Contrary to Popular Belief, Side-Part Hairstyles Are Still Very Much "In"
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When browsing the internet for new hairstyle inspiration, it's easy to spot your favorite influencers and celebrities rocking a standard middle part. But every now and then, you might just see a style icon looking so good in a side part that it makes you do a double-take and rethink all of your beauty choices.
On #HairTok, the debate over the best hair part is never-ending. According to Gen-Z, side parts are passé, but any professional hairstylist and beauty industry veteran will tell you that it's an underrated classic that really stands out when done right.
"While the middle part has been having its moment, the side part never truly went out of fashion," celebrity hairstylist Andrew Fitzsimons tells PS. The middle part is often viewed as a "safe" option; it's straightforward, it fits any hairstyle, and it's difficult to get it wrong. But where's the fun in always playing it safe?
With a side part, you can style it in many different ways, with each look bringing a unique twist. If you're ready to lay your middle part to rest and try something different, read ahead for a comprehensive guide on side-part hairstyle inspiration and tips from celebrity pros.
How to Style a Side Part
Many people think they don't have the right face shape or hair texture to pull off a side part, but that's the beauty of this style: it really works for everyone. "Side parts are suitable for mostly all hair types and face shapes," Clark says. "It helps add dimension and balance to your overall look."
The best way to style a side part all depends on your mood and the occasion. "Side parts are versatile and can be styled in various ways," Dereq Clark, Wella Professionals brand ambassador and celebrity hairstylist, says. "You can wear them as slicked back for a formal look or tousled for a more casual vibe."
Clark advises you first determine which side your hair naturally falls to. Then, depending on how you want to wear your hair, you can let it air-dry or blow-dry it before styling as you normally would.
For side-part hairstyle inspiration for all hair types and lengths, keep scrolling.
Lob or Bob With a Side Part
What better way to liven up your textured bob and give it some personality than by switching the part to the side?
Side-Parted Curls
Punch up the glam factor of your curly hair with a deep side part.
Extra-Deep Side Part
For even more volume and drama, go for an extra deep side part paired with a bouncy blowout, waves, or curls.
Side-Part Braids
Braids are easy to manipulate because your hair is already parted. In this case, you can simply pull your hair to whichever side you prefer to transform your look.
Loose Waves With a Side Part
Loose waves are inevitably chic, but they feel especially so when paired with a side part.
Side-Part Pixie
Many decide to cut their hair short because it's easier to maintain in between salon appointments. It's simple to achieve a side part when wearing shorter inches because you have direct access to your scalp and can style accordingly.
Bombshell Blowout With a Side Part
A blowout is the perfect way to serve romantic vibes, but completing the style with a side part adds a sultry appeal.
Crescent Moon Side Part
The crescent moon side part adds a unique layer of sophistication to a double knot or regular low bun.
Y2K Side-Part Updo
The early '00s were the age of the side bang and side-parted updo. You could spot anyone from Hilary Duff to the Olsen Twins sporting this look with butterfly clips. It was a style that never escaped us.
Straight Hair With a Side Part
The attention is in the details when you opt for side-parted, silky-straight hair.
Afro Side Part
To add some variation to your afro, consider introducing a deep side part. This provides additional dimension and depth to your curls, enhancing their fullness.
Subtle Side Part
This muted side part adds contrast to your straight, curled, or wet-look hairstyle without being as harsh as a deep-set part.
Slicked-Back Side Part
Adding a side part to this classic look elevates your style to its maximum capacity while highlighting your facial structure.
Combover Side Part
If you're not experienced in parting your hair with a comb, consider trying a faux side part. This allows you to fake it until you make it. If you're getting your hair styled professionally, ask your hairdresser to guide your hair to adapt to where you want it. This way, you can replicate the style at home.
Side-Part Bangs
Channel the early aughts with side-parted bangs to add a fun twist to your bob or lob haircut.
Stixx Mathews is a New York City-based freelance beauty writer with 11 years of experience who is passionate about telling stories that merge beauty and pop culture. He enjoys sharing his expert insights about the latest trends and must-have products, with a particular focus on lipstick and fragrance.