What it means
It means stop being stiff for a minute and actually enjoy yourself. You say it when someone's been all work brain, stress face, or proper reserved, and needs a nudge to relax, have a laugh, and join the fun. It can be anything from a chill pint to a messy night out. The whole vibe is loosening up.
Usage examples
"You’ve been in spreadsheet mode all week, mate. Let your hair down and come to the boozer, one pint later it’s karaoke and a dodgy kebab."
"Exams are over, time to let your hair down and actually enjoy the weekend."
"She finally let her hair down at the office party and danced till closing."
"Come on, you don't have to be everyone's responsible auntie tonight. Let your hair down and have a proper dance."
"We finished the project, the boss is gone, and it's Friday. Time to let your hair down a bit, innit."
Where it comes from
This one comes from the literal act of a woman taking her hair down from an updo, especially after formal settings where it had to stay neat and pinned up. By the late 19th century it had widened into a figurative way to mean relaxing, dropping formality, and being more yourself.
Other ways to say it
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