Side part hairstyles have made a triumphant comeback and we’re here for it. This classic hair trend that dominated the early 2000s is now taking over social media feeds and red carpets everywhere. From sleek and sophisticated looks to tousled beach waves, the side part offers endless versatility for every hair type and face shape.
We’ve witnessed countless celebrities and influencers embrace this timeless style, proving that sometimes the most elegant looks are also the simplest. Whether you’re dealing with fine hair that needs volume or thick locks that require taming, a well-executed side part can transform your entire appearance in seconds.
The best part? You don’t need expensive salon treatments or complicated styling tools to master this look. We’ll show you exactly how to create stunning side part hairstyles that’ll have you looking effortlessly chic from morning meetings to evening events.
Classic Side Part Hairstyles That Never Go Out of Style
These timeless looks have graced runways and red carpets for decades, proving their enduring appeal across generations.
The Traditional Deep Side Part
Deep side parts create dramatic contrast by positioning the part far to one side of your head. This classic technique works exceptionally well for those with straight to slightly wavy hair textures. We recommend using a fine-tooth comb to create a crisp, clean line that extends from your hairline to the crown.
Start by dampening your hair slightly for better control. Position the part approximately two inches from your natural center line. Sweep the larger section of hair across your forehead, allowing it to frame one side of your face naturally. This style pairs beautifully with shoulder-length cuts, long layers, and even pixie styles.
The Subtle Side Sweep
Subtle side sweeps offer a softer alternative to dramatic deep parts while maintaining sophisticated elegance. This approach involves creating a gentle curve rather than a sharp line, making it perfect for casual everyday wear. We find this technique particularly flattering for round and square face shapes.
Begin with slightly damp hair and use your fingers instead of a comb for a more relaxed finish. Create the part about one inch from your natural center line. Gently brush the hair to one side using a wide-tooth comb or boar bristle brush. The result should look effortless yet polished, making it ideal for professional settings and weekend outings alike.
The Vintage Hollywood Glamour Look
Vintage Hollywood glamour transforms the simple side part into a show-stopping statement reminiscent of 1940s silver screen sirens. This sophisticated style features deep waves that cascade elegantly over one shoulder. We love how this look elevates any formal occasion or special event.
Create this timeless style by establishing a deep side part first. Use hot rollers or a large barrel curling iron to form loose S-shaped waves throughout your hair. Brush through the curls gently with a boar bristle brush to create smooth, connected waves. Sweep the hair dramatically to one side and secure behind your ear with bobby pins that match your hair color.
Modern Side Part Hairstyles for Contemporary Appeal
Contemporary side part styles blend traditional techniques with current trends to create fresh, versatile looks. We’ve curated these cutting edge variations that prove the side part remains as relevant today as ever.
The Textured Side Part with Layers
Textured side parts with layers deliver effortless volume and movement that works beautifully on any hair type. Layered cuts create natural lift while adding dimensional shape that flatters every face shape. We recommend using texture sprays to enhance the layered effect and create added depth throughout your style.
This modern approach transforms a simple side part into a ever-changing look with plenty of visual interest. Styling becomes incredibly easy since the layers naturally fall into place with minimal effort. Different textures respond uniquely to this cut, making it one of the most adaptable contemporary styles available.
The Asymmetrical Side Part Bob
Asymmetrical side part bobs combine geometric precision with sophisticated elegance for a truly chic appearance. Side swept bangs complement this style perfectly, creating a polished look that transitions seamlessly from office meetings to evening events. Natural texture paired with layered cuts enhances the asymmetrical element while maintaining a refined finish.
Bold angles define this contemporary bob while the side part adds softness to balance the overall aesthetic. Versatility makes this style ideal for women who want a professional look that still feels fashion forward. Maintenance requirements remain minimal since the cut naturally grows out beautifully.
The Side Part with Undercut
Side parts paired with undercuts create striking contrasts that define modern masculine style. Clean undercut sides provide the perfect backdrop for high volume styling on top, resulting in a bold yet refined appearance. Well groomed beards complement this combination by creating balanced proportions that enhance the overall look.
Sharp lines distinguish this style from traditional side parts while maintaining classic appeal. Fade techniques can be incorporated into the undercut for additional customization options. Professional settings welcome this polished approach to contemporary men’s styling, making it perfect for business environments.
Skin fade variations elevate this style even further by creating seamless transitions between different hair lengths. Blended beards accentuate the jawline while drawing attention to the carefully crafted side part above. Soft side swept variations offer a more natural alternative that maintains the modern edge without appearing too structured.
Side Part Hairstyles for Different Hair Lengths
Your hair length plays a crucial role in determining which side part style will work best for you. We’ll explore the most flattering options across different lengths to help you find your perfect match.
Short Hair Side Part Styles
Side Part Bob creates a timeless foundation that enhances any face shape with its classic appeal. This versatile cut works exceptionally well with straight or slightly wavy hair textures, offering a polished look that’s both professional and chic. We recommend this style for those seeking a low maintenance option that still delivers maximum impact.
Side Part Pixie Cut adds elegance and sophistication to your shortest hair lengths. The strategic placement of the part creates visual interest while maintaining the clean lines that make pixie cuts so appealing. This style works particularly well for those with fine hair who want to create the illusion of fuller volume.
Medium Length Side Part Options
Angled Bob delivers a ever-changing look that suits most hair types through its strategic layering technique. This medium length option creates movement and dimension while the side part adds asymmetrical interest that flatters various face shapes. We find this cut particularly effective for those transitioning from longer to shorter hair.
Soft Collarbone Cut provides the ideal length for creating feminine, flowing styles with side parts. This versatile length hits right at the collarbone, offering enough hair to style in multiple ways while maintaining easy manageability. The soft layers work beautifully with the side part to frame the face naturally.
Long Hair Side Part Variations
Long Layered Cut enhances movement and flow through strategic layer placement that works harmoniously with side parts. Adding layers to long hair prevents the weight from pulling down your style while creating beautiful cascading effects. We recommend this approach for those who want to maintain length while adding visual interest.
Modern Long Hair Side Part works exceptionally well with straight, wavy, or fine hair when styled with lightweight creams for hold. This contemporary approach to the classic side part maintains the hair’s natural texture while providing gentle control. Using minimal product ensures the hair moves naturally while keeping the part defined throughout the day.
Side Part Hairstyles Based on Hair Texture
Your hair texture plays a crucial role in determining how to achieve the perfect side part. Different textures require exact styling approaches and products to create the most flattering look.
Side Parts for Straight Hair
Sleek straight hair offers the perfect canvas for creating sharp, defined side parts that exude sophistication. We recommend emphasizing the natural smoothness by using styling products that enhance shine and maintain a polished appearance throughout the day. A small amount of hair serum or light hold pomade adds essential texture and creates that coveted glossy finish that makes straight hair side parts so striking.
Creating precision becomes effortless with straight hair since each strand naturally falls into place. The key lies in using a fine-tooth comb to establish a clean parting line that remains intact for hours. Products like lightweight serums prevent flyaways while adding dimensional shine that catches light beautifully.
Side Parts for Wavy Hair
Natural waves create stunning depth when paired with soft side parts that complement your hair’s organic flow. We focus on improving the existing texture rather than fighting against it, which results in effortlessly chic styles that look intentionally undone. Sea salt spray becomes your best friend for amplifying natural texture while adding volume that makes wavy side parts appear fuller and more ever-changing.
Texturizing techniques work exceptionally well with wavy hair since they add dimension without creating stiffness. The goal involves working with your waves to create movement that flows naturally from the part. This approach ensures your side part looks lived in rather than overly structured, which perfectly suits wavy hair’s inherently relaxed nature.
Side Parts for Curly Hair
Curly hair thrives when we work with its natural texture to create side parts that look effortlessly beautiful. Precision in parting becomes crucial for maintaining structure while allowing curls to maintain their organic bounce and shape. Curl activators or light hold styling creams enhance definition without weighing down your curls, ensuring they maintain their natural volume and movement.
Creating clean parts in curly hair requires patience and the right technique since curls naturally want to spring back into their preferred position. We recommend using your fingers rather than combs to gently guide curls away from the part, which preserves their natural formation. This method prevents disrupting the curl pattern while establishing a clear side part that frames your face beautifully.
Professional Side Part Hairstyles for the Workplace
Moving from personal style to professional settings, we’ll explore side part hairstyles that project confidence and competence in corporate environments. These workplace appropriate styles maintain the classic elegance of the side part while meeting professional standards.
The Polished Corporate Side Part
Classic Side Part Fade delivers sharp precision that’s perfect for corporate settings. This versatile style combines a traditional side part with modern fade techniques, creating clean lines that are easy to maintain throughout busy workdays. We recommend this cut for professionals who want a timeless look that requires minimal daily styling.
Wavy Side Part transforms natural texture into sophisticated workplace style. Men with wavy hair can embrace their natural movement while maintaining professional polish by using light pomade or mousse to control waves. This approach keeps the style looking intentional rather than casual, making it ideal for business meetings and client presentations.
The Sleek Business Professional Look
Side Part with Comb Over represents the gold standard of business hairstyles. This classic approach involves brushing hair to one side with short back and sides, creating a look that exudes confidence and professionalism in any corporate environment. The clean lines and structured appearance make it suitable for executives and entry level professionals alike.
Textured Comb Over adds modern refinement to traditional business styles. This variation incorporates volume and texture while maintaining the polished appearance that business professionals need to project confidence. The added dimension creates visual interest without compromising the conservative nature required in most workplace settings.
The Sophisticated Executive Style
Quiff with Side Part blends contemporary trends with executive level sophistication. This modern interpretation combines the height and volume of a quiff with the classic elegance of a side part, creating a style that’s both current and timeless. Executive professionals appreciate this cut’s ability to convey leadership while remaining appropriately conservative.
Loosely Parted Curls offer a polished solution for professionals with naturally curly hair. This style blends natural texture with a refined finish, creating a relaxed yet professional appearance that works well in creative industries and flexible corporate environments. The key lies in maintaining definition while keeping the overall look neat and intentional.
Casual Side Part Hairstyles for Everyday Wear
Side part hairstyles work beautifully for daily wear when you want to look put together without spending hours styling. These effortless options combine the timeless appeal of a side part with relaxed textures that suit busy lifestyles.
The Effortless Tousled Side Part
Tousled side parts create the perfect balance between polished and relaxed for everyday styling. This versatile look works with most hair lengths and types, making it an ideal choice for those who want consistent results. Texture spray or pomade adds volume and creates that perfectly undone feel we’re all after.
Simply create your side part while hair is damp, apply a small amount of texturizing product, and scrunch gently as you air dry. The key is embracing slight imperfections rather than fighting for perfect smoothness. This approach gives you a natural, lived in look that appears effortless yet intentional.
The Relaxed Beachy Side Part
Beachy side parts bring casual coastal vibes to your everyday routine through loose, natural waves. This style perfectly captures that effortless summer feeling regardless of the season. Sea salt spray enhances your hair’s natural texture while adding the tousled movement that defines this look.
Start with towel dried hair and apply sea salt spray from mid length to ends, avoiding the roots to prevent heaviness. Scrunch sections gently and let your hair air dry, or use a diffuser on low heat for faster results. The natural variation in wave patterns creates that authentic beachy texture we love.
The Low-Maintenance Side Sweep
Side sweeps offer maximum style impact with minimal daily effort, making them perfect for busy mornings. This technique involves simply sweeping your hair to one side while adding subtle volume at the roots for lift. The style works beautifully on its own or can be elevated with accessories like headbands for added elegance.
Create this look by applying a lightweight volumizing mousse to damp roots, then use your fingers to sweep hair to your preferred side as it dries. A soft hold hairspray keeps everything in place throughout the day without stiffness. The beauty lies in how this style adapts to your hair’s natural movement while maintaining that polished side part structure.
Formal Side Part Hairstyles for Special Occasions
When special events call for elevated elegance, formal side part hairstyles deliver the sophisticated polish you need. These refined looks transform the classic side part into stunning formal styles perfect for weddings, galas, and red carpet moments.
The Elegant Side Part Updo
Transform your side part into a sophisticated updo that exudes timeless elegance for your most important occasions. This sleek style features a low bun positioned at the nape of your neck, creating a polished foundation that complements formal attire beautifully.
Creating this look begins with establishing a clean side part using a fine-tooth comb. Smooth your hair away from your face using a lightweight styling cream to eliminate any flyaways. Gather your hair into a low ponytail, then twist it into a neat bun and secure with bobby pins that match your hair color.
Hair accessories elevate this classic updo to new heights of glamour. Sparkling clips positioned along the part add subtle shimmer that catches the light. Floral pieces create romantic touches perfect for outdoor weddings or garden parties. Pearl-adorned pins offer vintage elegance that pairs beautifully with classic formal wear.
The Glamorous Side Part with Curls
Embrace vintage Hollywood glamour with soft curls that cascade elegantly from a deep side part. This style channels old-industry sophistication while remaining thoroughly modern and wearable for today’s formal events.
Start by creating voluminous curls using a large barrel curling iron or hot rollers. Deep side parts work best with this style, so position your part dramatically to one side using a rat-tail comb. Brush through the curls gently with a paddle brush to create soft, flowing waves that maintain their shape throughout your event.
Glittering hair clips enhance the glamorous appeal of this vintage-inspired look. Position clips strategically along the deeper side of your part to add sparkle without overwhelming the style. Multiple small clips create more impact than one large accessory, allowing you to customize the level of glamour based on your event’s formality.
The Red Carpet Side Part Style
Master the sophisticated side-swept style that graces red carpets and formal events worldwide. This classic look involves wrapping strands of hair elegantly to one side, creating a polished appearance that photographs beautifully under any lighting.
Achieving this red carpet worthy style requires precision and the right products. Apply a smoothing serum to damp hair before blow-drying with a round brush to create volume at the roots. Use a flat iron to ensure your hair lies perfectly smooth, then sweep everything to one side and secure behind your ear with bobby pins.
Styling products help maintain this look’s impeccable finish throughout long events. Light-hold hairspray locks everything in place without creating stiffness. Shine spray adds the glossy finish that makes this style photograph so beautifully on formal occasions.
Side Part Hairstyles for Different Face Shapes
Choosing the perfect side part requires understanding how different styling approaches complement your unique facial structure. We’ll explore customized techniques that enhance your natural features while creating the most flattering side part looks.
Side Parts for Round Faces
Creating asymmetry becomes your secret weapon when working with round face shapes. Side parts add visual length by breaking up the circular symmetry that naturally occurs with rounder features. We recommend avoiding extreme side parts that create too much contrast, instead opting for subtle shifts from center that maintain balance.
Positioning your part slightly off center delivers the most flattering results. This technique softens facial roundness while adding sophisticated visual interest to your overall look. Combine your subtle side part with layered cuts or textured styling to enhance the lengthening effect and create additional dimension around your face.
Side Parts for Square Faces
Softening sharp angles becomes effortless with properly executed side part techniques. Square faces benefit significantly from side parts because they create gentler frames that reduce the angular appearance of strong jawlines. We’ve found that side parts work particularly well when combined with layered haircuts that add movement and texture.
Incorporating fringes alongside your side part amplifies the softening effect. This combination creates multiple layers of visual interest that draw attention away from sharp corners while maintaining sophisticated styling. Consider adding subtle waves or curls to further enhance the gentle framing effect around your facial structure.
Side Parts for Oval and Heart Shaped Faces
Oval faces showcase remarkable versatility when it comes to side part styling options. These naturally balanced face shapes can successfully pull off most hairstyles, making side parts an excellent choice for maintaining your face’s inherent symmetry. We recommend experimenting with various part depths to find your most flattering angle.
Heart shaped faces require more strategic side part placement to achieve optimal balance. While middle parts often work best for balancing wider foreheads with narrower chins, subtle side parts can be equally effective when executed properly. Focus on drawing attention to your upper facial features while maintaining proportion between your forehead and chin areas.
Combining side parts with layered cuts enhances the natural beauty of both face shapes. This approach adds texture and movement that complements your facial structure while creating sophisticated styling options for any occasion.
How to Create and Maintain Side Part Hairstyles
Creating and maintaining a perfect side part requires the right tools, technique, and products to achieve that polished, professional look. We’ll guide you through the essential elements needed to master this timeless hairstyle.
Essential Tools and Products
Quality barber clippers or scissors form the foundation of any well executed side part, with thinning shears essential for blending and adding detail to your cut. Trimmers become crucial for creating or sharpening hard part lines that define your style’s structure.
Fine tooth combs allow us to create precise parts and section hair effectively during styling. Styling products vary based on your desired finish and hair type, with dry paste or wax providing texture and matte finish for natural looking results.
Firm hold gel or pomade delivers shine and structure for more polished appearances, while hair spray adds extra hold throughout the day. Each product serves a exact purpose in achieving and maintaining your side part’s integrity.
Step-by-Step Styling Techniques
Start with clean, towel dried hair to ensure optimal product absorption and styling control. Define the part using a fine tooth comb to create either a straight or slightly curved side part from the center of your forehead toward the crown.
Apply a small amount of dry paste or pomade throughout your hair, working the product evenly for texture and control. Style the shorter side by combing it down or back, using gel or pomade to maintain a neat appearance.
Sweep the longer side across the top of your head, using fingers or a comb to create volume or slight waves as desired. Finish with a brush or comb to smooth any flyaway hairs, then add hair spray for long lasting hold.
Tips for Long Lasting Hold
Use the right product for your exact hair type, as thicker hair typically requires heavier pomade while fine hair performs better with lighter wax or paste formulations. Reapply small amounts of product later in the day only when necessary to refresh your style.
Avoid touching your hair frequently after styling, as this can disturb the product distribution and part placement. Schedule regular trims to maintain your side part haircut’s shape and ensure clean lines remain sharp and defined.
Balance between both sides of your head creates the controlled, polished finish that defines a well executed side part hairstyle.
Conclusion
Side parts remain one of the most enduring and adaptable hairstyles in modern grooming. We’ve seen how this timeless technique transcends trends while offering endless possibilities for personalization based on your unique features and lifestyle needs.
The beauty of side part hairstyles lies in their universal appeal and accessibility. Whether you’re heading to the boardroom or a casual weekend gathering you now have the knowledge to create polished looks that enhance your natural features and boost your confidence.
With the right tools techniques and understanding of your hair type you can master this classic style and make it uniquely yours. Remember that the perfect side part isn’t just about following trends—it’s about finding what works best for your face shape hair texture and personal style preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes side part hairstyles so popular right now?
Side part hairstyles are experiencing a major resurgence due to their timeless versatility and presence on social media and red carpets. They work beautifully with various hair types and face shapes, offering both classic elegance and modern appeal. Celebrities and influencers are embracing this trend because it’s sophisticated yet achievable without expensive salon treatments or complex styling tools.
Can side parts work with all hair lengths?
Yes, side parts are incredibly versatile and work with every hair length. For short hair, try a side part bob or pixie cut. Medium lengths look great with angled bobs or collarbone cuts. Long hair benefits from layered cuts or modern loose styles. Each length offers unique opportunities to showcase the classic appeal of a side part while maintaining contemporary style.
How do I choose the right side part for my face shape?
Face shape significantly influences your ideal side part style. Round faces benefit from asymmetrical parts that create visual length. Square faces should use side parts with layers to soften sharp angles. Oval faces can experiment with various part depths, while heart-shaped faces need strategic placement to balance features. Combining side parts with appropriate layered cuts enhances your natural beauty.
What’s the difference between classic and modern side part styles?
Classic side parts include traditional deep parts, subtle side sweeps, and vintage Hollywood glamour looks with defined lines and timeless elegance. Modern side parts blend these techniques with contemporary trends, featuring textured layers, asymmetrical bobs, or undercuts. Both maintain the sophisticated appeal of side parts while offering different levels of formality and edge.
How does hair texture affect side part styling?
Hair texture plays a crucial role in side part styling. Straight hair creates sleek, defined parts that exude sophistication with shine-enhancing products. Wavy hair adds natural depth and movement, enhanced with sea salt spray. Curly hair requires working with natural bounce using curl activators while maintaining volume. Each texture needs specific techniques and products for optimal results.
Are side parts appropriate for professional settings?
Absolutely! Side parts are excellent for professional environments, projecting confidence and competence. Options include polished corporate side parts with fade techniques, wavy side parts for natural texture, classic comb overs, textured variations, or sophisticated quiffs. These styles maintain workplace appropriateness while showcasing personal style and attention to grooming details.
What tools and products do I need for a perfect side part?
Essential tools include quality barber clippers, fine tooth combs for precise parting, and styling products tailored to your hair type. You’ll need pomade or gel for hold, heat protectant for styling tools, and potentially sea salt spray for texture. The key is choosing products that match your hair’s specific needs and desired finish level.
How do I maintain my side part hairstyle?
Maintaining a side part requires using appropriate products for your hair type, scheduling regular trims every 4-6 weeks, and following proper styling techniques. Apply product to damp hair, define your part clearly, and use the right amount of hold for your lifestyle. Consistent maintenance ensures your side part looks polished and professional daily.
Can side parts work for casual, everyday looks?
Yes! Casual side part styles are perfect for everyday wear, offering effortless sophistication. Try tousled side parts for balanced polish, beachy side parts with loose waves, or low-maintenance side sweeps for busy mornings. These styles provide maximum impact with minimal effort, ensuring you look put-together without extensive daily styling routines.
Are there formal side part options for special occasions?
Side parts are excellent for formal events, offering sophisticated elegance for weddings, galas, and special occasions. Consider elegant updos with side parts, glamorous vintage Hollywood curls, or polished red carpet styles. These formal variations can be enhanced with hair accessories and provide lasting hold throughout your special event while maintaining timeless sophistication.
