You truly can’t go wrong with a half up, half down. Special enough to be wedding-worthy, but simple enough to feel comfortable. Whether you’re after something romantic, playful, classic, or totally unique, this versatile style has endless variations to suit your vibe. Keep scrolling for 12 beautiful ideas that strike the perfect balance between relaxed and refined.
What is a half up, half down wedding hairstyle?
A half up, half down wedding hairstyle is any hairstyle where the bottom half of your hair is loose and down, and the top half of your hair is tied up in some way. You can be as creative as you like when it comes to how you section. Whether it’s a twist, braid, or accessorising the top half—that’s what makes this style so popular. Bonus, it works for every hair type, length, and wedding vibe.
Boho chic wedding hairstyles
Boho chic styles are all about flowing styles, hair flowers, and an effortlessly undone feel. Check out our top three boho chic hairstyles for inspiration.
1) Half up fishtail braid
You may need a little help from your bridal party to do one of these yourself. Simply split your hair into two sections (top and bottom) and have someone braid the length of the top section into a fishtail braid. It’s worth watching a YouTube tutorial on fishtail braids if you’ve never done one before. But, essentially, you take a small piece of hair from the outside of one section and cross it over to the other, alternating sides until you reach the ends.
Once it’s braided, secure it with a clear elastic and gently pull the braid apart to give it a fuller look. You can leave the rest of your hair in loose curls or waves for that romantic, boho vibe.
2) Waterfall braid
A Pinterest favourite, waterfall braids are braids that go sideways across the back of your head, letting strands of hair “fall” through as you go—hence the name. It’s a beautiful, intricate-looking style that looks incredible in photos.
To create the look, start with a small section of hair near your temple and begin a French braid. But instead of pulling in all the strands like normal, you drop the bottom piece after each crossover and pick up a new piece underneath it. This creates the cascading effect. Continue braiding around the back of your head, and pin it behind the opposite ear.
3) Top knot twists
Twist the top half of your hair into a loose knot or bun at the crown of your head and let the rest flow free. Section off the top layer of your hair—roughly from your temples upwards—and backcomb slightly at the roots for volume. Twist that section into a loose bun or knot, secure it with pins or a clear elastic, and let the ends poke out a little for a softer, more undone vibe.
You need to be a little strategic with this style: too much top knot and the bottom of your hair will look thin, but a tiny top knot will look like a little mushroom on your head. Your best bet is to use a small amount of hair in your top knot and tease and fluff out the loose hair underneath to keep everything looking balanced.
Fun and funky wedding hairstyles
Fun and funky styles are great for unconventional or more relaxed weddings. Lean into the slightly undone style and don’t be afraid to mix textures, parts, or accessories. This is your chance to show a bit of personality with your hair!
4) Bubble braid half up
Bubble braids are such a cute way to show off length and volume while keeping things playful. They’re also way easier to create than they look. All you need are a ton of hair elastics.
Start by tying the top half of your hair into a ponytail around the crown of your head. Every inch or so, add an extra hair elastic down the length of the ponytail. Then, gently tug at the sections in between to “puff” them out and create that bubbly shape. Smooth flyaways down with hair oil and you’re good to go!
5) Half up space buns
Space buns were all the rage a few years ago. Nod to your intergalactic fave (with a grown-up twist) by rocking a half up version that feels playful, fun, and totally wedding-worthy.
Simply split the top half of your hair into two ponytails, tease each one slightly for volume, then twist them into mini buns on either side of your head. Secure with kirby grips or clear elastics, and gently pull at the buns to soften the shape and make them feel a little more undone. Curl the loose hair underneath, or leave it textured for an effortlessly cool finish.
6) Zigzag part
Who didn’t love a zigzag part in the 90s? Well, they’re back in style and perfect for adding a quirky twist to your wedding hairstyle. This works especially well with a sleek half up, half down or even a fun ponytail situation.
Use the end of a tail comb (or even a kirby grip) to carve a zigzag shape from your hairline to the crown of your head. Clip or tie the top half up in your chosen style, and leave the rest flowing loose. Add some shine spray or gel to make the part pop, and you’re good to go. Don’t be afraid to play with accessories like butterfly clips or mini gems if you’re really going all in on the nostalgia.
Classic and timeless wedding hairstyles
Looking for something classic? Look no further than these three styles.
7) Slicked back elegance
If you firmly identify with the clean girl aesthetic, a slicked-back style is a no-brainer. Simply section off the top half of your hair and use a fine-tooth comb and styling gel to smooth it straight back from your face. Pin it securely at the back of your head and let the rest of your hair fall in sleek, polished waves or straightened lengths.
8) Subtle bouffant
A subtle bouffant can add just the right amount of height and vintage flair without feeling over-the-top. Backcomb the crown section of your hair lightly, then smooth over the top layer and pin it back gently to create that lifted shape. The rest of your hair can be left in soft waves or a glossy blow-dry for a refined finish. Add a pearl clip or floral embellishments for a little something extra.
9) Bridal bow
Bows are another beautiful bridal trend that feels both current and yet classic. We recommend sticking to silk, satin, or velvet textures to keep things elegant—nothing too shiny or novelty-like. All you need to do is tie the top half of your hair into a ponytail, then fasten your bow above the pony to make it look like the bow is holding your hair. You can even wrap a ribbon around the tie to hide any elastic and let the ends trail down with your hair for a romantic finish.
Sweet accessories for half up, half down
If you’re an accessories kinda-gal, you’re in the right place. We love a half up, half down with a little something special. Read on for our top three faves.
10) Flower crown
A flower crown is a beautiful accessory to wear with a half up, half down. Whether you go fresh or faux, full bloom or dainty buds, it brings an effortlessly romantic vibe to your look. Secure the crown just behind your pinned section, letting the loose hair flow freely underneath. It’s especially perfect for outdoor or boho-style weddings.
11) Pearl or diamond clip
Securing your half up, half down with a pearl or diamond clip is another solid option if you want something simple but polished. Pop the clip where you’d normally use a bobble or kirby grips to hold the style in place—it’ll instantly elevate your look without needing any extra effort.
12) French comb tuck
Effortlessly chic, a French comb is a simple way to secure a half up, half down. Sure, it can be a little fiddly, but once you’ve got the hang of the tuck-and-slide motion, it’s a game changer. Slide the comb upwards into your twisted or gathered hair, letting the decorative part peek through at the back. Go for something vintage, tortoiseshell, or embellished depending on the vibe of your outfit.
FAQs
What face shape suits half up, half down?
Half up, half down wedding hairstyles look beautiful with all face shapes. But, they especially suit round, oval, and heart-shaped faces.
Is half up, half down popular in 2025?
Half up, half down is very popular in 2025. The best of both worlds, it allows you to showcase your long beautiful hair while still keeping it out of your face.
What is the best wedding hairstyle?
The best wedding hairstyle is any style that makes you feel beautiful and confident. Try out a half up, half down and see how it makes you feel.
Can I do a half up, half down on curly or natural hair?
Yes, and it looks stunning. The texture adds extra interest to the style.
The bottom line on half up, half down wedding hairstyles
If you want the best of both worlds—a down do that showcases your pretty hair, and an updo that looks polished—a half up, half down is the way to go. With so many options, from braids and buns to bows and bubbles, you can tailor it to suit your vibe, your dress, and even the wedding setting.
Whether you’re going full glam, boho-chic, or keeping it classic, there’s a half up, half down style out there that’ll have you feeling confident, comfy, and camera-ready all day (and night) long.
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Happy Planning!
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