail slightly to create a lived-in, relaxed look

Insider note: The claw clip itself becomes part of the styling statement here, so choose one with visible tortoiseshell pattern rather than a clear clip that might disappear into your hair.

5. Braided Wrap Ponytail With Metal Clip

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This style adds an extra layer of texture and visual interest by incorporating a thin braid that wraps around the base of your ponytail before being secured with a sleek metal clip. It’s more intricate than a basic ponytail but far easier than it looks, and the final result appears genuinely effortful.

The Two-Part Structure

The beauty of this style is that it’s really just two simple steps: create your ponytail, then add the braid. The braid doesn’t need to be perfect or even particularly visible — its main job is to add dimension and help your clip look intentionally placed rather than strictly functional.

Building the Braided Base

• Pull your hair into your preferred ponytail (high, mid, or low)
• Take a thin section of hair from one side of your ponytail base
• Braid this section loosely down a few inches — you’re aiming for something relaxed, not tight
• Wrap this braid around the base of your ponytail and secure everything together with a metal clip
• The clip should sit over where the braid ends, making it look like the clip is intentionally holding the braid in place
• Leave the rest of the ponytail loose and wavy for contrast

Worth knowing: This works beautifully with thicker hair because the braid adds texture without making your ponytail look thin. If you have finer hair, use a braid that’s almost more of a twisted section — it’ll look equally intentional but less heavy.

6. Claw Clip Curly Ponytail With Undone Texture

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When you have curly or textured hair, a claw clip paired with a bouncy ponytail is absolute magic. The clip holds everything in place while the curls at the ends maintain all their volume and movement, creating a style that looks both intentional and completely unfussy.

Embracing Natural Texture

The biggest mistake with this style is trying to make your ponytail too neat or polished. The whole point is that your curls are loud and proud — the claw clip is just there to keep them organized enough to wear in public. Your curls should be the star, not something to smooth down and tame.

How to Create It

• Start with refreshed, defined curls — use a curl-enhancing spray or refresh your curls with a spray bottle and product
• Flip your head upside down and gather your curls at your desired ponytail height
• Use a claw clip to secure the ponytail, and position it so that some of your curl pattern is visible even where the clip holds
• Flip back right-side up and gently separate your curls at the base of the clip to prevent it from looking too tight
• Fluff and shape your curls at the ponytail ends until they look like an intentional, voluminous finish

Pro tip: A larger claw clip works better with thicker, curlier hair because it distributes pressure across a wider area and doesn’t create a dent in your curls the way a small clip might. Go for a clip that’s at least 3 inches wide if you have substantial hair.

7. Slicked-Back Clip Ponytail With Graphic Barrette

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A completely slicked-back ponytail paired with a bold, graphic barrette or clip turns your hair into almost an architectural statement. This is the style for days when you want to show off your face and neck, or when you’re going for that deliberate, high-fashion vibe.

The Slick Look Across All Hair Types

Even if you have naturally textured hair, you can create the slicked-back effect by using a strong-hold gel or pomade and combing everything back with a fine-tooth comb. The key is not being afraid of how wet and shiny your hair looks while wet — it’ll dry to a sleek finish once the product sets.

Executing the Look

• Apply a strong-hold styling gel or pomade to damp hair, working it through from roots to ends
• Use a fine-tooth comb to comb all your hair straight back, smoothing it as you go
• Gather everything into a ponytail at your preferred height
• Before securing with a clip, use the comb to smooth down any flyaways
• Secure with a statement barrette or graphic clip — choose something with visual weight because your hair is very clean and minimal
• Let the clip be the only decoration; skip any hair wraps or additional accessories

Worth knowing: This style stays in place best when you use a product with actual hold, not just a light texturizing spray. The slicked-back look requires commitment, so don’t half-measure your styling products.

8. Bubble Ponytail With Multiple Clips

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A bubble ponytail creates visual interest through a series of sections, each cinched with a small clip or elastic. This style is more playful and fashion-forward than a traditional ponytail, and the multiple clips function as both hardware and styling elements.

How the Bubble Effect Works

Instead of one continuous ponytail, you’re creating distinct “bubbles” of hair by securing sections at intervals down the length of the ponytail. Each bubble puffs out slightly, creating a three-dimensional effect that reads as much more intentional and styled than it actually is.

Creating the Bubbles

• Pull your hair into a ponytail and secure with an elastic or your first clip
• About 2-3 inches down from your first clip, add a second clip or elastic
• Gently tease the hair between the two clips to create a slight puff — don’t go overboard; subtle is more chic
• Continue adding clips every 2-3 inches down the length of your ponytail
• Each clip should sit in the same position (directly center of the ponytail) for a clean, intentional look
• Use clips in matching tortoiseshell or metal for a cohesive finish, or coordinate them with your outfit

Pro tip: If you’re using elastics under clips, the clips should cover the elastics completely so your ponytail appears to be held together entirely by the clips. This creates a much cleaner visual effect.

9. Textured Clip Ponytail With Waves

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A textured ponytail with waves throughout gives you all the benefits of styling — visual interest, dimension, movement — without the tight, formal feeling of a sleek ponytail. Adding a beautiful clip to this relaxed style actually makes it look more intentional, like you planned the whole thing.

Building Waves Into Your Ponytail

You want to add texture before you create your ponytail, which means either curling your hair, braiding it overnight, or using a texturizing product and running your hands through it repeatedly. The texture should be visible even in the sections that get pulled back into the ponytail.

Assembling the Style

• Create waves or texture throughout your hair using your preferred method
• Gather your textured hair into a ponytail at your desired height
• Secure with a clip that complements your texture — a tortoiseshell clip works beautifully, as does a matte metal clip
• Once clipped, gently separate and shape the waves in your ponytail to enhance their visibility
• Leave some face-framing pieces loose to soften the overall look
• The messier and more undone your waves appear, the more intentional the whole look becomes

Worth knowing: This style actually looks better when your ponytail isn’t perfectly smooth. Imperfection and texture are the whole point, so resist the urge to smooth everything down with a brush.

10. Double Claw Clip Ponytail With Layered Sections

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Using two claw clips instead of one creates visual dimension and a more fashion-forward aesthetic. By positioning them slightly offset and clipping different sections of hair, you create a style that looks complicated but is surprisingly simple to execute.

Why Two Clips Are Better Than One

A double clip approach lets you secure your ponytail more firmly — one clip holds the bulk of your hair, and a second clip positioned just slightly lower adds both security and visual interest. The offset positioning makes the ponytail feel intentionally styled rather than merely practical.

How to Layer With Two Clips

• Pull your hair into a ponytail at your preferred height
• Use your first claw clip to secure the bulk of your hair, positioning it through the center of your ponytail base
• Take a thin section from one side of your ponytail and clip it separately with a second claw clip, positioned just below the first clip and angled slightly
• The second clip should look intentional — like you meant to highlight that section — not accidental
• You can match your clips or choose complementary colors and materials
• Keep both clips visible; this isn’t about hiding hardware, it’s about showcasing it

Pro tip: If you’re using two clips, make sure they’re from the same material family (both tortoiseshell, both metal) so they look coordinated rather than mismatched.

11. Slicked High Ponytail With Minimalist Metal Clip

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This is the ultimate refined, polished style — a high ponytail pulled back so tightly that it’s almost severe, secured with a single, thin metal clip that reads as jewelry rather than just a hair-holding mechanism. This works for formal events, professional settings, or when you want to look completely put-together.

The Precision Required

Creating this look successfully means everything needs to be smooth, sleek, and intentional. There’s nowhere to hide with this style, so your hairline, your part, and your clip placement all become visible architectural elements of your overall look.

Building the Look

• Apply a strong-hold gel or pomade to damp hair
• Blow dry completely straight, smoothing as you go
• Create a clean center or deep side part, depending on your preference
• Gather all hair at the crown of your head, pulling it back smoothly with no bumps or loose pieces
• Secure with a thin metal clip — gold, silver, or rose gold depending on your skin tone
• Use the clip as a statement piece; it should be visible and elegant
• Smooth down any flyaways with a fine-tooth comb and finishing spray

Worth knowing: This style requires commitment to ongoing maintenance throughout the day. Keep your smoothing spray handy to touch up any pieces that escape as the day goes on.

12. Clipped Ponytail With Decorative Hair Wrap

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Combining a decorative clip with an intentional hair wrap creates a style that looks genuinely polished and thought-through. The wrap adds texture and visual interest, while the clip secures everything and serves as a focal point.

What a Hair Wrap Adds

A hair wrap — created by taking a thin section of hair from your ponytail, wrapping it around the base, and securing the end — instantly makes your ponytail look finished and intentional. It covers the elastic or the top of your clip, creating a seamless transition from your hair to your ponytail.

Creating the Wrapped Look

• Pull your hair into your ponytail and secure with a clip positioned lower on the base
• Take a thin section of hair from the underneath of your ponytail
• Wrap this section tightly around the base of your ponytail, covering where your clip sits
• Secure the end of this wrap with a bobby pin hidden underneath
• Your clip should be partially visible above the wrap, creating a layered, intentional effect
• If your clip has an interesting pattern or color, let part of it show above the wrap for visual interest

Pro tip: If your hair is very fine, use an even thinner section for your wrap so it doesn’t look chunky. If your hair is very thick, don’t hesitate to use a thicker wrap section — it’ll look more substantial and elegant.

13. Clipped Crown Braid Ponytail

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A braided crown element paired with a low clip ponytail creates a romantic, deliberate style that works for everything from casual to semi-formal occasions. The braid adds texture and visual interest, while the clip keeps everything secure and polished.

Building the Crown Structure

A crown braid doesn’t need to go all the way around your head — even just a partial braid from one side to the other creates the illusion of a full crown effect. This braid then connects to your ponytail, creating a unified look.

Creating the Crown-to-Ponytail Effect

• Create a side part and braid a section of hair from one temple area back toward the opposite side of your head
• As you reach the back, gradually incorporate more hair so your braid widens slightly
• Secure the end of your braid with a small elastic or bobby pin
• Gather all remaining loose hair along with the end of your braid into a low ponytail
• Secure with a decorative clip positioned to cover where the braid meets your main ponytail
• The clip should be visible and intentional — it’s both functional and decorative in this style

Worth knowing: This works beautifully with texturized or wavy hair because the texture enhances the braid definition without requiring you to be perfect about braid tension or smoothness.

14. Sleek Clipped High Ponytail With Side Accent

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A high ponytail secured with a clip positioned to one side creates an asymmetrical, modern aesthetic. This variation on the classic high ponytail feels fresher and more current while maintaining all the practicality of a traditional ponytail.

The Asymmetrical Advantage

When your clip is positioned slightly to one side rather than directly center, it creates visual movement and prevents your ponytail from feeling too formal or severe. This offset placement makes the clip a design element rather than just functional hardware.

Styling This Look

• Blow dry your hair smooth or apply a light texturizing spray for grip
• Gather your hair high at the crown, securing it initially with an elastic for stability
• Position your clip so it sits slightly to one side of center — aim for about an inch offset
• Slide the clip over the elastic to cover it and secure your ponytail simultaneously
• Gently loosen the ponytail slightly by pulling a few small sections away from the clip to create softness
• The offset clip should be clearly visible, so make it a statement clip with color or texture

Pro tip: This style photographs beautifully from the angle that aligns with your clip placement, so position your clip on your better side if you’re taking photos.

15. Clipped Fishtail Wrap Ponytail

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A fishtail braid wrapped around the base of your ponytail and secured with a clip creates an unexpectedly elegant style that looks like it required serious skill to execute. The fishtail texture catches light beautifully and adds genuine visual interest.

Why Fishtail Wraps Look So Good

Unlike a regular braid wrap, a fishtail braid has a thinner, more delicate appearance that photographs beautifully and adds visual interest without looking heavy. The texture of a fishtail also catches light, creating dimension even in the wrap section.

Creating the Fishtail-Wrapped Ponytail

• Pull your hair into your ponytail and secure it temporarily with an elastic
• Take a thin section of hair from the base of your ponytail
• Create a fishtail braid with this section — don’t worry about making it perfect; slightly loose is more romantic
• Wrap your completed fishtail around the base of your ponytail
• Secure the end of the wrap with a bobby pin, then position your clip to cover the connection point
• Your fishtail texture should be visible, so make sure it’s not completely hidden by the clip
• Leave the actual ponytail slightly textured or wavy to echo the texture of your fishtail wrap

Insider note: If you’ve never tried a fishtail braid, this is actually the perfect application because the wrap doesn’t need to be perfect — a loose, slightly imperfect fishtail looks even more romantic and intentional than a tight, perfect one.

Final Thoughts

A clip is never just a clip — it’s an opportunity to transform your ponytail from practical to polished, from basic to genuinely considered. Whether you’re reaching for a tortoiseshell claw clip for effortless elegance, a metal barrette for minimalist sophistication, or a crystal clip for glamorous impact, your choice of hardware tells the world that your ponytail is intentional styling, not a default hairstyle.

The versatility of clip-secured ponytails means you can reinvent your look without actually changing your hair. Swap your clip in the afternoon and you’ve completely shifted your vibe from casual to professional, or from daytime to evening-ready. Your ponytail works just as hard as your clip does, creating a partnership between practical hair management and genuine styling.

Every single style here can be adapted to your specific hair type, length, and texture. If something doesn’t work quite as written, adjust the proportions, the clip size, or the placement until it feels right for you. That’s the real beauty of clip-secured ponytails — they’re endlessly customizable, forgiving, and always capable of making you look like you just stepped out of a salon, even when you’re creating the style yourself in thirty seconds before walking out the door.