20 Jaw-Dropping Partial Balayage Hairstyles

Looking to refresh your look with a subtle yet striking change? Partial balayage is the perfect way to add depth, brightness, and dimension without committing to a full head of highlights. This low-maintenance hair trend blends color through the mid-lengths and ends, creating a soft, natural sun-kissed effect. From caramel touches to icy blonde accents, partial balayage can be customized for any hair type or base color. Below are 20 jaw-dropping partial balayage hairstyles that are turning heads everywhere.

1. Subtle and Wavy Partial Balayage

Soft waves paired with delicate, sun-kissed brown balayage give this look a breezy elegance.
The light strokes add movement and dimension without overpowering the natural tone.
Ideal for brunettes seeking effortless summer vibes.
This style is low-maintenance and perfect for growing out gracefully.

2. Brunette with Light Brown Highlights

Lighter brown highlights softly break up the base color, offering richness and warmth.
They’re focused on the top layers for natural lift and face-framing glow.
A perfect style for straight or wavy hair needing extra depth.
Polished and subtle, it’s great for daily wear or a glam night out.

3. Brown Hair with Soft Hair-Painting

This hand-painted balayage delivers seamless, blended highlights.
It offers a naturally brightened appearance while remaining understated.
Great for those who want a “barely there” color upgrade.
The softness enhances texture, especially in mid-length cuts.

4. Long Brown Locks with Partial Highlights

This style features long, flowing strands subtly enhanced underneath.
Partial highlights peek out with movement for a dimensional surprise.
Perfect for those who want contrast without a dramatic change.
It adds softness and visual texture to thick or straight hair.

5. Caramel and Cinnamon Highlights

Warm caramel and cinnamon tones spice up deep brunette bases.
The color adds cozy richness while keeping things modern and wearable.
This partial balayage works especially well with layered cuts.
It’s a flattering, year-round color option that complements warm skin tones.

6. Blonde Balayage on Brown Locks

Blonde streaks are painted into brown hair for a sunlit, beachy effect.
The result is a dynamic contrast that still looks soft and seamless.
Curls or waves bring out the dimension beautifully.
Ideal for brunettes wanting to brighten their style without a full dye.

7. Bob with Partial Balayage

A sleek bob comes alive with subtle face-framing balayage strokes.
This short style pops with added shine and definition from partial highlights.
It’s a chic and low-effort upgrade to a classic haircut.
Perfect for professionals or trendsetters alike.

8. Brown-to-Blonde Low Balayage

The fade from brown roots to light blonde ends is gentle and natural.
This low placement of highlights keeps the look polished yet modern.
It’s excellent for long styles with waves or loose curls.
A go-to choice for anyone who loves contrast with grace.

9. Choppy Cut with Mixed Highlights

Textured layers are elevated with both bold and soft highlight tones.
The blend of caramel, beige, or blonde gives extra visual interest.
This edgy cut gets a touch of softness through partial balayage.
Ideal for trendy, medium-length hairstyles with movement.

10. Long Black Hair with Brown Highlights

Warm brown strokes illuminate long, dark hair with striking depth.
This partial balayage adds softness and prevents flatness in dark styles.
Loose waves bring out the highlight pattern beautifully.
It’s perfect for anyone wanting shine and contrast without harsh color.

11. Long Brown Hairstyle with Blonde Highlights

Strategically placed blonde accents enhance the hair’s natural texture.
The highlights start mid-length and frame the face for brightness.
This look works well with curls, waves, or layered styles.
It offers a sunlit effect that’s feminine and flattering.

12. Red-Haired Semi-Balayage

Auburn or red tones get a luminous lift with a few blonde strokes.
The result is warm, multidimensional, and vibrant without being loud.
Curls or waves help showcase the contrast beautifully.
Great for natural redheads wanting a subtle twist.

13. Curled Auburn Hair with Highlights

Barrel curls reveal glowing blonde or copper highlights within auburn hair.
The balayage is placed to highlight volume and motion.
It adds richness and polish to this bold base color.
Great for events or everyday glam looks.

14. Face-Framing Candlelit Highlights

These partial highlights are focused around the face for a radiant glow.
They mimic the effect of soft candlelight — gentle and warm.
Perfect for adding brightness without touching the whole head.
Especially flattering for layered cuts and middle parts.

15. Sandy Pieces on a Dark Base

Cool sandy tones break up a deep base for breezy contrast.
It’s a striking blend that still looks soft and beach-inspired.
Great on long or mid-length hair with soft texture.
This style gives a light, airy vibe that feels fresh and modern.

16. Natural-Looking Caramel Glaze

This soft glaze balayage adds just a whisper of caramel warmth.
It’s ideal for enhancing shine and dimension subtly.
Best for brunettes who want depth without bold color.
The effect is effortless and easy to maintain.

17. Creative Placement Balayage

Custom color placement allows for a personalized, artistic finish.
Highlights are added to flatter face shape and enhance movement.
It’s perfect for those wanting something unique yet wearable.
This style thrives on individuality and subtle impact.

18. Subtle Highlighted Brunette Style

Fine strands are lightly painted to gently brighten the brunette base.
The overall look is minimalist, refined, and elegant.
Great for straight or smooth styles needing some lift.
It’s a no-fuss approach to balayage with big payoff.

19. Minimalist Highlights on Dark Hair

Sparse espresso or mocha tones create depth on very dark hair.
This style keeps things sleek and low-key while still polished.
It’s ideal for professionals or low-maintenance routines.
Natural texture shines through beautifully with this look.

20. Ash Brown Partial Balayage on Black Hair

Ash-brown micro highlights cool down a deep black base.
The result is modern, smoky, and very on-trend.
Great for those who want definition without warmth.
Perfect for both straight and lightly tousled styles.