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

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.

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.

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 usingBed 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, useNexxus Exxpand+ Volumizing Whipwhen 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 withTRESemmé Compressed Micro Mist Hairspray Extend Hold Level 4for 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 weaveflowers 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 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

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.

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

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 thecomplete 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 fromis 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 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

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 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

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 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

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 pearlhair 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!