7 Timeless Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles You’ll Want To Wear Everywhere
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3 days ago
These chic hairstyles will give your look an instant (half) lift
The easiest way to elevate your hair? Throw it into a half-up half-down hairstyle. This throwback classic never seems to fall out of fashion, and with styles ranging from quick and low maintenance to intricately curated, there’s plenty of space to play with the look. Below, we round up some of our favourite half-up half-down hairstyles for 2025, alongside tips from salon experts on how to get the look.
Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles Are Having A Moment (Again)
When it comes to classic hairstyles, few have stood the test of time quite like the ‘half-up half-down’. While originally a hit with the ancient Greeks and Romans – who wore their hair in intricate braids and buns with decorative hair accessories – the half-up half-down look is now more closely associated with the 1950s, when the likes of Audrey Hepburn and Brigitte Bardot made it popular amongst modern audiences. And now, it’s having another resurgence.
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But what exactly do we mean by half-up half-down? ‘Think of it as a happy medium between having your hair up and letting it down, literally,’ says Neale Rodger, Style Director at STIL. ‘You pull back the top section of your hair (crown and sides), secure it with a clip, ponytail or braid, and leave the rest to do its thing. It’s simple, versatile and works for just about any vibe from brunch to black tie. It’s also currently having a big moment on TikTok and Pinterest again, so we’re seeing it reimagined in lots of creative ways.’
It’s this capacity for creativity – as well as its versatility – that gives the look its popularity. ‘It’s timeless because it flatters almost everyone and suits so many different hair types and occasions,’ adds Jason Collier, celebrity hairstylist and founder of Studio23. ‘It offers the best of both worlds where the hair is off the face for a more lifted, defined look, but the down section keeps it looking youthful and relaxed. Its adaptability is what gives it such longevity, whether you’re heading to a wedding, brunch or just want a quick but elevated everyday look, it works.’
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Does It Work For All Hair Lengths?
In short: yes. While longer hair gives you more to play with, Neale notes that ‘shorter styles can totally join the party too. Even a mini half-up on a lob or bob looks super chic – just keep it simple and proportioned and use accessories for a boost.’
‘It’s all about working with the hair you have and getting creative with placement, volume and accessories,’ Jason adds, suggesting that for shorter hair, ‘pinning or twisting sections instead of pulling them into a ponytail can still create that classic half-up effect.’
Who Suits This Look?
This versatility also applies to hair textures. ‘This style works beautifully on all hair textures, from fine and straight to thick and curly,’ confirms Jason. ‘It’s a great way to add volume to finer hair by creating height on top, and with textured hair, it enhances the natural curl or wave pattern while still offering structure. For coily or afro hair, the half-up section can be sculpted into buns, knots or twists for an equally beautiful effect.’
‘Every hair type can pull off a half-up style you just need to tweak the technique,’ adds Neale. ‘Curls love a little moisture and definition, whereas fine hair benefits from texture spray or teasing at the roots, and thicker textures can go big and bold. It’s about working with what you’ve got.’
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And face shapes? ‘It’s super adaptable,’ says Neale. ‘If you want to elongate your face, add height at the crown. If you have a strong jawline, soften it with loose pieces or curtain bangs. Heart shaped works with a lower half-up ponytail to balance the top. There’s a version to suit everyone.’
Styling Tips
‘Don’t underestimate the power of texture and prep,’ emphasises Jason. ‘Using a volumising mousse or dry shampoo at the roots can give your half-up style longevity and lift. And always secure with bobby pins that match your hair colour for an invisible finish.
‘Hair accessories are back in a big way too,’ he adds, ‘so don’t be afraid to have fun with clips, bows and scrunchies to make the look your own.’
7 Half Up Half Down Hairstyles To Try Next
1. Slick Half-Pony
First up: a classic. ‘The slicked back half-up ponytail creates a clean, sleek and polished look,’ highlights Jason. ‘Perfect for short to long hair, it’s a versatile look for any occasion from work to a night out.’
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2. Half-Up Bun
It’s not all about the ponytails though – a cute bun does the trick too. ‘A half-up bun, with a relaxed, top-knot style bun with hair left down is another versatile take which is great for all hair lengths,’ says Jason.
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3. Braided Half-Up Crown
‘The braided half-up crown offers a romantic style featuring two braids meeting at the back. It looks gorgeous on wavy or textured hair,’ notes Jason. ‘Alternatively, twists on each side, pinned at the back creates a simple but elegant take, great for formal events or weddings.’
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4. 60s Inspired
You can also tap into a more vintage look. As Jason explains: ‘A big backcombed crown with soft curls for a retro, Brigitte Bardot-inspired feel gives a 60s inspired half-up, half-down style. This is ideal for medium to long hair.’
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5. Maximalist Accessories
And when in doubt, accessorise. ‘Adding hair accessories to the look, such as clips, bows or pearls can instantly elevate a half-up style for a cute or vintage-inspired look,’ Jason confirms.
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6. Twist & Clip
A claw clip also makes for a quick and simple half-up half-down hairstyle. ‘Twist back the front sections and pop in a statement clip,’ says Neale. ‘Easy and cute for a lob or layered cut.’
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7. Half-Up With Curtain Bangs
And for the ultimate holiday look, think bangs and bounce. ‘This gives such a continental feel,’ notes Neale. ‘Face framing bangs and pulled back volume? The result is only soft and stylish.’
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