41 Prettiest Half Up-Half Down Hairstyles For Every Hair Type

Show off your hair volume with these half up-half down hairstyles that suit everyone.

Reviewed by Richard Morrill, Cosmetologist Richard Morrill Richard MorrillCosmetologist facebook_iconlinkedin_iconinsta_icon
Written by Anjali Sayee, BTech Anjali Sayee BTech linkedin_icon Experience: 7 years
Edited by Subhrojyoti Mukherjee, MA (English) Subhrojyoti Mukherjee MA (English) linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Fact-checked by Anu Pallavi, BA Anu Pallavi BA linkedin_icon
Last Updated on

So, you have been staring at the mirror, holding your hair wondering – up or down.

How about both? Options for half up-half down hairstyles give you the power to mix and match, instead of simply sticking to an updo, low hairdo, or leaving your hair loose,

Whether you have to rush to a meeting, head out to a wedding, or go to the gym – there is a half up-half down hairdo for you.These hairstyles are in fashion and lifesavers for days you forget to wash your hair. They are easy to style in sleek, messy, chic, or elegant and in trend. You can even add a personalized twist to these hairstyles.

Scroll down and check out the top up-down hairstyles that are taking the internet by storm.

protip_icon Before You Get Started
  • Placement of the bun is crucial for half updos. Follow the eyebrow arches as a guide. Placing the bun behind the ears can widen and open up long faces.
  • The half-up, half-down hairstyles look flattering on thick curly, or wavy hair since they give definition and add movement to the hair. Straighter locks will require texturizing sprays to get the desired texture effect.
  • Getting lowlights and balayage can further add an illusion of depth and volume to your hair and spice up the half updos.
  • This hairdo needs hair-holding spray to keep it in place for an extended period. You can use a medium-hold spray to minimize frizz and flyaways.

41 Prettiest Half Up-Half Down Hairstyles

1. Lace Braided Half Updo

Lace Braided Half Updo
Image: Shutterstock

This lacey braided hairstyle is a wedding-perfect hairstyle. Why not style it in a half updo?

How To Do

  1. Weave a Dutch braid like a headband in the front section of your hair.
  2. Keep weaving till you get a long braid.
  3. Tease your hair and form a bouffant in the crown area.
  4. Now twist it and pin it to the bouffant in the crown area.
  5. Secure the entire hairstyle with hair spray.

2. Waterfall Braid

Waterfall Braid
Image: Shutterstock

Waterfall braids are a forever thing. To style it for your special date night, simply jazz it up with single braids.

How To Do

  1. Detangle your hair properly with a brush.
  2. Now, weave a waterfall braid from one side of your hair.
  3. Take sections of your hair and pass
  4. Keep weaving till you reach the crown of your head.
  5. Repeat the process on the side.
  6. Once done, secure it with bobby pins.

3. Braided Half Up Half Down

Braided Half Up Half Down
Image: Shutterstock

On the days you are feeling lazy or running late, this hairstyle is perfect for you!

How To Do

  1. Part your hair from the side into two halves.
  2. Take a section of your hair from one side.
  3. Weave a classic 3-strand braid from one side.
  4. Repeat the same on the other side.
  5. Take both braids and tie them together with a rubber band.

4. French Braid Half-Down Hairstyle

 French Braid Half-Down Hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

French braids are a hairstyle that showcase versatility and creativity, which are suitable for all face types and ages. Recreate this simple yet chic hairstyle in just a few steps.

How To Do

  1. Divide your hair into two parts.
  2. Start braiding from one side down to your neck.
  3. Repeat the same on the other side.
  4. Now, tie both together and leave the rest of your hair down.

5. Bouffant Half Down With Bangs

Bouffant Half Down With Bangs
Image: Shutterstock

Bouffant is always in style. Style the bouffant with bangs to give you a royal look.

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair neatly.
  2. Divide your hair vertically in two halves.
  3. Take two sections in the front and leave them open.
  4. Tease your hair in the crown area and make a classic bouffant.
  5. Secure the bouffant with bobby pins and hair spray.
  6. Now, take the front sections of your hair and brush them neatly.
  7. Curl the section and leave it open.
  8. Repeat the same on the other side.

6. Viking Braided Hairdo

Viking Braided Hairdo
Image: Shutterstock

Viking braids are badass and can be styled in many ways. This sexy hairstyle gained popularity post the show Vikings. This hairstyle usually includes 2 braids on either side of your head and a French braid in the middle.

How To Do

  1. Comb your hair neatly and start with a French braid.
  2. The braid must be in the middle of your head and should be till your lower ear lobes. Tie a rubber band around the end.
  3. Now, take a section from the right side of your head and weave a classic 3-strand braid like a waterfall braid that is passing strands of hair from the classic 3-strand braid.
  4. Repeat the process on the other side.
  5. Now, take both side braids and wrap them around the French braids to complete the look.

7. Victory Rolls

Victory Rolls
Image: Shutterstock

Whether it is going to a retro-themed party or just spicing up your daily hairdo, this hairstyle is a great way of standing out in the crowd. Style this retro hairstyle with your animal-printed long dress or your casual shirt and jeans.

How To Do

  1. Rub some mousse in your palms and apply the same to your hair from top to bottom.
  2. Detangle your hair with your hair brush.
  3. Part your hair vertically into two parts.
  4. Section horizontally to get two sections.
  5. Now, start rolling the front section of your hair in the inward direction with the help of your fingers. Wrap your curls around your index and middle finger of one hand.
  6. Repeat the process until you reach the scalp and take the fingers out.
  7. Secure the roll with bobby pins and hair spray.
  8. Repeat the process to get another roll on the other side.
  9. Once you have both the rolls, secure everything with hairspray and pins.
  10. Brush your hair one last time to complete the look.

8. Retro Bouffant Half Do With Bangs

Retro Bouffant Half Do With Bangs
Image: Shutterstock

Another retro look that will make you look stylish and fierce. Bring forth your badass side with this edgy retro hairstyle

How To Do

  1. Create a huge bouffant right at the front, leaving the bangs out.
  2. Brush the remaining hair and secure the bouffant with bobby pins.
  3. Now, add a headband in the front and your retro bouffant is all set.

9. Faux Waterfall Braids

Faux Waterfall Braids
Image: Shutterstock

If you love experimenting with different braid hairstyles, then this hairstyle should definitely be on your list. These elegant yet simple braids are ideal for your casual Sunday brunches. You can add some fun accessories to the hairstyle for date nights.

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair and remove all the knots.
  2. Take a section from the frontal area and divide that into 3 equal parts.
  3. Weave the first sequence of the braid.
  4. Incorporate another strand of hair into the braid.
  5. Continue the process till you reach the end of the ear.
  6. Now twist the entire braid sequence.
  7. Tie the end with a rubber band and complete the braid.

10. Half Up Half Down Bubble Braid

Half Up Half Down Bubble Braid
Image: Shutterstock

Be it a special event or a casual brunch with friends, these braids are perfect for any occasion. While this intricate hairstyle is super chic, it will only take a few minutes of your time to recreate it on a busy day.

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair to remove any tangles.
  2. Take a section of hair from the back and make a ponytail.
  3. Next, take hair from both sides of your head and make two classic 3-strand braids. Secure with rubber bands.
  4. Now, take hair from the top of your head and the braids from both sides of your head and start making a bubble braid.
  5. Brush through the rest of your hair and enjoy!

11. Grecian Braided Half Do

Grecian Braided Half Do
Image: Shutterstock

Grecian braids can be unique when you style them. This beautiful hairstyle adds uniqueness and elegance to your look.

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair neatly.
  2. Take strands of your hair from the back and weave twisted plaits.
  3. Each twisted plait must continue beyond the crown area.
  4. Continue on each side.
  5. After each side is done, pass through the plaits from the previous plaits.
  6. Make 6-8 plaits depending upon your hair length.
  7. Secure all the plaits with rubber bands.
  8. Once all the plaits are done tie each side with all the plaits with a rubber band.

12. Twisted Ponytail

Twisted Ponytail
Image: Shutterstock

Colorful bows in the hair just elevates the look to another level. This beautiful yet simple hairstyle can be recreated in a few minutes for your fun outings.

How To Do

  1. Start by curling your entire hair.
  2. Now take a section from one side and start rolling in.
  3. Twist and roll the curls on each side and finally secure them with a rubber band.
  4. Loosen a few waves of hair and add a bow–small or large.

13. Rose Crown Half Do

Rose Crown Half Do
Image: Shutterstock

This intricate and gorgeous rose crown half do will add instant glamor to your red carpet or date look. The hairdo is also one of the best half up-half down prom hairstyles, so if you have been searching for looks that can accompany you on your special day, then this can offer the ideal inspiration!

How To Do

  1. Take a section of your hair and make a classic plait braid and secure it with a hair tie.
  2. Form a bun by wrapping it around.
  3. Now take a thin section of your hair from the crown area and make another braid and form a bun.
  4. Repeat the same on the other side.
  5. Now to finish off the hairstyle, make two beautiful fuller-looking sleek braids and tie them with a band.

14. Multiple Braided Half Do

Multiple Braided Half Do
Image: Shutterstock

Does something simple and classic fascinate you? Then this stunning and regular 3-strand classic braid criss-crossed with French braids is for you.

How To Do

  1. Comb your hair neatly.
  2. Make two French braids by taking sections from the front.
  3. Now make two classic 3-strand braids on either side.
  4. Criss-cross the 3-strand braids and adjoin with the ending of the French braid to complete the look.

15. Zig Zag Twistback

Zig Zag Twistback
Image: Shutterstock

Are you a beach person? Then this hairstyle is perfect for you. Try it on your next vacation.

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair neatly.
  2. Now, take a section from the right side of your frontal area and make a French braid with 4-5 strands of hair. Secure with a rubber band.
  3. Now make another French braid just below the previous braid and tie it with a rubber band.
  4. Make another French braid on the other side.
  5. Now, tie all the braids together and let them flow.

16. The Voluminous Bouffant

The Voluminous Bouffant
Image: Shutterstock

This gorgeous retro look will take you back to the 90s in minutes. This is easy to style and is perfect for a themed party or a special occasion!

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair neatly and apply a volumizing spray.
  2. Create a rolled bouffant in the frontal area.
  3. Make big curls on all sides and brush to add volume.

17. One-Sided Dutch Braid

One-Sided Dutch Braid
Image: Shutterstock

This is such an adorable hairstyle for your picnic days. Recreate it now.

How To Do

  1. Start by curling your entire hair.
  2. Now, create a side part of your hair.
  3. Make a Dutch braid on the side.
  4. Once the braid is done, pull on your hair to give it a fuller look.

18. Twisted Fishtail Braids

Twisted Fishtail Braids
Image: IStock

Braids are for all occasions and they don’t have to be boring. Style them and slay every look.

How To Do

  1. After brushing your hair neatly, curl them.
  2. Divide the hair into halves.
  3. Take a section of hair from the front and make a fishtail.

To make a fishtail:

  1. Pull a thin strand of your hair from the right section.
  2. Now move it towards the left section.
  3. Tuck the same under the left section. Now, it is a part of the left section.
  4. Tuck the 2 sections and tighten them.
  5. Do the same for the other section.
  6. Repeat the process until you reach the end of your braid.
  7. Secure with a rubber band.
  8. Now, make two more twisted braids on either side of the fishtail braid.

19. Braided Hoop

Braided Hoop
Image: IStock

Hairstyles can be easy yet chic. This adorable hairstyle is apt for your mundane Mondays.

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair neatly.
  2. Now, take a few strands of your hair from behind your ears.
  3. Create a thin 3-strand braid and secure it with a rubber band.
  4. Repeat the process on the left side.
  5. Take both the braids and place them on the crown area.
  6. Secure them with bobby pins on the sides behind the ears.
  7. Brush the remaining hair neatly again and let them flow.

20. Curly Half Updo

Curly Half Updo
Image: IStock

Wedding hairstyles are a whole different ball game. The hairstyles should not only be unique but must accentuate your face and dress. Check out this hairstyle, it’s a pure work of art!

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair properly.
  2. Take a dollop of mousse in your palms and rub it.
  3. Now, rub your hair with the mousse in your hand.
  4. Grab all your hair and brush again to detangle it.
  5. Make two tight braids on each side of your hair.
  6. Make a little bun at the back and tuck the braids into the bun with bobby pins.
  7. Secure with spray and curl the ends.

21. OTT Half Knot

OTT half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Istock

This is a nice twist to the regular half top knot. You will definitely need a whole lot of attitude to pull this off. After all, it’s the grown-up version of the coconut ponytail!

Experienced cosmetologist and owner of HairNerd, Richard Morrill says, “Don’t forget your edge work. Your edges can get dry and frizzy while flat ironing your hair. Sloppy sections make for a sloppy hair style.”

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair down to remove any knots.
  2. Hold the top half of your hair and brush it upwards.
  3. There are two ways you can do this. You can tie a loose top knot with the ends hanging out and then wrap the loose ends around the bun to hold it tight in place. Or, you can wrap your hair around to create the stem of the knot and then tie the ends in the knot.
  4. Use U-pins to secure the hair in place.

22. High Half Ponytail

High half up-half down hairstyle
Image: IStock

This is another take on a classic cute kid hairstyle – the half coconut. If you have thick hair, go for it! It will show off your volume better than most other hairstyles. This is a great time to add a hairpiece for length. Use some hair gel to keep the pony tight. The edge work really ties this look together.

How To Do

  1. Hold your hair as you would a half ponytail and tie it with a big elastic band.
  2. Make sure it’s tight and secure so that the ponytail stays in place.

23. Semi Crown Half Updo

Semi crown half up-half down hairstyle
Image: IStock

Sometimes, a simple hairstyle is all you need to feel confident. Try this simple yet sophisticated semi-braided crown hairdo to ooze confidence.

How To Do

  1. Make sure your hair is curled and teased in the crown before you make your braid. Moving hair around once you have it in place can make the hair frizzy.
  2. Gather some hair from one side of your head and divide it into three sections: top, middle, and bottom.
  3. Weave a stitch of the regular braid, then drop the section of hair that was the top section.
  4. Add a new section of hair from the top, making it the top section, and weave another stitch.
  5. Continue braiding your hair by replacing the top section of the braid. This will create the waterfall look of your braid.
  6. Pin the braid on the opposite side of your head.

Kelsey, a blogger, shared her experience of tying her hair in a double-braided half updo that looks like a crown. Along with the tutorial, she shared that this is the hairstyle that she prefers when she’s dressing up or down. She said, “ I love the look of a thick braid, although small braids can be nice and delicate as well (i).”

24. Clipped Half ’Do

Clipped half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Decorative clips can add a graceful touch to a simple hairstyle. Just take a look at this hairstyle. It looks stunning!

How To Do

Using a thin comb, gather the hair from the top and sides of your head and comb it backward. Hold the hair at the back, below the crown, and clip it up with a fancy clip.

25. Flower Half Knot

Flower half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Who doesn’t appreciate the beauty of a flower? Not many! So, why not incorporate a flower into your hair to make it look surreal?

How To Do

  1. Using the pointed end of a rat tail comb, section off a two-inch wide section from the front hairline, up to the crown.
  2. Weave a Dutch braid with this section until you reach the crown.
  3. Tie the braid with an elastic band and wrap it around to form a bun.
  4. Pancake the braid to make it look like a flower.

Richard Morrill

offers a pro tip for hair grease, “Use a little dry shampoo after you get your hair up. This will help to clean some of your natural oils. When using a hair oil try to use it on your length and not the braid. Oils can get warm and make you look greasy too quickly.”

26. Twisted And Curled

Twisted and curled half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Curly hair and twists add a romantic flair to any hairstyle in all the best ways. Show off this gorgeous hairdo at a wedding or a red carpet event.

Richard Morrill adds, “This is the #1 preferred hairstyle when attending a wedding or any formal function. Incorporate some hair pins along the main twist to give it that much-deserved sparkle.”

How To Do

  1. This hairstyle can be achieved by some simple twists with alternating sections of hair and hair pins to hold them in place.
  2. If you have straight hair, curl it with a curling wand before doing the hairstyle.
  3. If you have curly hair, apply some curl defining cream before styling it.
  4. Finish off with a few spritzes of hairspray to set the half updo in place.

27. Slanted Braid Half Updo

Slanted braid half up-half down hairstyle
Image: IStock

The braid is a classic hairstyle. Why not style it in a half updo? It sure looks impressive. If you have straight hair, make sure you take your time curling them before you get started, to replicate this look.

How To Do

  1. Weave a Dutch braid, starting from one side of your head till near the crown.
  2. Keep adding hair to the middle section of the Dutch braid as you are weaving it.
  3. Secure it at the end with an elastic band.
  4. Wrap a small section of hair around the elastic band to hide it from view.

28. Crisscross Half Updo

Crisscross half up-half down hairstyle
Image: IStock

The zig-zag has been an inspiration for so many designs, so we obviously needed to incorporate it into a hairstyle. This half up-half down hairstyle is perfect for making an impression at a big event.

How To Do

  1. For this hairstyle, you’ll need a braid maker clip. Use a small or medium-sized one, depending on the thickness of your hair.
  2. Backcomb the hair at the top to add volume to it.
  3. Place the clip at the back and begin crisscrossing sections of hair from the sides. You need to create two big crisscrossed sections, so make sure you insert enough hair in the clip.
  4. Curl the ends of your hair and finish off with some hairspray.

29. Donut Half ‘Do With Braid Base

Donut half up-half down hairstyle with braid base
Image: Shutterstock

This half bun hairstyle is perfect for any and every occasion and as we already know buns and braids are the chicest ways to style updos. It’s only right for me to add them to this half up-half down list as well, especially when they create such a beautiful hairdo!

How To Do

  1. You’ll need a donut bun for this hairstyle.
  2. Gather the hair from the front and tie it in a half ponytail.
  3. Place your donut bun at the base of the ponytail by passing the ponytail through it.
  4. Hold the bun band in place with one hand and arrange the ponytail hair around it with the other.
  5. Insert an elastic band around the bun band to secure your hair in place.
  6. Brush the remaining hair down.
  7. From the ponytail, take two small sections of hair and weave them into braids.
  8. Wrap these braids around the base of the bun and pin them in place.

30. Simply Twisted

Simple twisted half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

This hairstyle not only looks lovely, but it also accentuates your facial features if you have a thin face.

How To Do

  1. Part your hair as you would normally.
  2. Twist the front section of hair from both sides and pin them at the back of your head.
  3. Curl your hair with a curling iron to add a romantic touch to this half up-half down look.
protip_icon Quick Tip
Wear hair accessories like button clips, flower clips, butterfly clips, or small fresh flowers to enhance the charm of this simple and cute hairstyle.

31. Accessorized Half ‘Do

Accessorized half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Accessories can do wonders for your hairstyles. They can transform a simple ‘do (that you would never consider sporting to a wedding) into an elegant one. When using real flowers in your hair, make sure to buy smaller flowers. Large flowers are hard to balance if you have thin hair and tend to get mangled in the process of placing them in the hair.

How To Do

  1. Tease your hair at the crown to create a pouf.
  2. Add hair from the sides to the pouf and pin it just below or at the crown.
  3. Accessorize with decorative clips or flowers.

32. French Half Knot

French half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

This is one of my favorite hairstyles. My hair tends to get greasy at the top, so I use this hairstyle to cover it up. It allows me to flaunt the rest of my hair, and I don’t need to wash my hair every other day (thank God!).

How To Do

  1. Section off a 4-inch section of hair from the front hairline to the crown, and clip off the rest of your hair.
  2. French braid this section of hair.
  3. Once the French braid reaches the crown, weave a regular braid the rest of the way down.
  4. Secure the end of the braid with an elastic band and wrap it around at the crown to form a bun.
  5. You can pancake the braid before tying it in a bun to make it look bigger.

33. Alternate Half ‘Do

Alternate half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

There’s something about alternate hairstyles that pulls us in. They’re simple and convenient to do when you’re in a hurry.

How To Do

  1. Gather the hair at the front and top of your hair and tie it in a regular half ponytail.
  2. Pick up a section of hair from the side, pass it over the half ponytail, and pin it a little on the other side.
  3. Do the same on the other side.
  4. Repeat the two previous steps to finish off the look.

34. Braided Switch

Braided switch half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Half updos and braids really go hand in hand! Take this lovely hairstyle, for instance. The braids look like nautical ropes and oh-so-perfect.

How To Do

  1. Comb your hair back, so it falls behind your shoulders.
  2. Gather some hair from one side at the front and weave it into a regular braid.
  3. Repeat the same on the other side.
  4. Secure both braids with elastic bands.
  5. Join both the braids at the back, placing one over the other, and pin them at the crown to hold them in place.

35. The Twisted Crown

Twisted crown half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

This is a very simple hairstyle where the asymmetry is quite underestimated as a regular ‘do. But, once you add in some elegant accessories, it looks stunning.

How To Do

  1. Take some hair from one side at the front and twist it. Pancake the twist to make it look bigger.
  2. Pin the twist near your ear on the opposite side.
  3. Repeat the same on the other side.
  4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 with thin sections of hair and pin them right under the first pair of twists.
  5. Don’t forget to accessorize with some fresh flowers.

36. Hair Tie Half Updo

Hair tie half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Elastic bands usually look unseemly and cannot be flaunted. That’s why I always use this tip to keep my hairdo looking on point – hair strands to cover up the ties! After all, why should something as simple as a hair tie ruin my look? If you have a ton of hair and you just don’t know what to do with it, this hairstyle will be your best friend. I know, I know. You wear a ponytail everyday, but this top pony will bring your sexy back.

How To Do

  1. Gather some hair at the top of your head to form a high half ponytail. Secure it in place with an elastic band.
  2. Take some hair from the half ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band to cover it up.
  3. Tuck the ends under the elastic band or use a hair pin to secure it in place.

37. Knotted Half Updo

Knotted half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

Some knots can be good for your hair! Try this simple hairdo when you are in a hurry and make heads turn.

How To Do

  1. Curl your hair with velcro rollers. You can leave them on overnight.
  2. Brush your hair back after detangling it.
  3. Take some hair from both sides and tie it in a knot below the crown.
  4. Use pins to secure the knot in place.
  5. Spritz on some hairspray to secure the knot in place.

38. Braided Pouf Half ‘Do

Braided pouf half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

This beautiful hairstyle has a timeless feel to it. Ok, shut your eyes and picture yourself dressing up for a party, dancing the night away, and having fun. Remember fun? This hairstyle would be perfect for those kinds of events.

How To Do

  1. Backcomb the hair at the top of your head, making it as big as you’d like. Pin it at the back along with some hair from the sides.
  2. Take some hair from the side at the front and weave it in a French braid, adding more hair only to the bottom strand. Pin it at the back of your head.
  3. Do the same on the other side.
  4. Pancake the braids, so they look like strings of hearts.
  5. Curl the ends of your hair to add a soft touch to this hair look.

39. The Bouffant

Bouffant half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

The bouffant is another half updo that has stood the test of time. It’s the perfect blend of art and sophistication.

Richard Morrill quips, “In Texas they say the bigger the hair the closer to God. In Colorado it’s called Mile High hair. Colorado is the only state in the USA where it is illegal not to use hairspray! Just kidding. All kidding aside, make use of a Bumpit or an iTeeze comb for you’re really going to have to put in a lot of work to get this style to stay up all night long.”

How To Do

  1. Brush your hair back so that it falls behind your shoulders.
  2. Divide your hair into two sections: top and bottom. Clip off the bottom section of hair.
  3. With the help of a rat tail comb, section off an inch of hair from the front, from ear to ear. This hair will act as the bangs for this hairdo.
  4. Tease the rest of the hair in the top section.
  5. Smoothen down the top of the teased hair with a comb.
  6. Gather and hold this hair below the crown, twist it twice, lift it up, and pin it in place to create a bouffant.
  7. Part the hair used for the bangs in the middle and curl it to frame your face.
  8. Curl the rest of your hair as well.
protip_icon Quick Tip
You can wear a printed and bright colorful bandana to enhance the bouffant hairdo and make the hair look bigger and thicker.

40. Pull Through Half Updo

Pull-through half up-half down hairstyle
Image: Shutterstock

I know you’re thinking this hairstyle looks complicated, but it really is not. It’s simple, and once you get the hang of it, I’m sure you’ll love it!

How To Do

  1. Section off hair from the center to form a center half ponytail and secure it at the crown of your head using an elastic band.
  2. On one side of the half ponytail, gather some hair and weave it in a French braid, keeping it parallel to the ponytail, until you reach the crown.
  3. Once you reach the crown, weave it a regular braid the rest of the way down.
  4. Repeat the same on the other side as well.
  5. Gather some hair from both sides and tie it into another half ponytail a little below the first half ponytail.
  6. Part the first ponytail in half, and pass the braids and second half ponytail through it at the center. Tie the first half ponytail with another elastic band under the braids and the second half ponytail.
  7. Repeat the same with the second half ponytail as you did with the first one.
  8. Continue this until you reach the end.
  9. Pancake the half ‘do to make it look elegant.

41. Half-Up Boho Braid

Colorful Boho braid
Image: Shutterstock

Boho braids are the biggest trend of the season. They look incredibly elegant, perfect for any occasion like a wedding or music festival. The best part is that you can try these braids on washed or greasy hair.

How To Do

  1. Gather hair from the front and hold it at the back just below the crown.
  2. Clip up that section of hair.
  3. Take a small section of hair from both sides of the clipped sections and weave them into thin braids.
  4. Secure them with elastic bands.
  5. Unclip the sectioned hair, divide it into three parts, and weave it into a regular three-strand braid. You can also try other braid variations such as a fishtail braid.
  6. Secure the end with an elastic band.
  7. Pancake the braids to add to the boho effect.

If you are going for one of the styles from above and want the style to hold and look fresh all day long, you will appreciate the expert tips given below. Read on!

Expert Tips To Keep In Mind While Wearing Half-Up-Half-Down Hairstyles

A woman with a half-up bun
Image: Shutterstock

Professional stylists recommend the following tips to ensure a long-lasting look with half-up-half-down hairstyles.

  1. Start With Clean, Prepped Hair

Wash and condition your hair before styling it. You can apply a lightweight mousse for grip and hold.

  1. Create Volume At The Crown

Tease the roots of the hair at the crown for added volume. You can use a fine-tooth comb for this. Gently backcomb in small sections to avoid damaging the hair.

  1. Section Your Hair Properly

Use a comb to create a clean, straight part where the top half meets the bottom. For a messier look, finger-comb the hair to give it a relaxed texture.

  1. Choose The Right Hair Ties

Opt for small, clear elastics or decorative clips that match the look you’re going for. For thicker hair, ensure the ties or pins you use are sturdy enough to hold the style in place without slipping.

  1. Add Hair Accessories

To enhance your look, add trendy accessories like pearl pins, barrettes, or even silk ribbons. These details can transform the style from simple to wow.

  1. Set The Style

After styling, set the look with a medium-hold hairspray to ensure it lasts throughout the day. This is especially important if you have curls or waves.

Infographic: 5 Easy And Beautiful Half-Up-Half Down Hairstyles

The half-up-half down hairstyles strike the perfect balance between elegance and effortless charm. They exude a romantic and bohemian vibe, ideal for weddings, proms, or casual outings. Whether you opt for a timeless or carefree look, these hairstyles beautifully complement any face shape and hair type. Check out the infographic below for some easy half-up-half down hairstyles you can try.

5 easy and beautiful half up half down hairstyles (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Half-up, half-down hairstyles have become quite popular these days, and why wouldn’t they? These hairstyles are perfect for all types of hair types and lengths. They are cute yet gorgeous and classy, all at the same time. You just need the right tools to achieve the best half-up, half-down hairstyle. But do not be disheartened if you fail to create your desired look on the first go. Practice till you succeed. Now, without any delay, take the tips from above, follow the tutorials religiously, and prepare to look amazing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What hair products work best for maintaining half-up-half-down hairstyles?

To maintain your half-up-half-down hairstyle, you can use a lightweight hairspray for hold and a texture spray for volume. These products can help keep your style intact throughout the day.

When were half up half down hairstyles popular?

Half up-half down hairstyles were most popular in the ’90s, though they are making a comeback now. Technically, they were never out of style since it’s a convenient fix for children to keep their hair out of their face.

How long can a half up half down hairstyle last?

A half up-half down hairstyle can last all day if you secure it with an elastic band/bobby pins and hairspray.

How do you style long hair half up?

Start by brushing your hair and taking a portion of hair from the crown of your head to style long hair half up. Tease the hair at the top of your head to add volume and secure it in a half-up ponytail with a scrunchie.

What is the half-up half-down hairstyle called?

A half-up ponytail is another name for the half-up half-down hairstyle.

What are some tips for maintaining the volume and shape of your half-up half-down hairstyle throughout the day?

To maintain the volume and shape of your half-up half-down hairstyle throughout the day, use styling products like hairspray, tease your hair at the crown, fix the half-up ponytail with bobby pins, and avoid touching your hair.

How can you incorporate different hair colors or highlights into your half-up half-down hairstyle to add dimension and interest?

You can get strategic highlights and create a half-up ponytail and let the rest of your hair down to showcase them. You can also get balayage coloring done which can add depth to your hairstyle, no matter how you tie your half-up half-down style.

What are some ways to create a more formal half-up-half-down hairstyle, such as by adding a bouffant or using hair extensions?

You can add a bouffant or hair extensions, twist or braid sections of your hair, or add a little accessory to achieve a more formal half-up, half-down hairdo.

Key Takeaways

  • Half up-half down hairstyles provide a versatile option, combining both style and comfort for any occasion.
  • These hairstyles are perfect for thick curly or wavy hair as they add shape and movement to the hair.
  • You can experiment with some of the coolest half up-half down hairstyles such as waterfall braid, twisted ponytail, victory rolls, and braided hoop.

Illustration: Prettiest Half Up-Half Down Hairstyles For Every Hair Type

half up-half down hairstyles

Image: Stable Diffusion/StyleCraze Design Team


Learn how to create a stunning half up half down hairstyle with a fishbone braid in this video tutorial. Perfect for any occasion, this look is sure to turn heads!

Personal Experience: Source

Was this article helpful?
thumbsupthumbsdown
disqus_comment

Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.

Richard Morrill
Richard MorrillCosmetologist
Richard Morrill is a cosmetologist with over 16 years of experience. He started his beauty quest at the age of 15. He attended beauty college in his junior year of high school. After completing his education, Morrill moved to Los Angeles with his rock group L.

Read full bio of Richard Morrill
Anjali Sayee
Anjali SayeeAssociate Editor
Anjali is an associate editor at StyleCraze. She specializes in hairstyles and hair and skin care and has written over 200 articles in these domains. She has 7 years of experience, and her philosophy about hair and skin care is simple: if you love and care for it, it will be healthy.

Read full bio of Anjali Sayee
Subhrojyoti Mukherjee
Subhrojyoti MukherjeeAssociate Editor
Subhrojyoti is an associate editor at StyleCraze with four years of experience. He has a master’s degree in English from Presidency University, Kolkata, and has also done a post-graduate certificate course in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University, Kolkata.

Read full bio of Subhrojyoti Mukherjee
Anu Pallavi
Anu PallaviBeauty & Lifestyle Writer
Anu is a beauty and lifestyle writer and a graduate of Amity University, Noida, where she refined her writing skills and cultivated her deep passion for the field. She pursued the Beauty Technician Training Program at Maquillage Beauty Institute, which has equipped her with practical skills in various beauty treatments.

Read full bio of Anu Pallavi
AFS