Wedding half updo styles we are coveting right now

The half up, half down hairstyle is a much loved classic that can be customised to suit your style and wedding theme. With the right accessories, you can personalise your hair for a truly unique bridal look.

The classic wedding half up, half down hairstyle has been a bridal favourite for decades, and for good reason. It’s the perfect balance between polished and relaxed styling, and adapts beautifully to luxe, boho and minimalist bridal looks. On a practical note, the half updo creates the perfect base for your headpiece and veil while keeping your hair off your face.

This hairstyle works beautifully with various hair lengths and textures, and can be customised with accessories to complement your bridal look.

Let’s explore why the half up, half down hairstyle is a favourite among brides and how to style it to perfection.

Shop this look: MEADOW hair pins

1. The half updo knot

Looking for something a little different, modern, yet still chic? The half updo knot might be perfect for you. For boho lovers, experiment and mess it up. For a more glamorous and polished look, style it with soft waves and a smooth finish.

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How to style a half up knot

Depending on the size of the knot, you might be able to give hair accessories a miss and focus on statement earrings to balance your look.
A simple hair pin or a delicate vine can create a beautiful focal point for simpler hairstyles.
Planning to wear a veil? Choose one that has been attached to a smaller comb like our AUDREY, THEODORE or MORNING MIST styles. Position it directly above your updo if the knot volume isn’t too grand. Or, just underneath to create a beautiful waterfall-like feel.

Shop this look: OYSTER hair pins, AUDREY wedding veil, GEMINI hair piece

2. The relaxed boho half updo

We love this style for its relaxed intricacy. Loosely inspired by the fishtail braid, this updated hairstyle feels unrestrained yet formal enough to wear on your wedding day.

Braids and plaits are perfect for brides with thin hair wanting to achieve some volume. Weave in some subtle extensions to help create a romantic updo, while providing that much sort after volume. We are a little obsessed with braids that overlap each other, yet sit flush against the crown.

Images: Pinterest | Pinterest

How to style a relaxed boho half updo

For simple elegance, set dainty hair pins or a medium sized comb amongst your braids.
If you’re looking to add a touch of opulence and regality, pair this look with a wedding halo or crown.
Planning to wear a wedding veil? Position your veil’s comb just above or just below your braids.

Shop this look: WHISPER hair pins, HARLOW headpiece, SOMERSET headpiece, ODE TO DUSK hair comb, RAFAEL hair piece

3. Twisted half upstyle

Initially adored by bohemian and beachy brides, this sophisticated half updo works gloriously for those with natural (or stylist-set) curls. To create a look that showcases your cheekbones, start your twists above your ear level and create a little volume at your crown. For a more relaxed vibe, sit your twists a little lower – at or below ear height – and loosen your twists.

How to style a twisted half upstyle

Choose a wedding hair comb or vine that accentuates the twists and curves of your hairstyle.
A veil that’s attached to a comb (1.5-3.5 inches wide) will feel flattering and proportional.
A sheer drop veil will offer a beautiful transparency which will let your hairstyle shine through.

Shop this look: VERSE bridal comb, WILDERMERE headpiece, WISTERIA headpiece

4. French twist inspired hairstyles

This romantic updo is as effortless as it is chic. This simple half updo hairstyle is brought to life with sculptural twists and folds, at times reminiscent of a French twist.

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How to style this look

Scatter hair pins along the curves and twists of your half up hairstyle
Nestle a hair comb into the back of your hair to add a touch of drama
Consider a veil that’s attached to a small hair comb (1.5-2 inches) to not overwhelm your hairstyle. Our favourite styles include the AUDREY and THEODORE.
A birdcage veil will draw attention to the front and sides of your face, showcasing your hairstyle.

Shop this look: MEADOW hair pins, GILDED LILY hair piece, OYSTER pearl hair pins

Need personalised styling advice?

Feel free to send us an email with photos of your wedding dress and bridal hairstyle and we would be happy to send you recommendations and ideas via email.

Every wedding gown and bride is different and the perfect accessories for you will not only depend on your gown but your personal style, vision, height and style. We love to work with our brides to create the perfect veil that you will love to keep as an heirloom after your wedding day. We are based in Australia and ship worldwide.