Focusing on my favorite version, an unfussy, fast, messy pony, I created the look with the help of some tools, starting out and finishing with the EcoTools Ultimate Air Dryer Hair Brush. This brush not only helps to dry hair 40% faster, but also is extremely gentle, perfect for the backcombing involved in this style.
In order to achieve a ponytail similar to the one featured at top, apply volumizing mousse to the hair roots and lengths, dry the hair with the EcoTools Ultimate Air Dryer Hair Brush, and add in some texture or “beach waves” spray a few minutes into the drying process. With a big barrel curling iron, loosely curl the ends in varying directions, gather, and secure with an elastic at the mid-crown. Add some dry shampoo for even more matte texture to the lengths and crown, and mess up a bit by lightly scrunching the hair. Use a distinctive elastic, like mine picture with some hardware on them for extra visual interest, or wrap the hair around the elastic and secure with a bobby pin to conceal it.
Full Disclosure: This post is brought to you by EcoTools. All opinions are my own.