Half-Up, Half-Down Braids: How to Do Them + 5 Styles

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Half-up, half-down braids give you the best of both worlds: the top section is braided or pinned back off your face, while the rest of your hair stays loose. They work for school, the office, weddings and everything in between.

Here’s how to do a basic half-up braid, plus 5 half-up, half-down braid styles to try.

How to Do a Half-Up, Half-Down Braid

Brush out tangles (or finger-comb curly hair).
Section the top half of your hair, from just above your ears up to the crown. The tail of a rat-tail comb helps you get a clean, even part.
Braid the top section. Try a simple three-strand braid, a French braid from the hairline or a fishtail braid.
Secure the end with a clear elastic. Leave it hanging, pin it into a small bun or tuck it under.
Pull out a few face-framing pieces and finish with a light mist of hairspray.

Twisted variation: Take a section above each ear, twist it toward the back of your head and pin both twists together. Add small flowers for a boho wedding look.

Half-Up, Half-Down Braid Styles

1. Voluminous Half-Up Curls

Voluminous half-up half-down curly hairstyle with braids

Tease the crown slightly before pinning the top section for extra lift, then let your curls fall loose.

2. Half-Up Top Knot

Twist the top section into a loose, messy bun for a quick, casual look that keeps hair off your face.

3. Half-Up French Braid

French braid from the hairline back to the crown, then let the rest flow. Swap in a fishtail for a more delicate texture.

4. Half-Up Braids for Short Hair

Half-up half-down braided style on short hair

Short hair is trickier, but small twists or braids along the top section still work. Pin each one back and let the ends sit naturally. Browse more short hairstyles.

5. Half-Up Crown Braid

Half-up crown braid wrapped around the head

Wrap a braid around the crown like a halo and leave the lengths loose. It’s a romantic choice for weddings and special events. See our guide to halo braids.

FAQs

Is a half-up, half-down style professional?

Yes. A neat half-up braid looks polished and keeps hair off your face, so it works well for the office and interviews.

How long does a half-up braid last?

On natural hair, a half-up braid usually lasts a day or two. If you add braiding hair to the top section, it can last a week or more.

Can half-up braids damage hair?

Not if they’re done gently. Avoid pulling the top section too tight, especially at the hairline.

Final Thoughts

Half-up, half-down braids are easy, flattering and suit almost any occasion. Want more ideas? Try these braided ponytail hairstyles.