Who does the braiding decides the pick: the crown braid, the waterfall braid and the side braids are all home jobs, while half cornrows need a braider with practice at even rows and clean parts.
If you style alone, start with the crown braid or the waterfall; if you want sharp scalp work or braiding hair in a bold color, book the appointment and bring a photo.
1. Half Down with Crown Braid
A crown braid on a half-down style pulls the front sections back and across the head, so the curls stay loose below while the face stays open.
Braid on slightly damp, defined curls so the braid keeps its grip, then pin the ends flat under the curls. Pull the braid out a little with your fingertips for a softer, fuller crown.
2. Loose Waterfall Halfway Braided Hairstyles
Loose waterfall braids suit curly hair because the braid never has to hold much tension. Each pass drops a strand down into the curls, so the hair below looks fuller and the braid reads as a soft curved line.
Work on dry, defined curls and keep the braid loose. Tight pulling flattens the pattern and makes the whole style look stiff.
A light mist of water brings back frizzy sections before you finish. This is my pick for a relaxed, romantic day.
Enhance your curly hair with a gorgeous braided half up style. There are many different braided hairstyles to choose from, including a simple crown or halo braid or opting for a dreamy and romantic waterfall braid.
3. Half Cornrows and Half Braids
Cornrows across the top with curls hanging below give you a look that is bold but practical, since the scalp section stays flat and tidy while the length keeps its volume.
Cornrows are best done by a braider, because even rows and clean parts take practice.
Bring a photo and ask for cornrows on the top half only, with the lower hair left loose or in curly braids. Wrap the rows at night to cut frizz.
4. Braided Hairstyles with Colorful Braiding Hair
Pink braiding hair worked into brown braids lets you wear a bold color without dyeing your own hair. The curled ends then blend the 2 shades into the loose half.
Pick an extension shade you like next to your natural color, since the contrast is what you see first.
Ask your stylist to blend the color into the braids from the root. Removing extensions is simple, which makes this my favorite low-commitment way to try color.
5. Side Braids with Loose Waves
Two braided side sections feeding into soft waves give long hair structure without hiding its length. Reddish-brown hair shows off the braid pattern well, and the waves keep it relaxed.
Braid each side loosely, secure it at the back, and let the braids rest over the waves.
Define the waves with a light curl cream first so they stay soft. It takes little time, so it works for a quick morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I part my hair for half up half down?
Part it wherever suits you and your face shape, since there is no single correct spot.
A side part softens a rounder face, while a center part pairs well with a crown braid that sits evenly across the front. Try both before pinning anything, because the braid follows the part.
Is it better to braid curly hair wet or dry?
Dry, defined curls hold a braid best, and that is what I use for loose waterfall braids. For a crown braid, slightly damp curls give the braid more grip, so the ends pin flat.
Frizz that pops up in a dry section usually calms down with a quick spritz of water from a fine mist bottle before you tie off the braid.
