Whether it’s rather messy or uber-dressy, the timeless ponytail will always look effortlessly sexy and chic. Not to mention how pretty, sophisticated and ladylike this simple hairstyle looks! And the next season’s runway shows strongly confirm the fact that ponytails represent a permanent hair trend. However, stylists come with new versions and seasonal updates.

When it comes to speedy styling, nothing can beat the relaxed-looking ponytail. Gianfranco Ferré and Dries Van Noten opted for the side parting, while House of Holland, Jaeger London, Philosophy and Diane von Furstenberg chose the no parting style. The great thing about ponys is that they work for all hair types. Moreover, with just the minimum amount of effort you are good to go in no time and you can still look beautiful. Remember that you don’t have to go for the perfectly groomed version and might consider leaving a few free-flowing natural strands for a slightly unkempt yet extremely alluring style.

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsGianfranco FerréGianfranco FerréDries Van Noten

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsHouse of HollandFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsJaeger London

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsDiane von FurstenbergFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsPhilosophy

At ADAM and Christian Cota the parting is made in the middle keeping the pony lower and a little bit messy. When trying this type of hairstyle, make sure to part your hair straight in the middle, especially if you are used to wearing it on the side. Calvin Klein and Christopher Kane went for the saturated, modern, super-sleek version that looks more like the mermaid-inspired with a just-stepped-out-of-the-sea wet effect. At Kane, Paul Hanlon made interesting graphic twists using a wide-tooth comb across the sides of the head, and a smaller one to the simple ponytail. Don’t be afraid to dare this trend as the wet look makes the final result looking even more special and edgier.

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsADAMFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsChristian Cota

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsChristopher KaneFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsCalvin Klein

If there were perfect ponytails, how would they look like? Sleek and tight to the head or naturally romantic? That depends on personal preferences, features, but also the occasion. However, there is something extraordinary about sleeker ponys which makes them so lovable. Take for example the fall/winter 2011-2012 ponytail trends. Simple enough for the office and sophisticated enough for special events, the ponytail styles seen at Akris, Brioni, Barbara Bui, and Ralph Lauren are definitely a smart choice.

Even more daring and with a grown-up glam flair are the ponytails spotted at Emanuel Ungaro and Versus. The secret behind this utterly chic finish is the flawlessly polished and smooth look. You should apply a finishing wax and then gather your hair up into a ponytail and secure it with an elastic. You may also add a personal touch by using a different band.

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsAkrisFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsBrioni

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsBarbara BuiFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsRalph Lauren

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsEmanuel UngaroFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsVersus

Outrageously sexy and feminine is the ponytail style seen at Gucci, BCBG Max Azria, Marc Jacobs, Max Azria, Versace, or Louis Vuitton. The apparently dull and simple hairstyle looked amazing with that one hair section wrapped around the pony’s base, perfectly camouflaging the elastic band. This is the trick that can take you from casual and office-appropriate to night-out with your friends or a glamorous appearance. Try to have fun and experiment with your hair styling by trying lower or higher variants. This way you’ll never get bored.

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsGucciFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsBCBG Max Azria

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsMarc JacobsFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsMax Azria

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsVersaceFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsLouis Vuitton

Curls and waves look great and can give your look a retro feel. At Paul & Joe and Lela Rose ponytails look simply chic and intensely elegant. Besides, at Valentino and David Koma ladylike accessories are so lovely and complement the look wonderfully. Therefore, take some rollers and a simple ribbon and get ready to style those beautiful tresses. It’s gorgeous long hair reinvented and made oh-so-alluring and cool.

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsPaul & JoeFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsLela Rose

Fall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsValentinoFall/Winter 2011-2012 Ponytail TrendsDavid Koma

Photos courtesy of elle.com, style.com