Half Up Half Down Braids: The Ultimate All-Season Hairstyle

Key Takeaways
  • You can personalize the look by choosing different types of braids, such as fishtail, French, or Dutch, to match your style or the event.
  • Braids help secure the hair, making this style ideal for keeping your hair in place and looking great throughout the day.
  • You can enhance the style with accessories like ribbons, flowers, or pins to add a touch of creativity and individuality to your braids.
  • Half-up, half-down braids are a heatless hairstyle, promoting healthy hair and reducing the need for styling tools.
  • Depending on how you style them, these braids can have a bohemian appearance, offering diverse fashion choices.

Contents show

Braids are a fantastic hairstyle that women and girls of all ages can wear. There are so many different braids that you’ll never have to try monotonous hairstyles with your hair again.

Try a braided half up-do and see what we mean! This technique can be applied to long, medium, or short hair, depending on the look you’re going for and how much time you have to put into your hair every morning.

Half up half down braids and hairstyles are impressive yet straightforward. These looks are worth adding to your styling repertoire, no matter what your hair length, texture, or color may be. There’s more to this style than meets the eye!

What Is Half Up Half Down Hair?

Half up half down hair is simply a style where your hair is in two sections: one section is pulled back and styled into a braid or ponytail, while another section (the lower half) of your hair is left down without any styling.

Is Half Up half Down An Updo?

Half up half down is a variation of the classic updo hairstyle. It incorporates soft curls along with a half updo so you can be classy and carefree at the same time.

Half up half down hairstyles are trendy for weddings because of their semi-formal and romantic vibe.

How Do You Do Half Up Half Down Braids?

With braids, there are hundreds of possibilities of how to style them. The type of hair or braid you have and your taste and preference will also play a role in picking out different styles. 

Check out this video tutorial for four quick and simple half up half down braided hairstyles you can wear on different occasions.

Before You Get Started

  • Ensure your hair is clean, well-conditioned, and free from split ends before starting your half-up and half-down braids.
  • Guard your hair against heat damage by applying a quality heat protectant product, especially if you will be using styling tools.
  •  Make sure your braids are securely tied at the ends to prevent them from unraveling throughout the day.
  • Apply anti-frizz products to keep your hair looking sleek and smooth, especially for flyaways around the edges and nape.
  •  Experiment with different braid styles and adornments to suit the season and personal style.

Perfect Half Up Half Down Braids 

We’ve got some stunning inspiration if you’re looking for a new hairdo to spice up your life. These styles can be achieved with a little bit of hair spray and bobby pins. Happy styling!

1. Fishtail Crown Half Up Half Down Braid

Fishtail Crown Half Up Half Down Braid

Image by @shimmerforyoullc via instagram

Fishtail braids are unique, but making them look casual and relaxed can be a bit tricky.

The French fishtail half up half down braid is one of our favorite simple styles. If you have wavy hair, you’ll love it!

2. Waterfall Half Up Half Down Braids

Waterfall Half Up Half Down Braids

Image by @braids_by_valeriya via Instagram

Braided hairstyles are in fashion, so try a waterfall braid half-updo to give your hair a more laid-back, bohemian vibe.

It’s an effortless look that makes it seem like you didn’t spend hours on your hair.

RELATED: 31 WONDERFUL TWO FRENCH BRAIDS HAIRSTYLES YOU WOULD LOVE

3. Short Bob Half Up Half Down Braids

 Short Bob Half Up Half Down Braids

Image by @weddingforward via pinterest

This cute braided hairstyle will flatter any face and bring volume to straight hair. Perfect for any season, this style brings texture and oomph factor to otherwise dull hair!

4. Feed-In Braids Half Up Half Down Hairstyle

Feed-In Braids Half Up Half Down Hairstyle

Image by @Simone Love via pinterest

This style is excellent for fine hair that needs a beautiful protective style!

Tie a bun on your crown with the front braids and secure it with some bobby pins—the braids at the bottom half flow down the shoulders for a perfect protective hairstyle.

RELATED: 35+ MOHAWK BRAID HAIRSTYLES TO TRY OUT RN!

5. EasyHalf Up Half Down Braids With Flowers

EasyHalf Up Half Down Braids With Flowers

Image by @fabmoodmagvia pinterest

Which girl doesn’t like to wear her hair half-up and half-down? It’s a great option if you have an off-the-shoulder dress or shirt that you want to showcase.

Also, it’s a perfect hairstyle for bridesmaids!

6. Half Up Half Down Fishtail Braid  With Messy Curls

Half Up Half Down Fishtail Braid  With Messy Curls

Image by @serhattas92505 via pinterest

Fishtail braids are all about versatility and creativity. This hairstyle is excellent for women with short to medium-length hair, and it works well with wavy, straight, or curly hair types. This style is so adaptive that you can wear it on any occasion.

7. Casual Cornrows Bun Half Up Half Down Braids

Casual Cornrows Bun Half Up Half Down Braids

Image by @Braid Hairstyles via pinterest

Cornrows are classic scalp braids that look gorgeous with a half-up half-down bun.

To take these beautiful braids up a notch, accessorize them with multicolor rings. You can effortlessly rock this style in medium or long hair.

8. Knotted French half Up Half Down Braid

 Knotted French half Up Half Down Braid

Image by @lookosm via pinterest

This hairstyle is chic, easy to do, and super versatile. You simply need to pull hair into a loose French and secure it with a knot to create it.

You can also pull some strands loose around your face to soften things even more.

RELATED: 41 GORGEOUS TWO BRAID HAIRSTYLES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR EVERY OCCASION

9. Half Up Half Down Lace And Bubble Braids

Half Up Half Down Lace And Bubble Braids

Image by @terttiina via instagram

It is a fantastic hairstyle for school girls. After seeing it, the first thing that comes to your mind will be, How can I get such a cool style for my little girl?! It’s not a complex style to recreate, and it looks great on young and adults alike!

10. Cornrows And Box Braids Ponytail Half Updo

Cornrows And Box Braids Ponytail Half Updo

Image by @curlycrazeofficial via Pinterest

This lovely style starts with cornrows combined with standard box braids

Once they’re complete, pull them back into a high half ponytail and wrap a couple of braids around it to finish the look!

11. Half Up Half Down Side Braid with Loose Curls

Half Up Half Down Side Braid with Loose Curls

Image by @braidhairstylescom via pinterest

Long, loose curls are beautiful and chic. But sometimes, you don’t want your hair to be only about free flowing hair.

So why not try a half-up half-down style?! Put your hair up in a side braid, but with enough free-flowing locks, so it doesn’t take attention away from your natural waves.

12. Half Up Half Down Minimal Scalp Braids With Long Curls

Half Up Half Down Minimal Scalp Braids With Long Curls

Image by @inspiring_hairstyles via Pinterest

It’s a classic half-up half-down style, but with a twist. Two cornrow braids are tied up in a cute little ponytail to add volume and texture to your hair, essential for hairstyles like these. 

RELATED: 45 GORGEOUS HALF UP HALF DOWN PONYTAILS TO GO FOR

Quick Guide to Half Up Half Down Braids: Seasonal Hairstyle 

  • Versatile Style: Half-up half-down braids offer a versatile and stylish look suitable for any season.
  • Hair Health: Prioritize hair health by applying heat protectant before styling and using sulfate-free shampoos to maintain braid longevity.
  • Seasonal Variations: Adjust your braid styles for each season, opting for protective styles in harsh weather and lighter looks in warmer months.
  • Scalp Care: Maintain a healthy scalp by cleansing regularly, moisturizing, and avoiding tight braids that can stress hair follicles.

13. Half French Braid With Pearls

Half French Braid With Pearls

Image by @fabmoodmag via Pinterest

French braids are a great option if you’re in a hurry and want to pull your hair up with minimal fuss.

The style is classic and elegant, and it’s relatively easy to achieve on any length of hair. Adorn your braid with some pearls for an instant upgrade to this simple do!

14. Boho Bridal Half Up Half Down Braids

Boho Bridal Half Up Half Down Braids

Image by @loveyouwedding via Pinterest

Boho-chic hairstyles are all about relaxed hair that looks effortless.

This style takes just a few minutes to create but will look so elegant and pretty, and your friends will ask you what salon you got it done at!

15. Half Up Half Down Knotless Braids

Half Up Half Down Knotless Braids

Image by @timelesshairstyles via Pinterest

These half up half down braids for little girls are perfect for springtime. These braids look gorgeous, and any hair length or texture can wear them.

Accessorized with a purple ribbon, your little girl will happily flaunt her new hairstyle!

16. Double Braid Messy Half Up Half Down Hairstyle

Double Braid Messy Half Up Half Down Hairstyle

Image by @casey_wiegand via Pinterest

When it comes to braided hairstyles, there are plenty of them. Most work best for either medium or long hair, but this can be executed on any hair length.

It is a perfect laidback hairstyle for any season and occasion.

RELATED: A FULL GUIDE TO DIY HIGHLIGHTS ON DARK HAIR

17. Half Up Braided Crown

Half Up Braided Crown

Image by @righthairstylesvia Pinterest

Nothing is boring about a half-up braided crown hairstyle. It is a stunning hairstyle that looks fabulous in any setting, whether at a wedding or prom.

The best part of all, a half-up braided crown will make you look like a princess!

18. Beaded Box Braids Crown Half Updo

Beaded Box Braids Crown Half Updo

Image by @lookosm via Pinterest

A box braid up-do looks super cute, especially when paired with earth tone beads.

It’s simple and trendy, and you will see a lot of supermodels are rocking their natural hairstyles this way, even if they wear them slightly differently than we would at home.

19. Triple bun Half Up Half Down Braids

Triple bun Half Up Half Down Braids

Image by @themajormag via Pinterest

It’s perfect for special occasions, proms, and weddings because it is not too intricate and allows you to have fun with your hair color.

This type of braid is best if you don’t have a lot of time to put your hair in a half-up style but still want something easy and elegant.

20. Half Updo with Bun and Loose French Braid

Half Updo with Bun and Loose French Braid

Image by @hadviser_com via Pinterest

If you’re looking for a unique style that looks feminine and flirty, try a half-updo with a loose French braid.

Start by dividing your hair into two sections. Create a braided and twisted bun with the upper half. Then, loosely braid the lower section of hair down to your shoulders.

RELATED: LONG SHAG HAIRCUTS FOR EVERY OCCASION

21. Updo with Thick Double Crown Braids

Updo with Thick Double Crown Braids

Image by @Rameen786786 via Pinterest

The hairstyle looks fresh and simple. Thick and voluminous crown braids are a natural way to add glamor to your everyday hairstyle.

Crown braids are glamorous and yet still very understated, so they work in any season or occasion!

22. Scalp Braids Ponytail Half Updo

Scalp Braids Ponytail Half Updo

Image by @Y7321eLcaMatteirne via Pinterest

The braided ponytail is an intelligent way to get an incredible and intricate hairstyle to transform into something unique.

Young girls who want a beautiful protective style will love this hairdo!

23. Half Up Half Down Braids With Pink Ribbon

Half Up Half Down Braids With Pink Ribbon

Image by @ artesademaocheia via Pinterest

It is a versatile hairstyle that will go perfectly with any casual outfit. This stunning hair is suitable for any hair length and ideal for medium to long length hair.

The best part is that you don’t need to be a hairdresser to get it done!

  Keep In Mind

  • Scalp Health: Keep your scalp clean and well-moisturized to promote hair growth and comfort.
  • Tension Control: Avoid braids that are too tight to prevent hair damage and discomfort.
  • Seasonal Adjustments: Adapt your style to the season, choosing protective styles for winter and lighter looks for summer.
  • Hair Protection: Use a heat protectant when using styling tools to shield your hair from heat damage.
  • Regular Maintenance: Maintain your braids with proper care, including refreshing the half-up style as needed and re-braiding sections that become loose or frizzy.

24. Half Updo With Single Middle Braid and Half Bun 

Half Updo With Single Middle Braid and Half Bun 

Image by @meghan_spratt via Pinterest

It is a super cute style that will get you tons of compliments. To start, make a cute braid out of your hair, and then once it’s finished, we wrap it around and into a bun.

It is an easy yet elegant hairdo. We love this braided half up half down because it’s so versatile!

RELATED: THE BEST MEDIUM LENGTH HAIRSTYLES FOR FINE AND THIN HAIR

25. Intricate Side Braid Half Updo

 Intricate Side Braid Half Updo

Image by @weddingforward via Instagram

If you are looking for a unique hairstyle, you should try out a braided half updo. This hairstyle is perfect for medium hair length and brings a fun modern touch to your look.

Start by applying some pomade or gel to help keep your hair in place while braiding it. Then, gather all your hair at one side of your head and weave it into a simple single plait.

26. Half Up Half Down Hairstyle With Cornrows And Twisted Bun 

Half Up Half Down Hairstyle With Cornrows And Twisted Bun 

Image by @love_hairstyles via Pinterest

This half up half down hairstyle is made by twisting cornrows on top of a head and then wrapping hair around to form a bun.

Twisted buns have always been a favorite with celebrities because they make your hair appear voluminous. 

27. Double Dutch Half Up Half Down Braids

Double Dutch Half Up Half Down Braids

Image by @love_hairstyles via Pinterest

This hairstyle is a perfect look for almost any occasion. It is simple and elegant, yet sassy and fun.

Double Dutch braids ending in twin pigtails instantly transform a simple do into a more playful style. It’s also an effortless style to try out.

28. Half Up Half Down Ghana Braids

Half Up Half Down Ghana Braids

Image by @HairstylesAndBeauty via Pinterest

Ghana braids are used to create a variety of hairstyles. Go for this hairdo if you like an elegant updo without much effort.

The best thing about ghana braids is that they never fail to produce a stunning look! The protective style makes for quite a stylish one as well.

29. Half Up Half Down Style With Crown And Bubble Braids

Half Up Half Down Style With Crown And Bubble Braids

Image by @gisellemadrid32 via Pinterest

This hairstyle takes a little effort to create, but it’s so worth it.

Try a combination of crown braids and scalp braids with a middle bubble braid to dress up a simple look. Also, let a few curls hang loose for extra texture and volume.

30. Fountain Ponytail Half Up Half Down Braids

Fountain Ponytail Half Up Half Down Braids

  Image by @terraglam via Pinterest

It is a charming braided half up half down hairstyle. It’s perfect for medium hair since it will make your hair appear much longer than it is.

We like that you can wear it during any season, and we think it’s a simple but highly versatile look. 

31. Curly Hair Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Curly Hair

Image by @xenia_stylist via Instagram

A twisted wispy half updo will flawlessly enhance your appearance, whether you’re seeking a style to match your prom or bridesmaid’s dress.

32. Gorgeous Blonde Half-Up Half-Down Braids

 Gorgeous Blonde Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Image by @kaylaannehairco via Instagram

A half-up, half-down hairstyle with curls will make you look more cuter and more romantic if you have lovely, long, thick hair. A few floral bobby pins can help you complete your hairstyle.

33. Twisted Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Twisted Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Image by @mateusgibertone via Instagram

Women with thin hair can also have half-up, half-down hairstyles.

You hit the jackpot if you can locate a talented hair colorist who can balayage your locks for more volume!

If you style your hair in a half-up style with waves and twists, you won’t have to be concerned about having fine hair.

Pro Tip

To add a touch of elegance, wrap a small section of hair around the hairband, securing your half-up braid for a polished finish.

34. Halo Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Halo Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Image by @nicoledrege via Instagram

The females with long, wavy hair need something simple and delicate to replicate.

The braids are joined with a delicate knot, and the halo holds the volume in place at the top. For a laid-back vibe, slightly rough up the bouffant crown.

35. Boho Bridal Half-Up Half-Down Braids

 Boho Bridal

Image by @blushandmane via Instagram

Why not try this simple half-up if you want to try a messy hairstyle? A boho element is added to the overall appearance by loosely braiding beachy curls with texture.

36. Bubble Half-Up Half-Down Braids

 Bubble Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Image by @amanibazzi_ via Instagram

Bubble Half-Up Half-Down Braids feature two braids framing the face, gathered into bubbled sections with clear elastics.

Hair cascades loosely below, combining youthful charm with elegant flair. Girls with longer hair look particularly lovely in this one.

The prettier your knotted bubble braid will appear, the more locks you have!

37. Multiple Twists & Soft Waves Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Multiple Twists & Soft Waves

Image by @natasha.astylist via Instagram

This updo makes the most of the rope-like texture and complements it with slightly undone waves, in contrast to many half-up, half-down hairstyles that twist the side strands back into some sort of twist.

38. Sleek Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Sleek Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Image by @botiashairandmakeup via Instagram

Half-up, half-down hairstyles are popular among females, but you may also create a refined version.

This hairstyle looks beautiful and chic in contrast to the Bohemian variant, which is adorable and wonderful.

39. Beach Vibe Half-Up Half-Down Braids

Beach Vibe

Image by @manes.by.madyy via Instagram

Here’s a cute example of quick, do-it-yourself half-up, half-down hairstyles. If your hair isn’t naturally curly, add loose waves, tie a knot, and enjoy the praises!

40. High-Contrast Crown Half-Up Half-Down Braids

High-Contrast Crown

Image by @gibertoneacademy via Instagram

You shouldn’t overlook little yet remarkable elements like the side fishtail braids that were smoothly transformed into another type of plaiting, even if this style draws attention with its dramatic color scheme and complex braiding.

41. Half up half down Knotless Box Braids

Half up half down Knotless Box Braids

Image by @bluehairguru via Instagram

Half-up, half-down knotless box braids combine the elegance of knotless box braids with a trendy hairstyle.

The top section is half-up, showcasing the scalp, while the remaining braids cascade freely. A stylish and versatile look for various occasions.

42. French Half up half down Braids

French  Braids

Image by @sabrinadijkman via Instagram

This idea is sweet and delicate, with a loose French braid as the crown. What is there to dislike about it?

42. Creamy Blonde Mermaid Waves Half up half down Braids

Creamy Blonde Mermaid Waves

Image by @kasia_fortuna via Instagram

Stop here if you’re looking for half-up, half-down hairstyles for a particular occasion! Ethereal are these entrancing waves with a lift on the summit and a few twisted side parts.

43. Lush Curtain Bangs Curly Half up half down Braids

 Lush Curtain Bangs

Image by @barbara.szuksztul.lenarczyk via Instagram

You may achieve this look with straight or curly hair, but you must request long, graduated face-framing pieces to fully replicate the dreamlike effect.

44. Voluminous Fishtail Ashy Half up half down Braids

Voluminous Fishtail Ashy

Image by @studio_one_hairandfacedesign via Instagram

With unkempt plaiting and haphazard waves, this smokey hair achieves the free-spirited vibe it needs.

45. Textured Medium Length Half up half down Braids

 Textured Medium Length

Image by @svglamour via Instagram

The teased pony and voluminous half-up braid provide a dynamic texture that will round off your fashionable everyday appearance.

46. Eye-Popping Flowers Half up half down Braids

Eye-Popping Flowers

Image by @sandimonzon via Instagram

These incredibly beautiful rose buds undoubtedly provide a striking focal point, but the sophisticated color splotches packed in regular waves might also stand out.

47. Ginger Red Hair Half up half down Braids

Ginger Red Hair

Image by @clairehartleystylist via Instagram

It makes sense to apply parts of the aesthetics of mid-80s dimensional crimp half updos to a contemporary style if you long for them.

48. Massive Dutch Half up half down Braids

Massive Dutch

Image by @hairdo.byvera via Instagram

This bohemian hairstyle creatively completes the look with precisely defined hair strands at the top and merges expertly crafted braiding with tousled waves.

49. Graduated Twists Half up half down Braids

Graduated Twists

Image by @adnomoreira via Instagram

A gorgeous combination of bents made with dimensional twists, loosely plaited fishtail braids, and a tight infinity braid inserted in between are displayed on this copper hair as an admiring canvas.

Fun Fact

Braided hairstyles have a long history that transcends cultures and time. The ancient Egyptians adorned their hair with intricate braids, often using accessories and beads, showcasing the enduring appeal of braiding throughout history.

50. Ponytail Prom Half up half down Braids

Ponytail Prom

Image by @sarah_harrington__ via Instagram

Shine at the last major school function. Create an airy half-updo with a huge, puffy bouffant and loose generous waves to make the most of your hair’s texture.

 

51. Infinity Half up half down Braids

Infinity

Image by @hairbytara_c stephhstyles via Instagram

The Infinity Half Up Half Down Braids is a trendy hairstyle that combines elegance and versatility.

It involves weaving intricate braids on the top half of the head while leaving the remaining hair flowing gracefully.

This style offers a unique blend of sophistication and casual charm, making it perfect for various occasions.

52. Thin Hair Half up, half down Braids

 Thin Hair Half up, half down Braids

Image by @irinafarfallina via Instagram

Among the most common half-updo style options. For an event, loose curls can be braided together, and the volume can be emphasized with thin braids at the crown.

Conclusion

Half up half down braid are a beautiful way to dress up your hair. It is a romantic look adored mainly by brides and bridesmaids.

Also, you will find half updo, a preferred style for proms and special occasions. Put in some loose waves or curls in your hair, and you have an elegant hairstyle that can take you from day to night with ease.

Take inspiration from these fabulous styles shared by us and create a unique new look. Let’s see what your friends say about your half up half down braid!

Tina Cole
Share

Leave a Comment