41 Best Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles
Only the chicest half up half down prom hairstyles ahead.
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
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 using Dove Style+Care Flexible Hold Hairspray.
2. Sleek
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
3. Crown Braid
We’re firm believers that every girl should be given a crown at prom. So why not make one?
4. Classic Curls
Some classic curls can give your half up half down prom hairstyles a timelessly sophisticated look.
5. Tussled
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 using Bed Head by TIGI Stick when styling.
6. Loose Side Bangs
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
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
These full and voluminous curls just can’t be beaten on the dance floor. To give your hair an added boost of volume, use Nexxus Exxpand+ Volumizing Whip when styling.
9. Messy Bun
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
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
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 with TRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray Extend Hold Level 4 for curls that’ll last all night long.
12. Half-Up, Half-Down Knot
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
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 weave flowers into them. Credit: @amberfillerup
14. Short Half-Up Braid
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
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
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
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
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
There’s nothing wrong with taking a cue from the red carpet and rocking classic Hollywood waves.
But if you really want to give them a prom-worthy twist, try fashioning them into this elegant, modern half-up style. Credit: @bfbhair
19. Half-Up, Half-Down Rose Braid
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 braid one of the most gorgeous bun hairstyles around, but it will also trick everyone into thinking you’re a styling whizz.
Editor’s tip: If your locks tend to fall on the finer side, plump up your braided hairstyle with the Nexxus Mousse Plus Volumizing Foam.
Simply dust it over your braid after you’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
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
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
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
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
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 the complete recipe for success.
25. Half-Up Heart Loop
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
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
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
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 from is absolutely ideal. Not only will it give off loads of vintage glamour, but it will also let you channel your inner Juliet.
Editor’s tip: To really make your curls pop, try using the TRESemmé TRES Two Extra Firm Control Mousse. Work a generous amount of the product throughout your damp lengths, blow dry and watch as your mermaid-esque curls come to life!
29. Woven Half-Up Twist
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
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
When you combine a bouffant hairstyle with 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 ribbon and just watch as the compliments come pouring in.
32. Half-Up 60s Ponytail
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
You’ve seen pretty waterfall 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 tutorial is all you need.
34. Half-Up Unicorn Braid
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
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
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
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
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
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
Add a little edge to your prom dress with a pretty accent braid, complete with pearl hair accessories.Credit: @jenniferbehr
40. Tiara Hairstyle
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
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!
