This 1-Minute Half-up Hairstyle Looks Amazing

Shonagh Scott
by Shonagh Scott

Banana clips are making a comeback, and modern versions are more flexible, lightweight, and comfortable than the classic ones from decades past.


This tutorial will show you how to create a quick, heatless half-up hairstyle using a modern elastic banana clip. It’s an easy style that adds volume while being gentle on your hair.

Upstyle Recommends!

Style your hair and get maximum volume with this highly rated Paul Mitchell Extra-Body Boost Volumizing Spray that Amazon reviewers swear by!

Tools and materials:

  • Modern elastic banana clip (smaller size recommended for half-up styles)
  • Hair grips (optional)
  • Comb 
  • Curling tong (optional, for smoother finish)
Banana clip

1. Get a modern banana clip

The banana clips from decades ago were large and hard. Try one of these new-style banana clips. They are lightweight and thin, have prongs that fit together, and can bend to shape.

Banana clip

You secure it in place with the attached elastic over a plastic ball.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

2. Create a zigzag part

Starting at the base of your hairline, lightly zigzag part your hair up toward the crown. Separate the top section from the bottom section.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

2. Secure or rest the top section

Loosely gather the top section of hair and either secure it lightly with a hair grip or simply rest it on top of your head while you prepare the clip.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

3. Position the banana clip

Hold the banana clip with the elastic facing toward the front of your head. This makes it easier to secure once the hair is inside the prongs.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

4. Scoop hair into the clip

Use the clip to scoop up the side sections of the top hair portion, making sure the hair sits evenly between the prongs.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

5. Secure the elastic

Stretch the elastic over the end ball or hook of the clip to lock it into place. Make sure it feels secure but not overly tight.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

6. Release the remaining hair

Let down any hair you temporarily tied or rested on top. Allow it to fall naturally over and around the clip.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

7. Separate and shape the top section

Lightly separate the top section near the center. It may look unusual at first—this is normal—but it helps create volume and shape.

Creating a half-up hairstyle

8. Add volume and face-framing pieces

Gently pull small tendrils near the crown to create lift. Pull out a few front pieces fully to frame the face and help conceal the top of the clip.

Cute half-up hairstyle

Half-up hairstyle

Check that the clip prongs and any grips are secure. Smooth or fluff sections as needed until you get your desired volume and shape.


You now have a cute, quick, heatless half-up hairstyle that’s great for everyday wear and supports overall hair health.


You can wear it as-is for a natural look or use heat styling beforehand for a smoother finish. Try it out and tweak it to suit your hair type and volume preference!


Then leave a comment to let me know if you've just ordered your new-style banana clip!

The author may collect a small share of sales from the links on this page.

Comments
Join the conversation
 1 comment
  • Kathryn Wilson Kathryn Wilson on Feb 16, 2026

    Your hair is so pretty, I love the casual curls.

    I ordered the clips and spray.

    please send more hair style ideas.

    i have shoulder length hair.

    Thank you!

    Have a wonderful day!

    KW🙂

Next