A Simple, Sleek Braid-Front Ponytail That Stays Put
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Even on the busiest days—or the sweatiest ones—there’s something about taking a few extra minutes to feel polished. A hairstyle that’s both functional and elevated can shift the energy of your entire workout. It’s part of the look good, feel good mindset that lives at the heart of The Align Edit.
This is my go-to gym style: a clean, high ponytail with two front braids tucked underneath. It’s preppy but unfussy, structured but soft. The braids lift the look just enough to feel styled, but the whole thing stays in place from the warm-up to the cool down.
Whether you’re heading to a pilates class, a treadmill walk, or just moving through your morning, this ponytail adds a little elegance to your everyday movement.
What You’ll Need
A strong hair tie (neutral or to match your hair)
Small elastic bands for the braids
A fine-tooth comb or brush
Optional:
lightweight styling cream
soft hold hairspray
Step-by-Step: Braided Front High Ponytail
Step 1: Brush and prep
Start with clean, dry hair—or day-two hair with a little dry shampoo. Use a brush or comb to smooth everything out and part hair naturally down the middle or slightly off-center.
Step 2: Section the front pieces
From each side, section off a 1-inch front piece (from around the temples). These will be your braids. You can clip them aside while you work on the ponytail.
Step 3: Create your high pony
Gather the rest of your hair into a clean, high ponytail that sits near the crown. Smooth the base and secure with a strong elastic. Brush out the ponytail for softness.
Step 4: Braid the front pieces
Unclip the front sections and create a small three-strand braid on each side, pulling gently toward the back of your head as you go. Secure the two braids together with a small elastic under or behind the base of the ponytail.
Step 5: Refine and set
Optional: wrap a small strand of hair around the ponytail base to hide the elastic. Smooth any flyaways with a touch of product. Keep the finish light, clean, and pulled together—but never stiff.
Why I Love It
It’s polished without being overdone. It holds through a full workout. It feels elegant, even in leggings.
Most of all, it reminds me that even simple grooming habits—like taking a few minutes to braid your front pieces—can completely shift how you feel walking into a space. Look good, feel good isn’t about vanity; it’s about alignment.
This style works as well for barre as it does for errands or casual workdays. And it always makes me feel a little more refined—even with sneakers on.
Styling Notes
For extra volume, tease the ponytail gently at the base
Add a preppy ribbon or scrunchie to the base of the pony
Mist the roots with dry shampoo before styling for grip
Perfect paired with a matching sports bra + leggings, clean crew socks, or an oversized sweatshirt
Coming Soon
My favorite beauty refresh routine post-workout
The best no-makeup makeup for movement days
Hair care essentials for active weeks and clean styles
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