How to Do a Sleek Braided Ponytail

Slick-back hairstyles are a mainstay of the “clean girl” aesthetic , along with other hairstyles such as buns and braids. And when you combine the slick back style with a braided ponytail, you get a beautiful, low-key look that's trendy, easy to maintain, and great for a number of hair textures, especially natural hair. 

But while the style may initially seem intimidating to do at home, it is actually a lot simpler than you think. The best part is  You’ll only need a couple of tools to get the slick braided ponytail of your dreams: Gel or hair putty, a brush, a scarf, a hair tie, and some braiding hair.

What Do I Need for a Sleek Braided Ponytail?

L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty

L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented

A paddle brush

A thin hair tie that matches your hair color

A satin scarf

Straight braiding hair

How Do You Do a Slick Braided Ponytail?

Step 1. Take the L'Oreal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty and slick back your hair with a paddle brush. The putty also works to give you texture and thickness to hold your look together, making it perfect for this particular style. 

Alternate adding the putty and brushing until you get your hair to the level of slick that you desire, then grab a hair tie and put your hair into a low ponytail. After that, wrap your hair with a scarf or styling stripsor 15 to 20 minutes to get it to set. 

Step 2. This style works on all hair lengths, but for maximum drama, most people will add extensions or braiding hair to get a super long and sturdy braid. To do so, grab the braiding hair and loop a hair tie in the middle of the bundle. Then loop the braiding hair bundle around the low ponytail you created with your hair in the first step, attaching it with the hair tie. Start braiding the braiding hair into your natural hair, while also being sure to leave out a section of hair so you can wrap the base of the braid with it once you’re done braiding.

Step 3. Once you get to your desired length and thickness, take the L'Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold, Light Hairspray Unscented and spray the length of the braid generously. This will keep the braiding hair together, as well as tame any flyaways that may appear.

Step 4. When you go to sleep, tie down your slicked back hair to keep it flat and  wrap the braid into a bun and cover it with a bonnet or silk scarf. Braided ponytails last for about a week or two, and it can easily be refreshed and re-done.

Next: 15 Hairstyle Ideas for Brides with Natural Hair

Written by: Témi Adebowale, Photo Design: Sarah Duvivier