If you're looking for a quick and easy hairstyle that's both simple and cute, this half-up bun is for you. It's elegant, sophisticated, and easy to create at home. More than just a quick fix for messy hair, the half-up bun is now a must-have that blends elegance and effortlessness.
One of my favorite things about this hairstyle is its ease and simplicity. But sometimes I get tired of the same old look, so I try to find new ways to change it up. I used to wear my hair in a half-up bun, securing the top with bobby pins or a headband, but it can be challenging to keep it looking polished and not messy.
Whether you're rushing to a morning meeting, getting dressed up for a brunch date, or heading to a music festival, a half-up bun is versatile and versatile. Below, we've rounded up 10 of our favorite half-up bun hairstyles for 2025, perfect for those with curly, straight, or any other hair type. Read on to learn more and find the perfect half-up bun hairstyles for you.
1. Half-up Top Knot
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A half-up top knot exudes a cool-girl vibe. It's the perfect blend of sporty and stylish. It's perfect for the gym, running errands, or pairing with a minimalist look for a sleek, polished look. The key to this half-up topknot is creating texture on the part that will be tied into the bun, ensuring it holds its shape all day.
To achieve this style, first separate your hair into two sections and pull the top section (from the crown forward) into a high ponytail. Twist it tightly into a neat topknot and secure with bobby pins. Leave the bottom section down, either sleek straight or with its natural texture. Then, spritz the top section with hairspray to hold it in place.
2. The Sleek & Polished Half-Up Bun
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Minimalist hair trends are thriving in 2025, and the sleek half-up bun embodies clean sophistication. To achieve this look, straighten your hair with a flat iron, apply a smoothing serum, and gather the crown section into a neat bun secured with bobby pins or a clear elastic.
3. Wrapped Bouffant Ponytail Half-up Bun
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This classic style is a go-to for anyone who loves half-up hairstyles. While the style is admittedly fairly casual (one of the reasons it makes such a great go-to style), it can absolutely be dressed up for your next big event, especially if you need inspiration for half-up, half-down wedding hair. One way to do it is by teasing your crown for extra volume and wrapping a 2-inch section of hair around your hair tie.
4. Curly Top Bun
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Curls and a topknot are a match made in heaven. Whether you're naturally curly or a master with a curling iron, curls are more popular this year than ever before. This style adds volume and definition to curls with a simple styling touch, while also preventing frizz and making your half-up look even more stunning.
To achieve this look, tie the top section of your hair into a bun and let the curls fall naturally. This style not only adds volume but also frames your face. Applying curl cream before styling will enhance elasticity and reduce frizz. Perfect for everyday looks, summer parties, and casual chic looks.
5. The Braided Crown Half-Up Bun
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The braided crown half-up bun remains a popular hairstyle in 2025. Adding a simple braided bun to a half-up hairstyle can create a professional-looking look. This hairstyle creates a playful yet elegant look that elevates your overall look.
To achieve this look, braid two small sections of hair from the front, pull them back, and tie them into a bun. This look is perfect for a night out, weddings, or semi-formal gatherings. This hairstyle is perfect for those who want to look like a queen.
6. Braided Half-up Bun
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This braided bun hairstyle can be used with previously braided hair or naturally loose hair. To create this hairstyle at home, simply divide the half-up ponytail into three strands, braid each strand, and secure it at the end. Next, we braid the three strands together, twist them to the base of the ponytail, and secure them with a bobby pin. This is a very elegant hairstyle.
7. The Face-Framing Half-Up Bun
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This hairstyle showcases texture, wave, and curl in their most natural form, requiring minimal styling for optimal results. To add a playful touch to your half-up, half-down look, we recommend pulling out a few locks from the front to frame your face. For a voluminous effect, we recommend using a round brush and applying a styling spray while blow-drying.
To achieve this look, spritz your hair with sea salt spray. Turn your head over, gather the top locks together, and twist them slightly. Without looking in the mirror, tie your hair into a bun—as casual as possible. Finally, gently pull out a few locks around your face and temples to soften the look and add a captivating frame.
8. The Half-Up Bun With Head Scarves
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Now that fall has finally arrived, consider wearing a head scarf. The best thing about using a head scarf for your hairstyle is that you don't have to dress it up too much. It's also a great solution when you need to wash your hair but don't have the time. It provides coverage!
Adding a head scarf to a half-up bun instantly elevates your look from casual to stylish. This hairstyle is perfect for everyday activities, outings, and other relaxed occasions.
9. Double French Braided Half-up Bun
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The double French braided half-up bun is a cool way to step into the world of Parisian flair. This classic style works wonders to rev up the woven texture throughout your mane for a winning look. It’s also super easy to pull off.
To achieve this look, part your mane at your ears to create a top and bottom section. Split the top half in half and clip the middle part. Clip the other side. Gather three small sections of hair and build a French braid.
Right before you reach the length of your braid, secure your hair with a clear elastic, and repeat on the other side. Combine the length of each braid into a ponytail and form a small bun.
Keep your loose strands in place with bobby pins. Release and fluff the bottom section of your hair. Spritz some shine spray over your finished “do,” and your style is complete.
10. The Bubble Half-Up Bun
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The bubble half-up bun hairstyle is a playful, nostalgic trend that adds a modern twist to the classic half-up. It's a great way to add visual interest and volume, especially for fine hair.
To achieve this look, start with a high, half-up ponytail and secure it with a sturdy rubber band. Then, place several rubber bands evenly along the ponytail, about 2-3 inches apart. Gently tug on each strand of hair between the rubber bands to fluff it up and create the signature bubble effect. Finally, twist the end of the ponytail into a small bun, or leave it as is. This creates a perfect, effortless bun.
