18 Quick Topsy Tail Hairstyles For Kids

Topsy tails are a game-changer for busy mornings. They offer a polished look with minimal effort.

These styles work for various hair lengths and textures. You only need a few basic tools to get started.

Let’s explore eighteen creative ways to use this classic technique. These styles are durable enough to last all day.

1. Classic Single Topsy Tail

Start with a simple ponytail at the back of the head. Create a small gap above the hair tie and flip the tail through.

This creates a beautiful twisted effect that hides the elastic perfectly. It is the foundation for almost every other style on this list.

Ensure the hair is detangled before starting for the smoothest finish. You can tighten the twist by gently pulling the ponytail into two sections.

2. Double Topsy Tail Ponytail

Begin by sectioning the hair into two ponytails, one positioned directly above the other. Flip the top ponytail through itself first.

Incorporate the tail of the first twist into the second ponytail before flipping the lower section. This creates a continuous, woven appearance down the back.

This style is excellent for keeping hair secure during active movements. It works best on medium to long hair lengths.

3. Triple Stacked Topsy Tail

Divide the hair into three horizontal sections from the crown to the nape. Secure each section with a clear elastic band.

Flip each section individually, starting from the top and working your way down. Feed the previous tail into the next one as you go.

The result is a sophisticated faux-braid look that takes only minutes to achieve. It provides a structured look that stays neat for hours.

4. Topsy Tail Bubble Braid

Create a high ponytail and place elastics every two inches down the length of the hair. Each section will become a new twist.

Flip every individual bubble section through itself to create a textured, voluminous braid effect. This adds a unique twist to the standard bubble ponytail.

Gently pull at the sides of each twist to add volume and a “puffy” look. This is a great way to make thin hair appear much thicker.

5. Side-Swept Topsy Tail

Gather all the hair to one side of the neck and secure it with a soft elastic. Ensure the ponytail sits just behind the ear.

Create the flip by pushing the hair through the gap toward the neck. This creates a soft, romantic drape that looks very intentional.

This variation is perfect for more formal occasions or school photos. It keeps the hair out of the face while still showing off the length.

6. Topsy Tail Half-Up Half-Down

Section off the top half of the hair, from the temples to the back of the crown. Secure this section with a small tie.

Perform the topsy tail flip on only this top section while leaving the rest of the hair flowing. It adds instant style to a simple down-do.

This is a versatile choice for those who prefer having some hair loose. It prevents tangles by keeping the most prone sections secured.

7. Criss-Cross Topsy Tails

Create two small ponytails at the top of the head, one on the left and one on the right. Twist them both inward.

Cross the tails over each other and secure them into two new ponytails further down. Perform a second set of flips for a complex woven look.

This pattern looks intricate but relies entirely on the basic flip technique. It is a fantastic way to keep shorter layers tucked away.

8. Topsy Tail Pigtails

Part the hair down the center and create two even ponytails on either side of the head. You can place them high or low.

Flip each pigtail through itself to add a decorative element to this classic childhood style. It makes standard pigtails look much more professional.

Use colorful elastics to make the twists pop. This style is particularly durable for school days and playground activities.

9. Diagonal Topsy Tail Cascade

Start a small ponytail on the upper left side of the head and flip it. Add more hair to the tail as you move diagonally.

Secure the next section towards the middle and the final section towards the bottom right. Each flip pulls the hair into a beautiful slant.

This asymmetrical look is eye-catching and modern. It helps manage thick hair by breaking it into manageable, secured sections.

10. Topsy Tail Low Bun

Create a standard low topsy tail at the nape of the neck. Do not pull the hair all the way through on the final loop.

Tuck the remaining ends of the hair back into the pocket created by the flip. Secure the edges with a few bobby pins.

This creates a quick, elegant bun that looks like it took much longer than it did. It is a smart choice for humid days.

11. Reverse Topsy Tail

Instead of flipping the ponytail down through the gap, pull it upward from underneath. This creates a completely different volume profile.

The reverse flip pushes the hair out and up, creating a more dramatic and elevated look. It is often called an “up-side-down” twist.

This technique is excellent for creating height at the crown of the head. It works well for those with very fine hair textures.

12. Heart-Shaped Topsy Tail

Start with a half-up ponytail and flip it upward using the reverse method. Split the tail into two equal sections.

Twist each section outward and bring them together at the bottom to form a heart shape. Secure the ends with another elastic.

This is a favorite for holidays or special events. It utilizes the natural curves created by the twisting motion to form the shape.

13. Topsy Tail Mohawk

Create a series of small ponytails in a straight line from the forehead to the nape. Aim for four or five sections.

Flip each one and feed the tail into the next section below it. Keep the elastics tight for a structured, edgy appearance.

This style keeps all hair completely away from the face and neck. It is a high-fashion look that remains very practical.

14. Wrapped Topsy Tail Ponytail

Begin with a high ponytail and perform a standard flip. Take a small piece of hair from the tail and wrap it around the elastic.

This hides the tool used and gives the hairstyle a very high-end finish. It transitions well from school to formal events.

Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep the wrap in place. It adds a touch of sophistication to the basic twist.

15. Topsy Tail Crown

Start a small twist at one temple and continue adding sections in a circle around the head. Each new section incorporates the previous tail.

Follow the hairline all the way to the other side. This creates a halo effect made entirely of twists.

This style is perfect for keeping hair secure during long days. It mimics the look of a crown braid but is much easier to execute.

16. Double Topsy Tail Buns

Create two pigtails and flip them both to create the initial twists. Roll the tails upward and tuck them into the flip gaps.

Secure with pins or an additional elastic to create two symmetrical buns. These are often referred to as “space buns” with a twist.

The twists add a decorative base to the buns that makes them look more complex. It is a fun and playful option for any day.

17. Topsy Tail Accent Braids

Pick small sections of hair near the front of the face and create tiny topsy tails. Leave the rest of the hair down and natural.

These small accents add visual interest without requiring a full updos. You can do just one or multiple accents on each side.

This is the fastest way to add some flair to loose hair. It keeps the front strands from falling into the eyes.

18. Tiered Topsy Tail Pull-Through

Create a series of horizontal sections, but instead of one tail, split each tail into two to wrap around the next section.

This creates a voluminous, 3D effect that looks like a complex pull-through braid. It is the most advanced-looking style on the list.

Despite its appearance, it only requires basic elastics and the flipping motion. It is a show-stopping style for long hair.

What tools do I need for these styles?

You only need a few basic hair elastics and a comb for sectioning. While you can buy a plastic “topsy tail tool” to help pull the hair through, your fingers work just as well for most styles. A spray bottle with water can also help manage flyaways during the process.

Can these styles be done on short hair?

Yes, many of these styles are very effective on shorter hair lengths. The half-up, half-down version and the accent twists are particularly useful for hair that isn’t long enough for a full ponytail. You may just need to use smaller sections of hair to ensure the twist stays secure.

How do I prevent tangles while flipping the hair?

The key is to start with thoroughly detangled hair. Using a leave-in conditioner or a detangling spray before styling makes the flip much smoother. When creating the gap for the flip, make sure the hole is clean and even to prevent hair from snagging on the elastic.

Are these styles durable for sports or play?

Topsy tails are actually more secure than standard ponytails because the twist locks the hair in place. For high-energy activities, the triple-stacked or mohawk versions are best because they distribute the tension across multiple elastics. They are less likely to sag or fall out during physical movement.

Is it better to style hair wet or dry?

These styles can be done on either, but slightly damp hair often provides the best grip. If the hair is very clean and “slippery,” a little bit of texture spray or water can help the twists stay defined. Dry hair works perfectly well for a softer, more voluminous look.

How can I make the twists look fuller?

Once you have completed the flip, you can “pancake” the twist. This involves gently pulling at the edges of the twisted sections to spread them out. This technique adds significant volume and makes the hairstyle look much more professional and thick.

18 Quick topsy tail hairstyles for kids