Can't decide between a fancy updo or a romantic down 'do? A half-up hairstyle offers the best of both worlds: you get the look of lush curls with the ease and security that it will stay in place for the entire day.
Browse these beautiful photo-ready options!
Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyles
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Rapunzel-length locks are all the more enchanting with side-swept detailing and a boho-chic accessory.
Photo Credit: Sarah Michele Photography
Photo Credit: Sarah Michele Photography
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Bump up the volume at the crown for a pretty look befitting a Southern belle.
Photo Credit: Monique Hessler Photography
Photo Credit: Monique Hessler Photography
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Tightly-wrapped strands anchor the teased section of this bride's hairstyle, adding a modern twist on an otherwise classic look.
Photo Credit: Fairy Tale Photography
Photo Credit: Fairy Tale Photography
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If you have a layered cut, leave a few face-framing tendrils out and concentrate the volume on both sides for a beautifully versatile look.
Photo Credit: Arte De Vie
Photo Credit: Arte De Vie
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Twisted strands on both sides of the face and pinned curls in the back make this style just as lovely no matter what angle you're viewing it from.
Photo Credit: The Larken Photo & Video Co.
Photo Credit: The Larken Photo & Video Co.
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For a more relaxed take, try this side-parted variation with gorgeous, fluffed-up texture in the back.
Photo Credit: Monique Hessler Photography
Photo Credit: Monique Hessler Photography
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For a delicate alternative to a flower crown, consider interweaving teeny-tiny floral clips across the clipped-up part of your hair.
Photo Credit: Irving Photography
Photo Credit: Irving Photography
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Tuck blossoms around a rolled top half, on the sides, and at the very bottom of your strands — the effect is magical!
Photo Credit: Jennifer Weems Photography
Photo Credit: Jennifer Weems Photography
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A classic hairstyle balances out a dramatic ball gown and ruby-red pout.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography
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Replicate this stunning style by gathering your hair right above the tops of your ears and curling big, bouncy ringlets.
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography / Beauty: Kimberly Cutler Professional Make-Up
Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography / Beauty: Kimberly Cutler Professional Make-Up
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Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography / Beauty: Kimberly Cutler Professional Make-Up
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Photo Credit: Jenna Leigh Wedding Photography / Beauty: Kimberly Cutler Professional Make-Up
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A wavy hairstyle with lots of soft, natural texture perfectly complements a rustic outdoor setting.
Photo Credit: Fairy Tale Photography
Photo Credit: Fairy Tale Photography
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Subtle ombré highlights add dimension to gathered-back spirals.
Photo Credit: Danielle Coons Photography
Photo Credit: Danielle Coons Photography
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An ultra-sleek, side-parted hairstyle that swoops over the ears is incredibly chic.
Photo Credit: Alison Kundratic Photography
Photo Credit: Alison Kundratic Photography
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One of the most creative half-up hairstyles to date — check out that dazzling Art Deco crystal accessory!
Photo Credit: Hair and Makeup by Steph / Hair: Hair and Makeup by Steph
Photo Credit: Hair and Makeup by Steph / Hair: Hair and Makeup by Steph
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A braided twist, bouffant and oversized floral clip; this hairstyle has it all!
Photo Credit: Trish Barker Photography / Hair: Salon 253
Photo Credit: Trish Barker Photography / Hair: Salon 253
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No princess-worthy look is complete without a tiara and rolled-up ringlets.
Photo Credit: Nargiss Cross Photography
Photo Credit: Nargiss Cross Photography
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We can't wait to replicate this breathtaking, boho-inspired style; it works especially well for thick hair.
Photo Credit: Nhiya Kaye Photography / Beauty: Syna Harris's Home Salon
Photo Credit: Nhiya Kaye Photography / Beauty: Syna Harris's Home Salon
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Picturesque ringlets and side-swept bangs make this hairstyle a standout.
Photo Credit: Ashfall Mixed Media
Photo Credit: Ashfall Mixed Media
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We're crushing on these barely-there curls, and the slightly off-kilter part keeps it from veering into "trying too hard" territory.
Photo Credit: Emily Blake Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
Photo Credit: Emily Blake Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
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For a half-up style with pizzazz, divide and gather your hair into multiple sections.
Photo Credit: Michael Anthony Photography / Hair: Perfect Day, Perfect Hair / Makeup: All Dolled Up Beauty Lounge
Photo Credit: Michael Anthony Photography / Hair: Perfect Day, Perfect Hair / Makeup: All Dolled Up Beauty Lounge
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Photo Credit: Michael Anthony Photography / Hair: Perfect Day, Perfect Hair / Makeup: All Dolled Up Beauty Lounge
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A braided cross-section keeps beautiful, tightly-wound curls in place.
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
Photo Credit: Rachel Pearlman Photography
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Center-parted, shoulder-length hair feels fresh and youthful paired with a classic lace gown.
Photo Credit: Lightframe Photo
Photo Credit: Lightframe Photo
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We love how intricate this bride's rolled-up style is.
Photo Credit: Jeramie Lu Photography
Photo Credit: Jeramie Lu Photography
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Curl the entire top section of hair as well for a dynamic, textural look that's oh-so-pretty.
Photo Credit: Michael Kaal Photography
Photo Credit: Michael Kaal Photography
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A headband adds polish to an otherwise simple half-up hairstyle.
Photo Credit: Studio Eleven Photography / Beauty: Madame Make-Up and Hair
Photo Credit: Studio Eleven Photography / Beauty: Madame Make-Up and Hair
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Placing a clip beneath the section of hair that's pinned up is unexpected but creates such a cool, modern effect.
Photo Credit: Studio Castillero Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
Photo Credit: Studio Castillero Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
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If you wear your hair down on an everyday basis but want a little extra oomph for your wedding day, then this is the perfect hairstyle for you.
Photo Credit: Chloe Moore Photography / Makeup by Kim and Hair by Lindsey from Nicol Artistry Makeup
Photo Credit: Chloe Moore Photography / Makeup by Kim and Hair by Lindsey from Nicol Artistry Makeup
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Photo Credit: Chloe Moore Photography / Makeup by Kim and Hair by Lindsey from Nicol Artistry Makeup
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Allover curls take on a vintage vibe with a feather and pearl-encrusted clip.
Photo Credit: Annie Randall Photography / Hair: Hair and Makeup by Steph
Photo Credit: Annie Randall Photography / Hair: Hair and Makeup by Steph
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Inspired by all things retro? We give this rolled-up style a rave review.
Photo Credit: Willhouse Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
Photo Credit: Willhouse Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
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A blowout with curled ends looks so regal with a section of hair pinned up.
Photo Credit: Jose Villa / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
Photo Credit: Jose Villa / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
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Braided sides and mussed-up locks are a match in boho heaven.
Photo Credit: Ashley Keleman Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
Photo Credit: Ashley Keleman Photography / Hair: 10.11. Makeup
Also on Bridal Guide:
75 Wedding Hairstyles for Every Length
100 Ideas for Fall Weddings
These Stunning Destination Weddings Will Make You Want to Pack Your Bags ASAP
16 Fun Ideas for Your Wedding Card Box
10 Wedding Favors You'd Never Guess Cost Under $1
By Stefania Sainato for Bridal Guide
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