28 Stunning Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles You’ll Want to Try ASAP

two beautiful woman with their half in half up and half down hairstyles

When it comes to hairstyles, few looks are as versatile and timeless as the half-up, half-down. It’s the hairstyle equivalent of having your cake and eating it too. You get the best of both worlds by pulling some locks away from your face while letting the rest flow freely. Whether you wield a curling wand like a pro or prefer to keep things simple and sleek, this style suits every hair type, length, and occasion.

From casual coffee runs to black-tie events, prom, homecoming, graduation, and even work, we’re showcasing 28 half-up, half-down hairstyles to spark your imagination. Plus, we’ve got styling tips and product recommendations to help you achieve the look.

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Hairstyles 101: Why You’ll Love the Half-Up Half-Down

Before we jump into the styles, here’s why this look has stood the test of time:

It works on all hair lengths. Long for intricate styles? Perfect. Short hair? Equally chic.
It pairs well with all occasions. Keep it lowkey for a grocery run, or fancy it up for date night.
It’s suitable for all textures. Straight, wavy, curly, or coily? Bring it on!

But enough chit-chat. Let’s talk hairstyles!

two women with their hair in half up and half down hairstyles one with a casual style and the other a more elegant style for prom

28 Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles That Are Half the Effort, Twice the Style

1. The Classic High Pony

young woman with a half up half down high ponytail hairstyle

A no-nonsense option that pulls back the top half of your hair into a high ponytail while the bottom remains loose. Simple yet polished. PRO TIP? Use a smoothing serum for a sleek finish with no fly-aways!

2. Half-Up Wrap Around Bun & Loose Curls

woman with a half-up half-down hairstyle with loose curls and a wrap around bun

Pull your hair into a bun, leaving the rest of your hair down. Twist the hair from the top of your head and wrap it around the bun for a polished and elegant look. You get an updo vibe without all the commitment. Excellent for Sunday brunch.

3. Side-Swept Glory

woman with beautiful side swept half up and half down hairstyle

Sweep the top and side sections of hair to one side for a dramatic, face-framing effect. Pin the other side back with a bobby pin and add a flower or a bit of greenery for a whimsical touch. This hairstyle works perfectly for an outdoor wedding, particularly for bridesmaids.

4. Messy Bun & Bandana

young woman with long wavy hair and a half-up half-down hairstyle with a messy bun and bandana

For a laid-back look, try a messy bun while simultaneously leaving the rest of your hair wavy and free. Then, tie a bandana around your head so it resembles a headband. This style is perfect for summer days or music festivals and can add a fun dash of color to your outfit.

5. Statement Bow

young woman with a half up and half down hairstyle with a ribbon bow

Add a giant bow over your ponytail for a playful, eye-catching accent. Because who said bows are just for kids?

6. Half-Up Top Knot

woman with half-up half-down hairstyle with a top knot

High bun, but make it half. This adorable style is ideal for those days when you just want to grab coffee and be cute.

7. Crown Braid Queen

woman with a half-up half-down hairstyle using a crown braid

Style the top section into a crown braid for a fairytale feel. Add flowers for garden party vibes, or leave it simple for everyday wear.

woman witha half-up half-down hairstyle with a crown braid

8. Loose and Romantic

woman with a half-up half-down hairstyle that is loose and romantic

For a style that’s effortlessly charming, go for a loose and romantic vibe. Think half-up, half-down with soft, flowing waves that feel ethereal and timeless. Leave a few delicate strands framing your face—they’ll add texture and create that dreamy feel everyone loves. Suitable for weddings, date nights, or any time you want to exhibit soft elegance!

9. Accessorized Half-Up

young girl with an accessorized half-up half down hairstyle with pearls

Add a burst of personality with jeweled pins, funky clips, or a dainty ribbon. Accessories can instantly change your look from sweet to statement.

10. Short Hair Space Buns

Short-haired ladies, rejoice! Space buns are not just for those with long locks. This trendy look can easily be achieved by twisting your hair into two small buns on the top of your head. Add some sparkly clips or a bold headband to elevate the style even further.

11. Long Hair Double Buns

woman with long hair in a half-up half-down hairstyle with double buns

If you have long hair, why settle for just one bun when you can rock two? The double bun trend has taken over social media, and for good reason – it’s fun, cute, and can work for many occasions. Add some braids or twists to create a more elaborate look.

12. Sleek, Straight, & Subtle

woman with a partial half-up half-down hairstyle

For a sleek, sophisticated, and subtle variation of a half-up, half-down hairstyle, try this on for size! Straighten your locks with your flat iron and add a deep part. Then, tuck one side behind your ear and pin with a bobby pin. This hairstyle is great for formal events or even just a night out on the town.

13. Waterfall Braid Envy

woman with half-up half-down hairstyle for medium hair with a waterfall braid

A waterfall braid blends beautifully into the loose lower section of your hair for that effortlessly intricate look.

14. Half-Up Braided Low Bun with Loose Waves

woman with half-up half-down hairstyle wuth a low bun

Turn heads with this half-up, half-down hairstyle that’s equal parts elegant, romantic, and boho. With braids, loose waves, and face-framing tendrils, it’s a hairdo for weddings, brunches, or any time you simply want to look fabulous!

15. Crown Braids with Unique Design

back of woman's head with a braided half up half down hairstyle

Unleash your inner princess with this fairytale-worthy hairstyle! Crown braids bring the magic, while soft curls add just the right amount of “I woke up like this” elegance. We love this style for weddings and bridesmaids!

16. Short Hair Glam With Scarf

Short-haired gals, rejoice! Put the top section up with bobby pins or a mini clip. Then, add a colorful scarf to make a bold and playful statement.

17. Partial Retro Bouffant

beautiful,black girl with half up half down hairstyle

For a retro-inspired look, make a part in the middle and pull the hair back with a hair tie. Then, backcomb the crown to create volume and secure it with bobby pins. Instant throwback!

18. The Twisted Elegance

woman with a half-up half-down hairstyle that is twisted

With breezy, tousled waves, twists pinned at the crown, and face-framing tendrils, this style is the epitome of effortless elegance. Perfect for a date night or any event where you want to exude grace and charm.

19. Braided Headband

young woman with braided headband half up half down hairstyle

Two simple braids can add flair to any hairstyle. Braid a small section of hair around the crown of your head from each side like a headband, then pin it into place for an easy but chic look.

20. Messy Bun with Braid & Waves

young woman with a messy bun and wavy hair and braid

Who says messy hair can’t be glamorous? Add a small braid to the side of your head and secure it low, near the ear. Then, create a high, messy bun on the top of your head. Leave some loose waves around your face and behind the bun for a relaxed yet stylish look.

21. Cornrows & Natural Curls

For those with natural curls, cornrows are a great option to show off your ringlets while keeping your hair out of your face. Create eight rows of small braids going back from your hairline, and leave the rest of your hair down in its natural state for a stunning and low-maintenance look.

22. Sophisticated High Bun & Straight

woman with a half-up half-down hairstyle that is a sophisticated high bun

We love this hairstyle for any formal event or business meeting. To create this look, simply gather your hair into a high ponytail. Then, twist it into a bun while securing with bobby pins. Finally, use a flat iron to smooth out the rest.

23. Bouncy Curls & French Braided Sides

woman with formal hairstyle with bouncy curls and french braids

For an absolutely striking prom or graduation day look, why not try this picture-perfect hairstyle? Create loose curls throughout your hair with a curling iron or rod, then braid small sections of hair on each side of your head in a French braid pattern.

24. Dutch Braids & Natural Curls or Waves

womanw ith naturally a curly hair hairstyle

For a semi-bohemian effect, create two Dutch braids on each side of your head and secure them at the back. Then, define your curls by using a curling cream throughout the rest of your hair. This creates a carefree look that’s suitable for festivals or outdoor events.

Another variation of this look, if you have naturally wavy hair, is this one!

25. Box Braids Half-Up & Half-Down

Gather the top half of your braids into a loose ponytail, and you’ll be ready for a day out with friends or a casual date night. You may also add some hair accessories like beads or clips to elevate this hairstyle.

26. Voluminous Hollywood Glam

young woman with a half-up half-down hairstyle featuring loose waves and a low bun that is side swept

Combine old-school glamor with modern appeal. Style loose, glossy waves or curls and sweep to one side. On the other top side, put your hair back loosely into a low bun for red-carpet-ready vibes. With the right dress and makeup this could be gorgeous for a wedding!

27. Messy Bun and Bangs

young woman with a half-up half-down casual hairstyle

For a soft and feminine look, try a messy bun paired with delicate bangs. It’s a cute way to keep your hair out of your face while still looking well put together.

28. Half Up & Half Down Prom Perfection

young girl with a half-up half-down hairstyle for prom

Think soft waves, shoulder-skimming glam, and a fashionable X of rose gold clips holding back the top. It’s whispered romance meets polished perfection—basically prom hair goals.

Styling Tips for Half-Up Half-Down Perfection

Here are some tried-and-true tips:

Texture matters. Use a texturizing spray to create grip for braids and twists.
Shine on. Add hair oil for glossy, healthy-looking locks.
Secure it. Don’t skimp on bobby pins and elastics to keep everything in place.
Tools to love. A curling wand, flat iron, and smoothing brush should be your go-to gear.

Products We Recommend:

Texturizing Spray: Ouai Texturizing Wave Spray
Hair Oil: MoroccanOil Treatment
Shine Booster, Fly-away, & Frizz Tamer: Kenra Platinum Serum
Curling Styling Tools: Enzo Milano Curling Rod
Straightening Tools: TYMO Ring Hair Straightener Brush or FHI Heat Platform Plus Ionic Tourmaline Ceramic Styler
For Curly Hair Product Recommendations: Curly Hair Must-Haves: 12 Hair Products Absolutely Worth The Hype!

What’s Your Next Half-Up Hairstyle?

Consider half-up, half-down hairstyles to be your blank canvas, ready for any creative spin you can think of. Whether you prefer simple and low-key or intricate and bold, there’s a version for you. Why not try out a new look today?

Which of these lovely half-up and half-down hairstyles is your favorite —we’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below!

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