Half Up Half Down Curly Hairstyle With Braids

 Curly hairstyles can elevate your game, and we have the perfect half-up, half-down with micro braids to get you going. Whether you're heading to a festival or want to add a bit of flair to your usual look, this on-trend hairstyle will turn heads. Say goodbye to your standard look and hello to the curly half up half down that will change your curly hair game. 

This style works well on all curl types and is simple to recreate. One of the best things about the prep for this look is that it can, and is best created on day 2 or 3 curls, which drastically cuts down the styling time. Follow along as we break down the steps to achieve this beautiful braided masterpiece.

Meet the Expert

Anastasia Stylianou is a freelance celebrity hair stylist and textured specialist. 

Follow along as we break down the steps to achieve this beautiful braided masterpiece. 

Step 1: Create the Middle Parting

Using a pintail comb, create a middle parting in your hair. This will ensure symmetry and balance for the half-up, half-down hairstyle. You can make this super precise or give the comb a slight wiggle as you move it through the hair to create a more natural look. 

Then, divide your hair into sections by creating a parting from the top of the head to behind the ears. 

Step 2: Section the Hair

Using a gel such as In Shower Style Fixer, smooth and style the edges with a soft bristle brush around the front hairline to frame your face. Then, secure the sections of hair at the back hairline with a soft bobble or hair tie. 

Once secure, follow with a hairspray like our Flawless Finish Flexible Hold Hairspray to tame flyaways and provide lasting hold. 

Step 3: Conceal the Tie

Drape the back section of your hair over the bobble to hide the tie at the base of the hairline. This ensures a seamless transition between the tied and untied sections, with your waves flowing down the back of your head for the "half down" portion of the look.

Step 4: Create Micro Braids

Behind the parting, create two small triangular sections of hair to form micro braids. Depending on your hair's texture and preference, you can make these braids loose or tight. Secure each braid at the end with hairspray or gel to ensure it stays in place. Using a product is much kinder to the hair than using accessories like a rubber band, which can cause damage by creating breakage.

Step 5: Form the Half-Up Ponytail

Gather the remaining hair at the back of your head and divide it into two sections. Create a ponytail with the top half of the divided section to form the "half-up" part of the hairstyle. Secure it with a hair tie.

Step 6: Add Shine with Oil

Apply a small amount of oil, like our Bonding Oil, to your hair for a smooth, shiny, and nourished finish on your curls. This step adds a lustrous sheen to your locks, enhancing the overall appearance of the hairstyle.

Step 7: Secure with Hairspray

To ensure your half-up, half-down hairstyle stays in place all day, finish with a generous spritz of Flawless Finish hairspray. This final step helps lock everything in position, providing a long-lasting hold, maintaining the integrity of the style.

Styling With Curlsmith

This half-up, half-down curly hairstyle is ideal for those with mid-to-long hair. It is perfect for summer or a festival. The sleek front keeps your hair out of your face while allowing your locks to flow beautifully in the back. For more hairstyle inspiration, explore our style hub.