A half up half down style is easy to achieve. You section hair above the ears into top and bottom parts. The top hair is secured above in different ways. Common ways include tying in a ponytail or braiding.
Are you trying to find an easy, elegant, yet low-maintenance hairstyle? The half up half down is the perfect solution. This go-to look has taken social media by storm but many are still unsure how to do half up half down hairstyles. With some simple techniques, you can get this polished style without spending much time.
The half up half down style is very easy and can be done in many different methods. To start, section hair evenly at the crown of the head. For the top section, hair can be tied in a ponytail, braided, twisted up or clipped back with a barrette. The bottom section is left flowing free or curled with a straightening iron or curling wand. Flowers, pins or headbands can accessorise the look. When styling the bottom layer, try beach waves, ringlets or loose curls for texture.
Choosing the Right Style for Your Hair Type
Check your hair texture first. Thin hair works best with softer styles that don’t pull the hair. Try braiding or twisting the top part to add volume without weight. For wavy hair, embrace the natural bounce. Let the bottom layers fall freely and secure top pieces loosely.
Thicker hair can manage more structured styles. Ponytails and buns stay put all day. Just be gentle during brushing and styling to avoid breakage. Curly hair loves playful shapes. Scrunch in mousse or gel first for texture. Then do a half-pony to showcase spirals. Build on your type’s assets and this look suits any hair well. Select styles considering thickness, texture and potential problems to ensure success and confidence.
Securing the Top Section with an Elastics or Barrettes
To secure the top section, gather the hair you want up. Then slide on an elastic hair tie closely against the scalp. For a smooth look, opt for thin ties over thick ones. You can also use pretty barrettes or slim claw clips instead of a tie. Make sure the top section sits above the ears so the style is clearly divided.
Test that the elastic or barrette grip is tight by gently pulling on the top part. You don’t want any slipping. For fine hair it may help to use two ties crossed over each other. Twisting the hair slightly before securing can add staying power too. Leave the bottom section flowing free once the top piece is anchored well. Check it throughout the day if the look needs adjusting.
Adding Volume to the Bottom Layer
For limp bottom hair, use a round brush to backcomb small sections while blow drying. This lifts the roots to add fullness without bulk. Focus the heat while brushing away from the head all around. Start at the back and work your way around.
Alternatively, curling the ends under with a small curling iron or rollers ramps up the volume overnight. Simply wrap strands of bottom hair around the barrel and hold for 5-10 seconds before releasing. In the morning, fluff out the waves with your fingers. For wavy hair, scrunch in a quarter-sized dollop of thick cream or mousse at the roots. Shake and bounce your head to puff it up.
Curling the Bottom Hair for More Style
Take medium sections of the bottom hair and run a curling iron over them one by one. The barrel should face downwards. Hold it for 5-10 seconds to set the wave but not overcook it. Repeat over the whole bottom layer, rotating your head as you go. Make sure to spray with heat protectant spray beforehand to shield hair from damage.
For loose beach curls, wrap strands loosely around the iron. This results in soft waves. For bouncier curls, wrap hair tightly and hold a little longer before releasing the curl. Let curls cool fully before brushing your fingers through them for a tousled look. Secure the top half up once bottom hair is curled to completion to enjoy your styled half up style.
Doing a Rope Braid with the Top Section
To rope braid the top section of hair, gather it into a ponytail first. Then separate the hair into three strands as you would for a regular braid. Instead of crossing the strands under each other, twist them tightly around each other going forward. Keep the braid close to your head.
Secure the braid with an elastic band when complete. Spread out the braid so it is loose and wavy looking rather than tight. Then use your fingers to gently shape it if needed. Leave the bottom hair flowing free around your shoulders. Hairspray the braid lightly for added hold throughout the day. Admire your cute half up style in the mirror!
Creating a Simple Ponytail Up Top
Gently brush the top section of hair upward. Gather it tightly yet comfortably at the back of your head. Slide a thin elastic band just below the tip of the hair tie. Don’t pull it too tight and potentially cause headaches.
Once secured, fluff the ponytail outward and upward. Use your fingers to shape it full and voluminous. Spritzing hairspray provides firm hold all day. Remember to leave face framing pieces loose at the front for a softer look. With the bottom hair freely flowing, your easy half up style is complete. Touch up during the day if needed stays looking sleek.
Adding Soft Curls All Over
Section hair from top to bottom, curling strands with a 1-inch curling iron. Keep the sections small, about 1 inch thick all over. Wrap each section around the iron, holding for 5-10 seconds before releasing. Repeat on a full head of hair.
Once hair is fully curled, run fingers through to loosen any tight curls. Gather top section hair and secure it with an elastic at the back of head. Adjust bottom curls as needed by backcombing roots with fingers for added volume. Finish by misting a light hairspray to set the tousled curls. Adore your sleek yet playful curly half up style!
Incorporating Flowers or Pins
Add pzazz to your half up look with accessories tucked just above the ear. Delicate flowers like daisies or baby’s breath nestle nicely. Or opt for bejewelled pins, slicked back to subtly shine.
Gently insert picks midway into the braid, ponytail or bun atop your head. Make sure they are angled upright to accentuate rather than weigh down your style. Place them on opposing sides for visual balance. Stand proud and feel that special extra touch of flair accessorising brings to any half up half down ‘do. Your choice beauty item completes the fun look.
Choosing the Perfect Part
For a half up style, choose a defined part on one side of the head. A straight or diagonal part works best. Ensure it’s centred over the ear for balanced framing of your face.
Test loose side-swept bangs or thicker face-framing pieces too. See what flatters your features most before securing your hair. Adjust after gauging the mirror. A distinct part makes for a polished look overall no matter which half up design you decide on wearing your hair.
Styling It for Work or an Interview
For professionalism, keep the style sleek and tidy. Opt for a tight ponytail or bun up top instead of loose braids. Ensure no flyaways by lightly brushing hairspray onto your palms and patting all over.
Dress up the bottom half with nice waves curled with an iron. Keep the overall look simple though – avoid many accessories or ribbons that may feel too casual. First impressions matter, so clean lines serve you well for important meetings or presentations. Your groomed half up style shows effort yet feels comfortable too for a great look all day at the office.
Adding Texture with a Twist Out
To achieve the “Hairstyle Braids” look, start by taking sections of wet hair and twisting strands in opposite directions using your fingers. Carefully braid these twisted sections to add texture and intricacy to your style. Allow the braids to dry fully overnight, ensuring they retain their shape. In the morning, gently unravel the braids and scrunch them out with your hands to reveal soft, defined waves.
This creates smooth waves and definition. Gather the top portion neatly and secure it with an elastic. For the bottom layer, fluff out the curls and twists with your fingers to maximise texture and volume. Admire how the twist out method livens up your half up style with subtle movement. Finish with a bit of oil or cream to nourish your locks.
Protecting Your Style with Hairspray
Mist hairspray in light layers all over for style longevity. Starting from the roots, spray sections individually while brushing with your fingers. This sets and smooths down flyaway. Spray the final look down also once complete.
Opt for a firm hold hairspray to ensure it lasts all day. Reapply if humidity causes drooping. Keep extra spray handy for touch-ups. Hairspray shields your half up look from elements that could disrupt it. Your stylish coiffure stays looking polished thanks to the protective coating of spray.
FAQs
How should prom hair be styled, half up, half down?
To do half up half down prom hair, secure the top half of hair with bobby pins and leave the bottom half down in curls or straight. Add accessories like flowers for a polished look.
How to do half up twists?
To do half up twists, gather the top half of your hair and twist sections going up and pin them at the back of your head, leaving the bottom half down in twists or curls.
How to half braid hair?
Part your hair slightly off-centre. Begin a French or Dutch braid on one side of the hairline and braid several strands down to the bottom of your hair. Leave the other side loose.
How to do a cute half up ponytail?
Gather the upper half potion of your hair and style it into a high ponytail with an elastic or ribbon. Let the front sections fall loosely around your face and pin them back halfway.
How to pin back hair half up?
Part your hair lengthwise across the top of your head. Gather the front sections and pin them back securely with bobby pins or hair clips at the back of your head. Allow the bottom half to remain loose.
Conclusion
The half up half down hairstyle can happy any hair type. This style offers many easy options like braids, buns and curls. Choosing techniques that suit your hair ensures great results. You may secure just the top and let bottom hair flow free. Or add detail all over. Find what you like best for how to do half up half down hairstyles. Experimenting discovers your favourites.
Most importantly, have fun with this trendy look. Feel free to accessories or change your part. Half up styles take little time yet look polished and casual. With practice, you will master how to do half up half down hairstyles. Always prepare your hair first before starting any style. Whether dressing it up or keeping it simple, this look suits any occasion.