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9 Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyles for Any Occasion

You know what’s particularly great about a half-up, half-down hairstyle? Unlike full updos, they work on most lengths. Then, there’s the fact that they dress up any look while still lending an air of effortlessness. Here, nine examples to inspire your next event.

The 32 Best Haircuts for Shoulder-Length Hair


emma stone half up half down hairstyles
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Loosely-pinned Style

Calling all brides and wedding guests: Nothing says romantic like a head full of soft, cascading waves that are gently pulled back by a few pearl accents.

emilia clarke half up half down hairstyles
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Half-up Lob

In the process of growing out bangs? Part your hair in the center before raking the sides back and securing everything with an elastic to keep it out of your face (while adding some polish).

emma watson half up half down hairstyles
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Retro Style

Speaking of polish, if you’re looking for a different way to style your bob, try a curled-and-pinned look like Emma here.

half up half down hairstyles with pins
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Embellished Twist

From the front, this might just look like your average half-up 'do. From the back, it’s a complete party.

A Voluminous Tie-back

Dress up rumpled waves (aka bedhead) by adding some height at the top and securing sections of your hair back with velvet bows.

constance wu half up half down hairstyles
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One-sided Style

While a ball gown and chignon are a classic pairing, it can read a bit stuffy for some. To lighten up the look, let your hair down and clip it to one side using a sleek accessory.

kerry washington half up half down hairstyles
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Half-up Curls

For an elegant, yet edgy style, smooth down the top and sides of your hair and let the rest of your gorgeous curls rest on your shoulders.

lucy boynton half up half down hairstyles
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Braided Crown

A plaited crown is our go-to party trick for when we need to disguise greasy roots. In fact, the more (ahem) texture, the better the braid.

lana condor half up half down hairstyles
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Bouffant-top

Follow Lana Condor’s lead by teasing some volume at the crown of your head before flipping out the ends to add some sass.



Jenny Jin Headshot Vertical 2023

Beauty Director

Jenny Jin is PureWow’s Beauty Director and is currently based in Los Angeles. Since beginning her journalism career at Real Simple magazine, she has become a human encyclopedia of...