This week, we watched the international collections take place at Paris Fashion Week. Here, and at various innovative and impressive locations in New York, London and Milan, we’ve seen trends spanning minimal forever pieces, 70s-inspired dresses, 90s silhouettes and some epic outerwear. One of the key hair looks across all fashion week cities has been the low ponytail, a versatile and elegant hairstyle that truly works well for almost every occasion.

London-based designer Roksanda’s collection showcased bold and exaggerated shapes with striking colours, textures and patterns – and in other pieces a quieter, more fragile femininity. Inspired by British artist and sculptor Phyllida Barlow, Roksanda drew inspiration from her bold, sculptural forms and exploration of scale, which resulted in dramatic shapes commanding attention. Hair looks incorporated two high-impact low ponytail styles.

Anna Cofone, global creative advocate for Authentic Beauty Concept, explains the hair inspiration for the show: “The hair for the show was designed with a mix of textures to reflect both control and graphic structure while also embracing fragility and sensibility. We wanted the hair to be pushed-back, sleek and contained while introducing elements of texture. This was seen vividly in the semi-looped ponytail, which mimicked both sculpture and hair shape. There was a two-tier approach to the hair: one style had a gelled, pushed-back effect using the Cosmic Blowdry Jelly, while the other was a more broken-up, textured look. Some were wet – achieved by saturating the hair with the Glow Spray Serum for a sleek finish – while others were dry, and we treated the hair with Nymph Salt Spray to create a dry, textured effect.”

Hairstylist Sam McKnight is renowned for creating hair looks that women want, including his signature ‘cool girl’ effortlessly undone textured hair and fashionably timeless, elevated looks. He explains the appeal of the low ponytail: “Ponytails are a classic go-to style for a reason. They are the most versatile hairdo, whether your hair is long or short. Whether you want some casual or powerful. The height or texture of a ponytail can completely change the way you feel and carry yourself. A high, sleek ponytail can exude power and strength, whereas a mid-height, clean in texture style looks sporty. Low, with no parting and natural texture, can be relaxed and effortless, whereas a straight side-part and high-gloss finish has a masculine edge to it. Accessories can also really add personality, with slim black velvet ribbons, oversized scrunches and chic hidden hairbands (done by wrapping a thin piece of hair covered with gel around the band to cover) proving popular.  

In terms of the key products for recreating the look, McKnight says: “The easiest way to have versatility with your ponytail is to have fun with different textures. Try my Self Control Gel for sleek and glossy or Cool Girl Texture Mist for volume and an effortless finish. Happy Endings Nourishing Balm through the ends of your ponytail is a must – straggly ends are a no-no, regardless of the style you’re going for.” 

Images: Getty; Authentic Beauty Concept for Roksanda