41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (2024)

Prom season is quickly approaching, ladies! That means it’s time to start getting your look together for the big day. And we’re predicting one major style that will make you stand out from the crowd this prom season: the half up half down look! This classic style is so under-appreciated during prom season, and it can tie together just about any look. Seriously, it’s always a stunner on and off the dance floor, and is also versatile enough to rock to any after prom parties. Need we say more?

Check out these half up half down prom hairstyles that will really get you hooked on this hot trend:

1. Soft Curls

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (1)

These loose, soft curls are so elegantly chic and an amazing fit for your prom style. Make sure you give your curls some support and control all night long by usingDove Style+Care Flexible Hold Hairspray.

Dove

Dove Style+Care Compressed Flexible Hold Hairspray

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (2)

2. Sleek

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (3)

When it comes to our half up half down prom hairstyles, sleek and sexy is always the way to go. Give your hair a glossier finish by using TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum.

TRESemmé

TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (4)

3. Crown Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (5)

We’re firm believers that every girl should be given a crown at prom. So why not make one?

4. Classic Curls

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (6)

Some classic curls can give your half up half down prom hairstyles a timelessly sophisticated look.

5. Tussled

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (7)

Want to go against the grain even during prom season? This tussled half up half down look will do just the trick! Give your hair some added texture by usingBed Head by TIGI Stick when styling.

TIGI

Bed Head by TIGI Wax Stick

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (8)

6. Loose Side Bangs

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (9)

Here’s a style expert tip: leave the sections of hair you’re pinning up a little loose in the front to create some stylish faux side bangs!

7. Classic Half Up

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (10)

If you’re into the simpler half up half down prom hairstyles, then go for the classic look like the one above.

8. Glamorous Curls

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (11)

These full and voluminous curls just can’t be beaten on the dance floor. To give your hair an added boost of volume, useNexxus Exxpand+ Volumizing Whipwhen styling.

9. Messy Bun

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (12)

Want to create down prom hairstyles without dealing with sectioning your hair? Then just put your curled hair into a loose and messy bun, and the strands will separate and fall out themselves!

10. Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (13)

Upgrade your average half up half down prom hairstyles by adding a braid! Whether it’s a classic fishtail or a cool faux hawk braid like the one above, you’ll definitely amp up your style by adding some braids into your look.

11. Twisted Curl

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (14)

To create this jaw-dropping look, use the half down section of your hair to create one big, twisted curl. The result: a stunning mane of eye catching tresses! Seal the look withTRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray Extend Hold Level 4for curls that’ll last all night long.

TRESemmé

TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Extend Hold Level 4 Hair Spray

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (15)

12. Half-Up, Half-Down Knot

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (16)

Up next, the easiest half-up, half-down hairstyle around: the half-up knot.

Though it takes minutes to achieve (grab a section of hair in the back, split it into two and tie the parts into a knot), it still looks prom-perfect.

13. Half-Up, Half-Down Braid With Flowers

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (17)

When it comes to half-up, half-down prom hairstyles, braided ones, like this one, never fail to charm— especially when you pair them with beachy waves and weaveflowers into them. Credit:@amberfillerup

14. Short Half-Up Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (18)

In this double tap-worthy example, this prom queen has gone for a half-up braid hairstyle that features loose curls, instead of waves.

This lovely ‘do also shows you don’t need to have flowing locks to make an impact. Credit:@schoenzauberei

TRESemmé

TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (19)

Editor’s tip: It’s important to protect your tresses against heat damage, so make sure to use a heat defence product like the TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer Spray.

This spray gives hair up to 450°F heat protection (the highest temperature most styling tools go up to), so you don’t have to worry about stressing out your strands while you’re creating your style.

15. Curly Half-Up Style

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (20)

Curly half-up, half-down prom hairstyles are great for curl queens who want a pretty ‘do that want to show off their defined curls in style. Credit:@missmaggiepops

16. Half-Up Hair Bow

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (21)

If you choose to forgo hair accessories, this half-up, half-down hair bow hairstyle might spark your interest, as it will make your mane the accessory. Credit: @missysueblog

17. Half-Up, Half-Down Ponytail

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (22)

Looking for half-up, half-down prom hairstyles that’ll allow you to rock a pretty ponytail, too? Try out this fabulous‘do!

With lush curls and a few romantic tendrils at the front, you’ll be sure to make an unforgettable entrance. Credit:@filizhair

18. Glam Half-Up, Half-Down Waves

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (23)

There’s nothing wrong with taking acue from the red carpet and rocking classic Hollywoodwaves.

But if you really want to give thema prom-worthy twist, try fashioning them into this elegant, modern half-up style. Credit: @bfbhair

19. Half-Up, Half-Down Rose Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (24)

If you’ve selected yourself a sweet floral ensemble for your prom night, matching it with a flower-inspired ‘do might just earn you enough style points to win the crown.

Not only is this half-up rose braidone of the most gorgeous bun hairstylesaround, but it will also trick everyone into thinking you’re a styling whizz.

Nexxus

Nexxus Mousse Plus Volumizing Foam

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (25)

Editor’s tip:If your locks tend to fall on thefiner side, plump up yourbraided hairstyle with the Nexxus Mousse Plus Volumizing Foam.

Simply dust it over your braidafteryou’ve weaved it, then pancake it (gently pulling apart each section of the braid) and prepare to be amazed by its thicker appearance.

20. Celtic Rose Buns

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (26)

If one rose isn’t enough, you can easily amp your mane up with three Celtic rose buns. Three times the bun, three times the charm, eh?

21. Half-Up French Twist

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (27)

If you’re after something less flowery and fancier, this half-up French twist has got you covered.

And if you’re less confident in styling, mastering how to do a classic French twist with our easy tutorial will make it a breeze to get this look. Credit:@k8_smallthings

22. Half-Up, Half-Down Waves

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (28)

In need of a face-flattering look? Then, this is the prom hairstyle you’ve been waiting for.

With these soft, face-framing waves and a half-up plait, you’ll be channelling major angelic vibes.

23. Sleek Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (29)

On the opposite end of the trend spectrum is this sleek, wet-look ‘do. This look makes for a simple yet sophisticated upgrade to your everyday half-up style.

24. Romantic Half-Up, Half-Down Hair

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (30)

Oh, Tory Burch, you steal our hearts time after time with your romantic hairstyles. And we have to say, that this half-up style is destined for prom.

With its face-framing wisps and loose beachy waves, this lovely look is thecomplete recipe for success.

25. Half-Up Heart Loop

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (31)

Don’t have time to wash your long mane? Messy prom hairstyles, like this cute half-up heart loop, work best on second-day hair and requires minimal effort to recreate.Credit:@kassinka

26. Floral Hair Clips

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (32)

Think outside the box this prom season and turn the traditional half-up, half-down look into a work of art. How? By pairing your ‘do with a floral accent piece, of course.

27. Half-Up, Half-Down Fishtail

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (33)

When floral clips don’t quite cut it, you should consider trying out real flowers. Our favourite combo? This half-up, half-down fishtail braid with baby’s-breath and other colourful blooms.

28. Half-Up Headband Tuck

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (34)

Wondering how to stylishly keep your thick, curly locks under wraps? Don’t fret, because there are lots of half-up, half-down prom hairstyles that won’t compromise on a single ounce of style.

And this beautiful half-up headband tuck fromis absolutely ideal. Not only will it give off loads of vintage glamour, but it will also let you channel your inner Juliet.

TRESemmé

TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Mousse

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (35)

Editor’s tip:To really make your curlspop, try using the TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Mousse.Work a generous amount of the product throughout your damp lengths,blow dryand watch as your mermaid-esque curls come to life!

29. Woven Half-Up Twist

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (36)

We’re pretty much suckers for any hairstyle that can be done in less than 15 minutes and still look flawless— take this dreamy woven half-up twist hairstyle for example.

Honestly, with a bit of twist action and some bobby pins, you’ll be on the path to prom queen-worthy tresses. So, what are you waiting for?

30. Curly Half-Up Twist

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (37)

Can’t get enough of twisted half-up, half-down prom hairstyles? Well, here’s another one you won’t regret adding to your style radar: the curly half-up twist.

31. Half-Up Curly Bouffant with Ribbon

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (38)

When you combine abouffant hairstylewith luscious curls, you get the dreamiest combo ever: an elegant curly bouffant.

To give this classic look a modern edge, pair it with a black ribbonand just watch as the compliments come pouring in.

32. Half-Up 60s Ponytail

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (39)

This is what happens when you cross a half-up ponytail with 60s-worthy texture. But if you’re going to give this voluminous ‘do a try, don’t forget: the messier, the better. Credit:@ulyana.aster

33. Waterfall Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (40)

You’ve seen prettywaterfall braids take over Instagram and Pinterest, but are you willing to slay this style in real life for prom? If so, our step-by-step tutorialis all you need.

34. Half-Up Unicorn Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (41)

What we love most about this magical half-up, unicorn hairstyle is the fact that it gorgeously combines two trends in one.

Here, a centre parting braid (AKA a unicorn braid) and a half-up looped pony join together to create a fashionable, envy-inducing prom style. Credit:@hairbymadisonamenta

35. Sleek Half-Up Bun

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (42)

If polished half-up, half-down prom hairstyles are more your vibe, you’ll love this sleek half-up bun hairstyle.

To really make a style impact, keep the rest of locks straight, so that the focus is on your perfect bun. Credit: @franckprovostparis

36. Curly Half-Up Bun

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (43)

What better way to make an entrance than with a head full of bouncy curls styled into a half-up bun? Just don’t forget the swanky earrings, will you? Credit:@jewejewebee

37. Half-Up Crown Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (44)

Ready to crown yourself prom queen? Then, you’ll need to learn how master this impressive, long-lasting crown braid hairstyle. And guess what? We’ve got a tutorial on the look. Credit:@taylor_lamb_hair

Dove

Dove Style+Care Compressed Extra Hold Hairspray

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (45)

Editor’s tip: No matter what half-up, half-down prom style you decide to create, generously spritz your final ‘do with the Dove Style+Care Compressed Extra Hold Hairspray.Not only will this seal in your style but it will also leave your tresses glowing!

38. Pinned Half-Up Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (46)

This one is for the ladies who need another reason to go short for the big event. By pinning back half of your hair into a braid, you’ll be able to show off your new cut in the coolest way possible. Credit:@xandervintage

39. Accent Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (47)

Add a little edge to your prom dress with a pretty accent braid, complete with pearlhair accessories.Credit:@jenniferbehr

40. Tiara Hairstyle

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (48)

If there’s a time and place to wear a tiara hair accessory, it’s prom. The best way to it? By tucking it into a half-up bouffant, of course. Credit:@leletny

41. Headband Braid

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (49)

When it comes to quick half-up, half-down prom hairstyles, one of our faves is this boho-approved headband braid. Before you get major mane envy, here’s how to do a braided undo.

Need more inspiration? Check out these Half-Up Bun Styles to Love!

41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles (2024)

FAQs

What hairstyle is good for prom? ›

For a simple prom hairstyle that will complement more dramatic makeup, opt for a bubble ponytail. It's a look you can actually easily do at home. Start by pulling your mane into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.

How to do a perfect half up half down hairstyle? ›

Pull the top half of your hair into a high half ponytail and secure it with a hair elastic. Then, use your fingers to separate your hair and create a hole above the elastic. Flip your ponytail up and over, pulling the ponytail through the hole you made. To complete your look, pull your ponytail taut.

How should I have my hair for prom? ›

12 Prom Hairstyles to See Out High School in Style!
  1. Loose fishtail braids with long curly locks.
  2. A soft chignon bun with natural, curly lengths.
  3. Half-up, half-down twisted pony duo.
  4. A duo of relaxed chignon buns with soft waves.
  5. Hollywood waves with sparkly embellishments.
  6. Classic crown braids.
  7. The fishtail braid updo.

Where do you section your hair for half up half down? ›

Section off the top part of your hair, starting at the top of your ears. Then, split the top section in half down the middle. French braid each side, stopping when you reach the back of your head so the rest of the hair hangs loose. Secure each braid individually with a clear elastic at the back of your head.

What is the easiest hair for prom? ›

Half up, half down

One of the most easy to do hairstyles for a party or formal event, this look works with short bobs or long flowing locks and keeps it from getting into your face. Add a volumising mousse to give your hair some body and movement before roughly blow-drying.

How can I look prettiest at prom? ›

10 Beauty Tips for Prom
  1. Get glowing skin. Tame your acne with eye drops to reduce redness. ...
  2. Whiten your smile. ...
  3. Clean up your brows. ...
  4. Hydrate your hair. ...
  5. Use a good deodorant or antiperspirant product. ...
  6. Add a pop of color to the eyes. ...
  7. Change up your hair. ...
  8. Treat yourself like a celebrity with a lip color change.
Apr 17, 2014

Should hair be up or down for prom? ›

"If it's off the shoulder, a sweetheart cut or strapless, wearing your hair down would look the best," said Lathan. "For those that have a lot going on along the neckline or have a lot of jewelry, try an updo.

How do you stand out at prom? ›

Here are some tips for finding the perfect unique prom dress:
  1. Look for interesting fabrics. One way to make your prom dress stand out is to choose a dress made from an unusual fabric. ...
  2. Go for an unusual style (i.e. unique characteristics) ...
  3. Consider asymmetrical necklines. ...
  4. Wear an iridescent prom dress.

Can you wear your hair straight to prom? ›

You can never go wrong with a straight hairstyle. It's a low-maintenance hairstyle that looks sleek and sophisticated. This hairstyle is sure to hold up through all the dancing you'll be doing on prom night! Incorporating a braid into any natural hairstyle is the perfect way to add an interesting element.

What is the hairstyle called half up half down? ›

This particular hairstyle is more or less what the name suggests: tie up the top half of your hair into a topknot or ponytail, while the lower half can cascade down your back or be swept to the side. This is an underrated hairstyle and bound to be a favorite for anyone who wants a great look in a hurry!

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Aracelis Kilback

Last Updated:

Views: 6147

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Aracelis Kilback

Birthday: 1994-11-22

Address: Apt. 895 30151 Green Plain, Lake Mariela, RI 98141

Phone: +5992291857476

Job: Legal Officer

Hobby: LARPing, role-playing games, Slacklining, Reading, Inline skating, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, Dance

Introduction: My name is Aracelis Kilback, I am a nice, gentle, agreeable, joyous, attractive, combative, gifted person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.