Half Up Half Down Braids: 30 Options For 30 Occasions!

While edgy layered haircuts are more popular in this day and age, a look that women with natural hair can always count on at all times is a hairdo involving half-up, half-down braids, often perceived as protective hairstyles.

The positives that this braided hairstyle offers are plenty. However, in most cases, wearing half-up, half-down braids can help with securing the growth of healthier hair by protecting the shaft from unnecessary friction, styling tools infused with heat, and regular air pollution. Half-up, half-down braids can also work wonders if your schedule is as hectic as they come.

At the moment, the popularity of half-up, half-down braids seems endless. The convenience of the braided look is one of the key features that enable it to garner tons of favouritism, while its longevity of it further adds to its already-positive reception.

To learn about the ways in which half-up, half-down braids can be worn and slayed on any and every hair type of natural hair, be sure to skim through the list we’ve provided below!

Half-up Half-down Braids That Are Enjoyable, Relaxing, And Stress-free To Wear

Braids, especially half-up, half-down braids, comprise a little bit of everything. They make one’s hair more manageable to wear, look quite appealing on most occasions, and can be worn for a considerable period of time as long as the braids are taken out and redone on a bi-monthly basis. In addition, half-up, half-down braids are quite compatible with any and every outfit.

Currently, there are tons of variants under half-up, half-down braids that can be replicated quite easily, and enhance one’s physical appearance at the same time. For more information on this aspect, however, be sure to check out the following entries we’ve covered!

6-stitch Half-up Half-down Braids

Kicking off this list are these 6-stitch braids, also known as 6 feed-in braids, which can be replicated by straight hair as well. The pattern is often implemented around the frontal region until the crown of the scalp, but it can even be expanded if one makes more time for the installation process.

6-stitch braids are quite subtle in contrast to most of the entries throughout this list, making it a great option for beginners. Despite being long lasting, these braids can also be removed within minutes.

Relaxed Fishtail Braids

Another look that can be created within minutes is this entry featuring soft and low-hanging fishtail braids, which pair best with straight layers. The braids not only offer a lenient hold, but can also be done at home as long as you tie the strands into a bun before forming the pieces.

This half-up, half-down bun is pretty easy to replicate, making it a good option for those seeking an immediate transformation. Although subjective, many often pair the structure with soft colours for adding to the presentability of this look.

Edgy Plaited Braids

If your hair is resilient against tugging and pulling, you should definitely reward yourself with these edgy plaited braids, featuring multiple components around the temple.

Since the hairdo is quite complex, getting professional help during the installation process is advised. The look does have positives though, as it pairs well with bold outfits and formal clothing as well.

For best results, regularly conditioning the strands is advised. If the hold feels too uncomfortable, don’t hesitate to remove them immediately.

Criss Cross Dutch Braids

Half-up half-down braids can always work wonders if you fancy healthy-looking units of braids. And with some soft colours, the braids can even be presented as delicately as these criss-cross Dutch braids.

The structure of these braids is quite simple from afar, but it can be complex to create at home. Since the layers are formed with Dutch braids in a criss cross pattern with curls around the ends, this aesthetically pleasing look may require assistance from professionals to stand out correctly.

Zig Zag Cornrow-stitch braids

Cornrow-stitch braids are another favourable entry on this list, offering tons of flair, hold, and volume to the user.

The layers are often formed down the middle with a straight-cut structure, but they can also be formed diagonally, spirally, and using zig-zag patterns for maximum success.

Cornrow-stitch braids are usually moisturized with tons of gel, being a good option for hair that is prone to breakage. With enough length, cosmic buns or a ponytail can even be showcased with these cornrow-stitched braids.

Plain Heart Shaped Braids

A simple yet elegant look that you can form with braids is this entry, comprising subtle heart-shaped braids around the rear of the scalp. The braids are typically formed all over the crown of the head prior to creating the heart-shaped pattern, which requires a series of hair ties for a solid hold.

This look is a quick and easy way to showcase the length of the strands, and is a great option for newbies. With the help of colours like amber and hazel, the visuals feel more soothing to look at.

Jumbo Half-up Half-down Knotless Braids

Experimenting with flashy shapes and patterns can be ideal if your strands are loose and bouncy. However, if you have extremely dense hair that is often hard to manage and style on a daily basis, dividing them to form these jumbo pieces of knotless braids can be the perfect decision to make.

These jumbo braids take tons of time to form, but are rewarding nonetheless for the hold they contain. The strands can be sectioned using the feed-in method for size, but can also be paired with a two-stitch system to carry more elements.

Subtle Bridal Braids

Prepping for a wedding can be tough when you’re one of the bridesmaids, as wearing a hairdo that suits the occasion is just as crucial as wearing the right dress. And if you’re open to taking suggestions, consider giving these bridal braids a chance.

The braids are only created around the hairline of the scalp, with healthy pieces of units that pair well with the sophisticated aura of wedding dresses. The strands don’t always stay in place, so be sure to use hairspray when forming this look.

Half-up Half-down Butterfly Braids With Rings

For a look that features a complex formation and carries the healthiest pieces of braids, these butterfly braids are quite favorable.

The structure of the look is quite time-consuming to form and the weight of this look is quite tough for the scalp to handle. However, if you still go forward with this look, know that the braids will last you an eternity.

On top of pairing well with any outfit and fitting in under any circumstance, these butterfly braids are quite compatible with accessories. While beads are the go-to pieces of equipment, you may also add rings for an equally engaging outcome.

Multi-pattern Half-up Half-down Braids

If you’re not too bothered about modifying the front side of your hair, try looking into this multi-patterned braided look to amp up the visuals of the back end of your mane.

This braided hairstyle is quite easy to form at home. However, since the unit is quite compact, taking help from a friend is advised.

Once the braided component has been finished, you can either leave it be, or spice things up a little by adding complimentary pieces around the units.

Half-up Half-down Thin Braids With Beads

Half-up, half-down braids can also be used to cover big foreheads, preferably with the help of this braided option right here. These braids are often quite narrow in size, which can be great to avoid frizziness and split ends.

These braids feature beads, which can be a good way to prevent the layers from falling apart. The units can also be paired with rings and wires to make the final outcome more promising.

Laid Back Braids In A Ponytail

A sublime yet simple way to rock half-up half-down braids is this look right here, which seals the braids into a ponytail.

Prior to forming the look, it is advised to tie the hair into a hair tie. Once the bun is formed, divide the unit into two separate sections and intersect the straight lines to curate the healthy-looking braided pieces.

Sharp Half-up Half-down Snake Braids

If you have an obsession with swirly patterns on braids, these snake braids can very well be your cup of tea.

The structure features wobbly patterns around the frontal region of the scalp, followed by thin units of knotless braids at the back. The strands around the rear are usually left alone, but they can also be sealed with a curling iron for an additional component.

Half-up Half-down Braids With Babylights

Swirling the strands around the sides can also be an effective way to unlock a relaxed form of half-up, half-down braids.

If the structure can’t be shaped manually, you can use rollers to manipulate the structure and allow the braids to form. To make the strands more apparent, using babylights or a bright streak of highlights should be sufficient.

Angular Half-up Half-down Braids

Enhancing the structure of your face is also quite achievable with half-up, half-down braids, especially if the units are formed around one side.

Also known as angular braids, these braids are great for highlighting the better part of one’s face. In addition to containing an organized structure, angular braids pair well with shades of colour, and are specialists in bringing out distinct features like a lean jawline.

Frizzy Half-up Half-down French Braid

A French braid can also be a compelling option to satisfy your need to pull off a half-up, half-down braided option, comprising soft layers with tons of volume.

The look caters to easygoing occasions such as family gatherings, and can be a good option for intermediates in the styling world due to its stress-free procedure. This braided look is often formed around the sides of the hairline, but it can also be converted into a crown braid.

Wired Feed-in Braids With Custom Base

Wearing a half-up half-down braided look can really take away all the weight that average braided looks often require an individual to carry. However, if you want your option to reprise the hefty nature of the traditional braided options, these wired feed-in braids should be added to your list.

The look features knotless braids, box braids, and two stitch braids, most of which are formed using the feed-in method. And although it has a long shelf-life, the braids used in this look can take a toll on one’s scalp.

Heart Shape Braids With Cosmic Buns

If you’re willing to put in the work and make tons of time for your half-up, half-down braids, this variant featuring heart-shaped braids alongside highlighted cosmic buns can be the perfect look to add to your arsenal.

This look pairs best with bold individuals, as it contains multiple complex elements. When push comes to shove, the visuals typically favor those with a knack for streetwear fashion.
The tightness of this variant is quite concerning, which can easily lead to hair shedding if not maintained properly.

Two Tone French Braid

To transform your hair in the blink of an eye, a great braided look involving half-up, half-down features is a two-tone French braid, typically added using a two-stitch or criss-cross method.

This braided look is all about casual gatherings, so don’t forget to take it with you when heading out for a picnic. With a little bit of gel and accessories, this two-tone French braid can also be a blast at parties.

Tribal Crown Braid With Sharp Edges

If you’d like the braids to have ties with your culture and heritage, wearing tribal crown braids should be the main aim. The look contains a mix of crown braids, and a middle part, and even has curly tresses near the ends that are quite exciting to look at.

While the pattern alone carries the show, these braids also look quite majestic when paired with highlights or subtle hair dyes.

Glossy Bantu Knots With Knotless Braids

Working around a tight budget can be difficult if you want your half-up, half-down braids to be infused with the extensions of jumbo knotless pieces. But, if you’re looking for a financially feasible option that offers the same impression as knotless braids, this hybrid featuring bantu knots and knotless braids may be the ideal solution.

Bantu knots look quite tight from afar. However, in reality, they’re known for defending natural hair from dust and pollution, and for being longlasting.

Loose Crown Braid

A low-maintenance option among this list is a loose crown braid, which only upgrades and enhances the pieces around the hairline. The units contain tons of volume, have tons of breathing space, and contain a firm hold when created, making it a great look for beginners.

While the backside is often left unused to bring more attention to the crown braid, you may even tie it into a low-bun or high-ponytail to make the visuals more exciting.

Tight Boho Braids With High Updo

Boho braids can also be a compelling option to experiment with, especially if you admire thin yet delicate patterns. The structure is often divided into two sections down the middle before transforming into thin units of braids with a tight hold.

At the backside of these boho braids is a high-updo, which is a win-win situation for those seeking a volume-oriented option. The bun stays put at all times, but might need to be taken out every now and then to give the scalp some room to breathe.

Dishevelled Half-up Half-down Braids With Highlights

Half-up half-down braids are perfect for those that procrastinate, as it stays in place for weeks without needing any attention.

On another note, if you happen to count yourself as a lazy person, these dishevelled pieces of half-up, half-down braids can be the easiest option to look into.

The visuals of this braided look can be underwhelming if you’re looking for a dramatic transformation, but can fit like a glove with your interests if you have minimalist qualities. The subtle twin-tails don’t just add to the presentability of this look, but also relieve the scalp from some tension.

Long Tribal Braids With Cosmic Bun

If your hair is long enough, you can even go for these tribal braids to reward yourself accordingly, especially if you’re into bold options.

These braids typically feature a complex stitching pattern near the frontal region, which often requires clips to stay in place during the procedure.

Once the braids are created using a feed-in method, the ends are taken and split in two ways to form healthy units of cosmic buns, which can be brightened up with highlights.

Half-up, Half-down Knotless Braids With Streaks

Separating your hair into two healthy units can also be a great idea when wearing a half-up half-down braided look, since it can bring these knotless braids into the equation.

In addition to solid sectioning, the strands might require tons of gel to secure the hold of this look. To make the visuals more appealing, you can either replicate the shade of vibrant green used in the picture, or side with a hair dye that pairs well with your personality and taste in fashion.

Quadruple Braids With Accessories

If you’re all about validation and braids with patterns, an excellent variant of half-up, half-down braids that will align with your interests are these quadruple braids, containing accessories for more appeal.

Since this hairdo involves tons of hair dyes, highlights and accessories, it would be best if you save this look for special occasions. While the visuals can seem out of place at formal events, this quadruple braided look can be an eye candy at social gatherings and on weekend getaways with friends!

Braided Mohawk

Although peculiar, a braided mohawk can also be worn without an ounce of discomfort if you have a knack for half-up, half-down braids, and an obsession with bold looks.

As opposed to most variants on this list, this braided mohawk is quite complex to create, requiring clips for the frontal region to secure the hold of the mohawk. The sides, despite causing very little stress on the scalp, can also take a while to implement since it involves a series of thin-shaped braids.

Multi-layered Half-up, Half-down Braids

If you’re known for being the life of the party in your friend group and are always up for making fashion statements, a bold variant that can pair well with the previous remarks is this braided look with a multi-layered pattern.

The most noticeable part about this half-up, half-down braided look is easily the complex pieces of braids around the frontal region which have been incorporated using the criss-cross method. However, the bun with an array of hair dyes is also a crucial component that further adds to the likability of this braided look.

Half-up, Half-down Braids For Kids

A great look that you and your daughter can twin with is this subtle form of half-up, half-down braids, featuring two stitch braids on top. The look is quite lenient on the scalp, easy to create, and can be worn for a long time.

While these braids for kids features fringes or bangs around the forehead, know that it can be rearranged to a crown braid for more flair, a subtle comb over for volume, and an angular side-part for a slimming effect.

Half-up, Half-down Braids: Factors To Consider Before Finding The Right Look

Half-up half-down braids are a combination of regular hairdos mixed with flashy structures for natural hair. And while most of them only cater to strands that pass off as 3c and 4c hair, certain entries of this braided look can also accommodate thin pieces of afro-textured hair.

However, before making your pick, it is important that you consider certain factors into account, especially if you want your experience of wearing half-up, half-down braids to be enjoyable without a hassle. From analysing hair density to assessing your daily routine, here are the factors to consider before finding the right kind of half-up, half-down braids!

Hair density

Analysing the density of your hair is the first thing you should do, as it will shape your entire experience with half-up, half-down braids.

If you feel that the strands are relatively resilient and can withstand a little bit of wear and tear, then you’re in luck, as your natural hair can replicate any of the suggested options without a single issue.

On the contrary, if your hair is thin, loose, and long, a half-up, half-down braided variant infused with scalp-friendly options like two-stitch braids and French braids should be ideal for your strands to carry.

Styling Process

If your scalp is vulnerable to friction, finding an option with a lenient procedure should be mandatory, especially to avoid traction alopecia.

Analysing the styling process can also be important if you want more information on how the visuals will look, and discover the ways in which you can maintain and strengthen the units of braids with each day.

Daily Routine

Just like most braided options, half-up, half-down braids are quite easy to wear. However, the look is quite demanding in the long run, as daily washing, conditioning, and touch-ups are required to maintain the consistency of the look. Therefore, if you already have a schedule that is action-packed to the point where you can’t even make time for yourself, consider wearing knotless braids or Dutch braids.

Maintenance

Half-up, half-down braids often carry a very quick styling routine, being music to the ears of those with busy routines. Since most options are held together with gel, mousse and hydrating creams, one can wear their half-up, half-down braided look for days without looking awkward or coping with a bad hair day.

However, half-up half-down braids require tons of hydration to avoid breakage, and need touch-ups regularly to stay sound, both of which require the wearer to make tons of time and spend a lot of money.

Frequently Asked Question

Now that you’re aware of the looks that make half-up half down braids so exciting and alluring in modern times, and have enough knowledge to learn about the factors you need to analyse before committing to a variant of half-up, half-down braided hairstyle, here are some common questions regarding today’s topic on the web that can make the decision-making process easier!

Q: Are half-up half-down braids long-lasting?

Ans: On average, half-up, half-down braids last over a month when maintained properly. However, with regular washing and restyling, the duration of these braids can be extended by 2 additional weeks!

Q: Do half-up half-down braids cause hair loss?

Ans: One of the only issues that wearing half-up half-down braids brings to the table is tons of friction, which can cause a lot of stress on the scalp through tugging and pulling. The friction can be controlled if you undo the look every now and then and hydrate the cuticles regularly, but it may also leave behind signs of hair loss and lead to traction alopecia, a severe form of hair loss.

Q: Can beginners wear half-up, half-down braids?

Ans: Half-up, half-down braids can be complex if you’re seeking to replicate a variant with boho braids, tribal braids, and any option with a complex creative process. However, if you’re seeking options that are easy to carry for newbies and beginners, try looking into updo buns, crown braids, French braids, and two-stitch braids!

Final Takeaway

Half-up, half-down braids are quite new in the fashion scene right now, but offer tons of benefits if one decides to give them a chance. Each look is quite unique in its own way, comprising patterns and visuals that can leave anyone in awe.

While half-up, half-down braids are typically best for visually-oriented minds and enthusiasts that are all about promising aesthetics, the braided look can also be an incentive for those with damaged hair, as each pattern of half-up, half-down braids go above and beyond to protect the shaft indefinitely. The design also stays put for hours and hours even under harsh conditions, which can be an incentive for those hoping to save time.

Half-up half-down braids might be difficult to understand at first and challenging to create at home, which is why we would recommend you visit a specialist. To maintain your preferred look without facing any repercussions, visiting a hairdresser on a bi-monthly basis is necessary.