Winter formal season is upon us, and that means it’s time to start thinking about the perfect hairstyle. A half-up braid is a classic and versatile choice that can be dressed up or down to suit any formal occasion. It offers a touch of elegance while keeping your hair out of your face for a night of dancing and fun. This year, trends are leaning towards romantic, textured styles with a hint of effortless chic. From intricate braids to loose waves, there’s a half-up braid hairstyle for every hair type and personal style. Let’s explore some stunning winter formal half-up braid ideas to inspire your look.
Romantic Waterfall Braid with Loose Curls
This ethereal style combines the beauty of a waterfall braid with the softness of loose curls. Start by creating a waterfall braid along the crown of your head, letting strands cascade down like a waterfall. Curl the remaining hair with a large-barrel curling iron for voluminous, romantic waves. This style is perfect for those with long, flowing hair and complements pastel or jewel-toned dresses beautifully. Consider adding delicate hair accessories like pearl pins or floral sprigs for a touch of whimsy. This style is trending in both the US and EU, often seen with a center part for a modern touch.
Dutch Braid Crown with Sleek Low Bun
For a more regal look, opt for a Dutch braid crown that encircles the head. This intricate braid adds a touch of drama and sophistication. Gather the top section of your hair and create a Dutch braid, starting at one temple and working your way around. Secure the braid at the back and gather the remaining hair into a sleek low bun. This hairstyle works well with bolder makeup and statement jewelry. Darker hair colors, like deep brunette or black, truly make this braid stand out. This style is popular in the EU, often seen on formal occasions and red carpets.
Fishtail Half-Up Braid with Textured Waves
Add a touch of bohemian flair to your formal look with a fishtail half-up braid. This intricate braid adds visual interest and texture. Create a fishtail braid with a section of hair from each side of your head and secure it at the back with a clear elastic. Curl the remaining hair with a medium-barrel curling iron for tousled, textured waves. This style pairs well with flowy dresses and natural makeup. Consider adding a metallic hair cuff or beaded barrette for a touch of sparkle. This relaxed yet elegant style is gaining popularity in the US, particularly for outdoor winter formals.
Twisted Half-Updo with Face-Framing Tendrils
For a simple yet elegant look, try a twisted half-updo. Twist sections of hair from each side of your head and secure them at the back with bobby pins. Leave a few face-framing tendrils loose for a soft, romantic touch. Curl the remaining hair for added volume and texture. This hairstyle is versatile and works well with a variety of hair lengths and textures. It’s particularly popular in the US for its effortless elegance, often paired with minimalist jewelry and soft, smoky eye makeup. Adding a touch of glitter hairspray to the twisted sections can elevate the look for the evening.
Braided Headband with Voluminous Curls
Create a romantic and whimsical look with a braided headband. French braid a section of hair along your hairline from one ear to the other. Secure the braid with bobby pins and let the remaining hair flow freely in voluminous curls. This style is perfect for showing off highlights or balayage. In the EU, this style is often seen with a more intricate braid, incorporating flowers or ribbons. This hairstyle is perfect for those with medium to long hair and complements both classic and modern formal wear.
Half-Up Knot with Sleek Straight Hair
For a modern and chic look, opt for a half-up knot. Gather a section of hair from each side of your head and tie it into a knot at the back. Secure the knot with bobby pins and leave the remaining hair sleek and straight. This minimalist style is perfect for those who prefer a clean and polished look. This hairstyle is trending in both the US and EU and is often seen on celebrities and influencers. It’s a versatile choice that complements bold makeup looks and statement earrings.
Pull-Through Braid with Soft Waves
The pull-through braid offers a unique and textured look. Create small ponytails along the crown of your head and gently pull sections of hair through each other, creating a braided effect. Curl the remaining hair for soft, flowing waves. This style adds volume and dimension to fine hair. Adding small pearl beads along the braid is a trend seen in the EU. This hairstyle is gaining popularity in the US for its intricate yet approachable look, suitable for various hair lengths and textures.
Boho Half-Up Braid with Floral Accents
Embrace your inner bohemian with a loose, textured half-up braid adorned with floral accents. Create a simple three-strand braid and secure it with a clear elastic. Incorporate small flowers or greenery into the braid for a whimsical touch. This style pairs perfectly with flowy dresses and natural makeup. Larger, statement flowers are a trend in the US, while smaller, more delicate flowers are popular in the EU. This hairstyle is a favorite for outdoor winter formals and complements a romantic, free-spirited vibe.
Side-Swept Fishtail Braid with Hollywood Waves
For a glamorous and red-carpet-worthy look, opt for a side-swept fishtail braid with Hollywood waves. Create a fishtail braid starting at one temple and sweeping it across to the other side. Secure the braid with bobby pins and style the remaining hair in classic Hollywood waves. This style is perfect for those with long, thick hair. Deep side parts and bold lip colors are popular pairings in both the US and EU. This hairstyle exudes sophistication and elegance, making it a perfect choice for a black-tie winter formal.
Double Dutch Braid Half-Updo with Loose Curls
Elevate your half-updo with double Dutch braids. Create two Dutch braids, one on each side of your head, and secure them at the back with a clear elastic. Curl the remaining hair for bouncy, loose curls. This style adds a playful and youthful touch to your formal look. Adding colorful ribbons or metallic threads to the braids is a trend seen in the EU, while in the US, the focus is on the texture and volume of the curls. This hairstyle is a great option for showcasing hair highlights and adds a dynamic element to your overall look.
Half-Up Space Buns with Glittery Accents
For a fun and playful look, try half-up space buns. Gather two sections of hair from the top of your head and twist them into buns, securing them with bobby pins. Add glitter hairspray or sparkly hair accessories for a festive touch. This youthful style is perfect for those who want to stand out. This trend is popular in both the US and EU, often seen with bright and bold hair colors. This hairstyle is a great way to express your personality and add a touch of whimsy to your winter formal look.
Half-Up Crown Braid with Face-Framing Braids
This intricate style combines a crown braid with delicate face-framing braids. Braid a section of hair around the crown of your head, leaving out small sections at the front. Braid these sections and let them frame your face. This elegant and romantic hairstyle is perfect for special occasions. Adding small crystals or pearls to the braids is a trend in the EU. This hairstyle is a statement piece that requires some braiding skills but delivers a truly stunning and unforgettable look.
Rope Twist Half-Updo with Beach Waves
For a relaxed and effortless vibe, try a rope twist half-updo with beach waves. Twist two sections of hair from each side of your head and secure them at the back. Style the remaining hair in loose, tousled beach waves. This hairstyle is perfect for those with medium to long hair. Adding a texturizing spray for a more matte finish is a trend in the US. This hairstyle complements a more casual winter formal and is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance yet stylish look.
Chunky Half-Up Braid with Sleek Ponytail
Make a statement with a chunky half-up braid. Create a large, voluminous braid with a section of hair from the crown of your head. Gather the remaining hair into a sleek high ponytail. This bold and modern style is perfect for those who want to make a statement. This hairstyle is particularly popular in the US, often seen with bold hair accessories like metallic cuffs or geometric barrettes. It complements a confident and edgy style.
