There are a few reasons the ponytail has been a go-to hairstyle for decades: It’s convenient, chic and completely understated. Still, achieving a polished look with a pony requires more than just piling your hair up and winding an elastic around it. While that’s fine if you’re heading to the gym, you probably want a little more drama for other occasions.

If you’re looking for a way to shake up your style, consider these ideas for a completely different take on the ponytail:

Sleek
A ponytail doesn’t have to be casual – in fact, it can be supremely elegant if you use the right products and techniques. Refinery 29 suggested taking a cue from the latest runways and opting for a super slick low pony. If you don’t have naturally pin-straight hair, use a flat iron to smooth it out. Part your hair down the middle and pull it into a pony at the nape of your neck. Then take a small section of hair and wind it around the elastic, securing with a bobby pin at the bottom. Split the pony into two sections, weave several inches into a fishtail braid and secure with another elastic. Then repeat your previous step and coil another thin piece of hair around the bottom, using a pin to hold it in place.

Tousled
A bedhead-inspired pony is alluring without being over the top. To get the look, use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo and only comb your hair enough to get the tangles out. Next, gently tease hair at the crown and pull back into three even sections. Begin to weave only the center and the right section like you were beginning a braid, then use a large pin to secure it from underneath so it’s invisible. Pull the left section and wrap it all the way around both pieces, pinning it at the bottom. The result? Imperfect yet irresistible.

Curly
Coils can add an unexpected playful bounce to your pony. After blowdrying your hair with a round brush, secure at the back of your head with an elastic. It’s up to you where you pile it – a high pony has a coy and girlish look while a low one looks elegant for the evening. Try wrapping the entire pony around a two inch curling iron barrel if you have fine strands, or dividing and curling multiple sections if your mane is thicker. Finish with a mist of strong hairspray to freeze your locks in place.