I've always preferred wearing my hair down to up, but now it's a lot shorter so I guess it's close to being put "up" because it doesn't touch my shoulders. My ends are amazing! I think it's really all about how much you take care if them though, I believe you can wear your hair however with very little difference as long as you BABY YOUR ENDS!
Eta: ponytails and buns actually give me headaches
HHG!