Prom night is your time to shine, and your hairstyle should be just as breathtaking as your dress.
If you’re looking for the perfect balance between sophisticated and effortlessly beautiful, a half up half down hairstyle with braids is the way to go. It’s the ultimate prom look—soft, romantic, and versatile enough to complement any hair type or length.
As a hairstylist, I know how important it is to find a style that makes you feel confident, stays put all night, and looks flawless from every angle (especially in photos!).
That’s why I’ve rounded up the most stunning half up half down braided hairstyles for prom—whether you love delicate fishtail details, elegant waterfall braids, or boho-inspired twists.
So, if you’re dreaming of a prom hairstyle that’s chic yet playful, formal yet fun, you’re in the right place.
Let’s dive into the prettiest prom-worthy braided styles that will make you look and feel like a queen on your big night!
1. Braided Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles for Short Hair
Short-haired ladies, this one’s for you! Add intricate braided details to your half-up style to create dimension and flair.
Perfect for casual outings or low-maintenance events, this style works best with layered short cuts.
2. Loose Curls with a Braided Half-Up Half-Down Hair
Combine soft, romantic curls with a delicate braid for an effortlessly feminine look.
Ideal for date nights or Valentine’s Day, this hairstyle complements round and square faces beautifully. It’s an easy way to add volume and texture to thin hair.
Related: 21+ Stunning Curly Hairstyles for Black Women That Fit Every Occasion!
3. Half-Up with Butterfly Braids Hairstyle
This rope braid style is perfect for women seeking elegance with a touch of simplicity.
Suited for oval or long faces, it pairs well with sleek straight hair. Try this for a minimal yet polished look that’s easy to achieve.
4. Half-Up Half-Down Hair with Braids for Black Women
Celebrate natural textures with braided half-up styles that highlight your curls or coils. Add beads or gold accents for extra glam, making it ideal for weddings or celebrations.
This style embraces boldness and elegance in one. You can explore more braided hairstyles for black women here.
5. Half-Up French Braid Crown
Combine the finesse of a French braid with the simplicity of a crown for a chic and stylish look.
Best for medium-length hair, it frames oval and heart-shaped faces beautifully. Try this for a hairstyle that’s perfect for daytime outings or evening events.
6. Boho Half-Up Half-Down Braid Hairstyle
Add a touch of bohemian charm with this relaxed braided look. Perfect for outdoor weddings or festivals, it suits oval and heart-shaped faces and works beautifully on medium to long hair.
Try this for a carefree yet chic vibe that’s easy to style and maintain. Explore more braided hairstyles here.
7. Fishtail Braid in a Half-Up Half-Down Style
If you love intricate designs, this fishtail braid is a showstopper. Ideal for women with fine hair who want added texture, it complements round and square faces.
This braided hairstyle is perfect for creating a polished look for formal occasions!
8. Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles with Braided Crowns
Channel your inner queen with this elegant braided crown style. Best suited for women with medium to thick hair, it frames oval and long faces beautifully. Perfect for proms or weddings, it brings a royal yet effortless vibe.
Related: 21 Breathtaking Half Up Half Down Prom Hairstyles You’ll Want to Try!
9. Half-Up Half-Down Waterfall Braid
Create a flowing cascade effect with this romantic waterfall braid. Great for wavy or straight hair, it enhances the natural beauty of round and heart-shaped faces.
It’s a timeless option that looks amazing in photos, making it ideal for weddings or anniversaries.
10. Half-Up Half-Down Twisted Braids
This style combines simplicity and elegance with twisted braids flowing into loose locks. It suits all face shapes and hair types, making it a go-to for busy women who want a quick yet stylish option. Add floral pins for a festive touch.
11. Flowers in a Half-Up Half-Down Braid Hairstyle
Perfect for garden parties or outdoor events, this look incorporates delicate flowers into braided sections. It suits younger women with round or oval faces and adds a whimsical vibe to any outfit.
Related: 21+ Popular Hairstyles for Curly Hair to Rock in 2025 | Perfect for Every Mood and Occasion!
12. Easy Half-Up Braided Hairstyles
When simplicity meets style, you get this effortlessly chic braided look. Ideal for college students or busy moms, it’s quick to create and works on medium-length hair. You’ll love how versatile it is for both casual and formal events.
13. Half-Up Half-Down Dutch Braid
This bold yet classic style is perfect for thick hair and square face shapes. The Dutch braid adds dimension, making it great for proms or fancy dinners. Pair it with dangling earrings for an added wow factor.
14. Double Braid Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyle
Double the braids, double the charm! This look combines two delicate braids into a flowing half-up style, ideal for women with long, thick hair. It’s perfect for achieving a romantic vibe at weddings or formal dinners.
15. Half-Up French Braid Style
This timeless French braid seamlessly blends into loose waves for a polished yet effortless look.
It suits women with straight or wavy hair, especially those with oval or heart-shaped faces. Great for busy professionals who need a chic hairstyle for the office or evening events.
16. Backwards Bubble Braid into a High Bun
Turn heads with this unique backwards bubble braid that leads into a sleek high bun, blending edgy and elegant vibes.
Perfect for women with long or medium-length hair, this style works well for active lifestyles, special occasions, or even a bold everyday look.
It’s a great way to add volume, texture, and a modern twist to a classic updo while keeping your hair secure and stylish all day.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for exploring these stylish half-up half-down braided hairstyles for prom!
With options ranging from romantic to playful, there’s something for prom or you can style on any occasion and personality.
Let your creativity shine by experimenting with accessories, curls, or colors to make the look truly yours.
Don’t forget to pin your favorite styles on Pinterest and share the inspiration with friends on Instagram and Facebook.
Explore more hairstyle ideas on our site, where you’ll find trending looks to match every occasion and mood!
Related: 21 Stunning Half Up Half Down Hairstyles for a Glamorous Look!
Happy styling!
