Everybody’s Wearing Half-Up, Half-Down Hair – Here’s Why

“What I like about a half-up, half-down hairstyle is it can be really versatile,” says celebrity hairstylist George Northwood. You can just as easily wear it to lounge around the house as take it out for a night on the town.” It’s this easy femininity and simple polish that has led to celebrities opting for the face-framing look more and more. Take Anne Hathaway, whose recent voluminous iteration was paired with a cascade of soft waves, while Lucy Liu’s sleek and polished version was highlighted by a universally flattering center parting. Meanwhile, Ayo Edibiri, who wore a chic, short version of the hairstyle, paired micro-bangs with a sharp finish and a rich-brown smoky eye. Read on to discover Northwood’s tips to master the look.

When recreating any A-list-approved iteration at home, look to the right styling product to help with hold. Northwood recommends a rich but non-greasy moisturizing cream to add texture, while still allowing the hair to grip. “It really helps to keep the style in place when working on an updo,” he says. Apply it to damp hair, from mid-length downwards, and blow-dry it in for best results before sectioning and securing your half-pony.

At the Frankenstein premiere earlier this year, Mia Goth showcased a dreamy half-up, half-down look that let her signature style shine. Her hair was pulled back just enough to lift the crown, while her lengths were left long and soft, framing her face with center-parted, ’70s-inspired side-swept bangs. The effect struck a balance between intentional and effortless – polished enough for a red carpet, yet still relaxed, airy and full of movement. For daytime or more low-key moments, the same spirit applies. Northwood recommends keeping the texture soft, a little tousled and not too ‘done’, allowing those swept-across bangs and loose waves to bring a gentle, undone glamour to the look.

“This look can also be easily transformed into an elevated version for an evening event or red carpet by snatching it at the sides for a super-sleek, dressed-up half-pony,” explains Northwood. “When creating that ultra-polished look, I can’t be without a great-quality hairspray. Oribe’s Superfine Hair Spray is a firm favorite in my kit, as the spray is ultra-fine, meaning hair doesn’t end up with that dry and crispy texture.” Use it sparingly to keep flyaways in place.

For even more impact, you can finish the hairstyle with a statement accessory. Chloë Sevigny’s long black bow is the perfect use for those hoarded gift-bag ribbons and gives the style an elegant edge. For even more ease, try one of the season’s ready-made bows – we love Jennifer Behr’s velvet hair clips. For thicker hair, secure your half-pony with a hair tie first and simply snap the barrette in place slightly above to disguise the tie. Alternatively, embrace the 2000s, using an oversized hair claw to hold your half-pony in place.