You'd be forgiven for thinking we're back in 2K16. Long form beauty tutorials are back on the agenda (hello, YouTube), we've swapped the clean girl aesthetic for maximalist make-up, and the era's big hair moments are all the rage. Baby doll plaitshave been given a red carpet treatment, the bob brigade shows no sign of waning, and even ombre hair hues have had a serious revival. Another unexpected 2016 hair comeback? The snatched high pony.
Once the bedrock of Ariana Grande's style repertoire (yes, even the singer has brought it back in a newer form), the high pony is back in the spotlight once more. It was caught on Jessica Biel at the London VIP screening of Matchbox The Movie earlier this month. Fashioned by celebrity hairstylist Adir Abergel, her bronde lengths were extended into an XXL ponytail before being pulled back at the crown of her head. Tate McRae has long been locked into the style and made a play for it once again at the Tom Ford Spring/Summer 2027 show during Paris Fashion Week.
More recently, British Beauty Week 2026's recently revealed ambassador, Golda Rosheuvel, gave the look an update with a cropped length that skimmed her ears at the opening night of the landmark annual event. Even Meghan Markle made a play for the pony, albeit not as high but definitely as snatched, while visiting Nottingham this week.
Celebrity hairstylist, Jay Brimingham, says, 'the snatched high pony is a trend that will forever be a staple in the celebrity world, it comes back around every so often and portrays strength and sophistication. And, it’s big for 2026.'
The revival can be put down to a number of things. A yearning for nostalgia, comfort and all things familiar amid unsettling times. The fact that the return of bold beauty has paved a way for big, unapologetic hair moments. And then, there's the functional element. With the weather turning wetter and windier, a snatched pony feels like an easy hack for low maintenance hair that still reads chic.
'There are many reasons for choosing this look, one being it is very easy to maintain,' adds Birmingham. 'Prepped and styled correctly, this look requires very minimum maintenance and can last perfectly for the duration of a whole event, from red carpet to finish. As well as this, the style is very sophisticated and subtle, meaning the outfit can also have it’s moment.'
While it can certainly look 'done', depending on how you choose to wear it, the beauty of the snatched pony is how easy it is to achieve. Birmingham says arming yourself with the right brush is key to nailing the smooth, sleek style. He advises using a large paddle brush to gather your hair at the crown, 'while working around the head, ensuring each section is pulled back nice and tight, without any loose hairs or bumps'. Then, grab a fine tooth comb to gently brush any loose hairs into place at the crown. Birmingham's top tip? Use a snag-free hairband to secure the ponytail but be sure to leave a very small section of the hair loose and use this to wrap around the ponytail to cover the hairband for a seamless finish.
Shop: The snatched high pony essentials
Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, working across all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).
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