12 Ponytail Alternatives

I've always been a fan of a classic ponytail. It probably has a lot to do with my 15-plus years cheerleading, where a pony was the only hairstyle option. Believe me, cheerleaders are serious about their ponytails; if any loose strands are seen during competition, you get points deducted -- and major death stares from your teammates.

Click here to see 12 ponytail hairstyle alternatives.

Even though I've stopped cheering, a ponytail is still my go-to hairstyle. After all, it's quick, easy and keeps my hair from hanging in my face. But lately, I've been rethinking my ponytail look. As much as I love the easiness of it, it can be a tad boring. Well that, and my best friend just asked me if I was trying to re-live my cheer life through my ponytail. I think it might be time for a hairstyle intervention.

To get started, I gathered a bunch of photos of hairstyles that use a ponytail as their base, but switch it up in some way. Even I -- master of the daily plain ponytail -- have to admit, these styles are pretty cool.

Click here to see 12 ponytail hairstyle alternatives.