Celebrity hairstylist shares how to create the perfect slicked-back ponytail

shopping

Exclusive

by Hannah Southwick

If you buy through links on our site, Page Six may receive compensation or an affiliate commission.

This slicked-back style is by no means a one-trick pony.

When stars like Jennifer Lopez and the Kardashian-Jenners want a dramatic power ponytail for a photo shoot or red carpet appearance, they turn to celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimmons.

“I love wearing ponytails because historically they've been considered a casual style, but I think they can be very fashionable and editorial,” the hairstyling guru tells Page Six Style, adding that she often gets surprised reactions when she wears the “wow factor” extensions.

Still, you don't have to struggle to style long hair on your own: Fitzsimmons recently partnered with Bellami to create a line of at-home clip-on ponytail extensions ($195 and up), which we tried out in person with the expert.

“There is no damage, [it’s] “It's specifically designed so as not to affect actual hair growth,” he says of the easy-to-apply look.

Whether you're using extensions or not, Fitzsimmons recommends slicking your hair back with a product like SheaMoisture Strong Hold Styling Gel ($10), which she says is “great for all hair types” and “adds shine and moisture without drying out your hair.”

He also keeps a boar bristle brush like Denman's D82M The Finisher ($33) on hand to create a “sleek, firm base,” as well as U-shaped bobby pins ($8) to keep extensions in place.

When it comes to hot tools, Fitzsimmons swears by the GHD Platinum+ Styler ($279) to achieve a rockin' “glass hair” effect.

“It's my go-to tool for perfecting and elevating straight hairstyles, leaving hair perfectly smooth and shiny – it's essential for creating the perfect, glossy ponytail,” he praises.

And when it comes to the finishing touch, Fitzsimmons uses her haircare brand's Prism Shine Invisible Shine Spray ($16) “to make the ponytail look healthy and lively without weighing it down.”

In addition to creating countless ponytails for the Kardashian-Jenner sisters (including a “pierced” version of Kourtney's perfect Ariana Grande Halloween costume), Fitzsimmons has designed his trademark slicked-back hairstyles for everyone from Halsey to Shay Mitchell.

I normally don't know how to style hair extensions, but thanks to this professional styling instruction, I can personally say that I've started to enjoy styling my extensions on a regular basis.

Sporting a high ponytail all day, my hair stayed shiny and frizz-free all day, making me feel like it could withstand anything, including humidity.

The pony itself is a classic, but Fitzsimmons knows why it's a classic.

“[It] “It accentuates your facial features in a really subtle and beautiful way,” he says, “and the glossy finish makes it quick and easy to style for any occasion.”

Why Trust Page Six Style Shopping

This article was written by Hannah Southwick, commerce writer and reporter for Page Six Style. Hannah spies on the affordable styles celebs are really wearing, trys on Hollywood's favorite brands, and finds the beauty products that keep stars in red carpet-worthy shape. She consults stylists and industry pros (including celebs themselves) for first-hand product recommendations, trend predictions, and more. In addition to writing for Page Six since 2020, her work has also been featured in USA Today and Parade.