The Side Part Haircut: Old School Charm Meets a Modern Edge

The Fashionisto

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Updated October 23, 2024

side part haircuts menPin
Explore popular side part haircuts for men.

The side part haircut, characterized by a clean, defined line that separates the hair into two sections, is one of the most versatile and enduring hairstyles. Its classic appeal and adaptability to various hair types and face shapes have secured its status in every day and refined environments.

Side Part Haircuts for Men

Cary Grant Side Part Hairstyle 1941Pin
Hollywood legend Cary Grant was famous for sporting the side part associated with Tinseltown. Photo: Grant,_Cary_(Suspicion)_01.jpg: RKO publicity photographer.derivative work: Crisco 1492, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The side part’s origins trace back to early Hollywood, where icons like Cary Grant and Clark Gable popularized its polished look, cementing it as a staple in men’s grooming. This style has evolved throughout the decades, molding itself to current trends while maintaining a classic essence.

Classic Side Part

classic side part hairstyle menPin
A classic side part is a timeless staple, maintaining a polished look across settings. Photo: Shutterstock

The classic side part features a clean, defined part with hair combed neatly to the side. For those with fine or straight hair, a lightweight pomade can add structure and shine without weighing it down.

If you have thicker or curly hair, a medium-hold gel can help control the volume while maintaining the part’s sharp definition.

Ivy League

Ivy League hairstyle side partPin
The Ivy League side part blends collegiate charm with a certain timelessness. Photo: Shutterstock

The Ivy League side part features a shorter cut on the sides, with slightly longer hair on top. Reminiscent of the iconic 1950s side part, this style works best for those with straight or wavy hair. A light styling cream can enhance the natural texture while keeping it tidy.

For thicker hair, a lightweight pomade helps to maintain shape without adding excess weight. This cut is particularly flattering for oval and rectangular face shapes.

Medium-Length Wavy Hair

medium length wavy side part hairstylePin
The medium-length wavy side part highlights natural movement while keeping things refined. Photo: Alex Scott / Pexels

The medium-length wavy side part allows waves to flow freely but uses the side part to add direction, balancing between laid-back and put-together. A sea salt spray can enhance the texture, giving the style a controlled volume while keeping it light and airy.

Side-swept Fringe

side-swept fringe side part hairstylePin
A side-swept fringe side part combines movement with a structured, face-framing effect. Photo: Shutterstock

The side-swept fringe side part features a fringe sweeping across the forehead, using the side part as an anchor for added direction. It’s particularly effective for diamond-shaped faces, as it helps soften angular features while providing a relaxed, casual finish.

Side Part Fade

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The side part fade merges clean lines with a sharp, contemporary finish. Photo: Shutterstock

The side part fade hairstyle gradually fades the hair from the temples down, with the side part separating the longer top section for added contrast. For those with thin hair, a volumizing mousse or light pomade can add lift and fullness to the top section, creating the illusion of thicker hair while keeping the style sharp and defined.

A matte styling cream can benefit those with thicker hair. It provides texture and hold while maintaining a modern aesthetic.

Comb Over

Comb Over Side PartPin
The comb over side part offers a polished, sophisticated look. Photo: Shutterstock

With hair combed neatly to one side, the comb over side part emphasizes a sleek structure. For straight hair, a light-hold gel ensures the style stays in place without stiffness, making it a practical choice for achieving a classic look.

Asymmetrical Fringe

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The asymmetrical fringe side part offers a bold, modern twist to classic styling. Photo: Shutterstock

The asymmetrical fringe side part features an uneven fringe controlled with a side part, creating dynamic movement and shape. It suits those with heart-shaped faces, drawing attention away from the jawline and adding balance around the forehead.

Medium-Length Straight Cut

medium-length straight cut side part hairstylePin
A medium-length straight cut side part creates a sleek and balanced look. Photo: Shutterstock

With hair falling naturally and a precise side part guiding its direction, the medium-length straight cut side part offers a refined and versatile option. A smoothing serum can help maintain a sleek appearance, especially for those with naturally straight hair seeking a polished finish.

Pompadour

pompadour side part hairstylePin
The pompadour side part mixes retro flair with contemporary structure. Photo: iStock

Characterized by volume at the front, the side part defines and lifts the pompadour for a bold, statement look. A strong-hold pomade is essential for maintaining the height and structure of the pompadour side part, especially for those with thick hair that can carry the volume.

Slick Back

slick back side part hairstylePin
A slick back side part embodies sleek sophistication and classic appeal. Photo: iStock

The slick back side part involves pulling the hair back to the side, creating a smooth, glossy appearance. A high-shine gel helps achieve this effect, making it particularly effective for fine to medium hair types that benefit from added control and sheen.

Textured Quiff

textured quiff side part hairstylePin
The textured quiff side part delivers a blend of volume and casual style. Photo: iStock

The textured quiff side part lifts the hair at the front and uses a side part to balance the quiff’s height and texture. A volumizing spray enhances the lift, making it ideal for those with thicker hair types looking to add structure and dimension.

Hard Side Part

hard side part hairstylePin
The hard side part adds a bold definition and a crisp, clean edge. Photo: Shutterstock

Defined by a razor-sharp line, the hard side part emphasizes contrast and creates a striking visual effect. It works best for those with thick hair, as the texture helps maintain the boldness of the part.

Long Hair

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The long hair side part offers refined control while maintaining a relaxed flow. Photo: Shutterstock

The long hair side part ensures that long hair stays intentional by creating a part that guides the hair’s natural length. This look is particularly flattering for those with oval faces, as it adds structure while allowing the hair’s natural movement to complement facial features.

Curly Hair

curly hair side partPin
The curly hair side part highlights natural curls while providing subtle direction. Photo: Shutterstock

Using the side part to shape the curls, the curly hair side part maintains volume while ensuring structure. It’s ideal for medium to thick curl patterns, enhancing the natural texture without overwhelming the overall look.

Side Swept

side swept side part men hairstylePin
The side swept side part is a simple yet effective style that balances flow with structure. Photo: Shutterstock

Sweeping the hair to one side, the side-swept side part uses the side part to anchor the shape, creating a relaxed yet intentional appearance. It’s particularly suitable for wavy hair, as the natural texture enhances the movement and adds a soft, effortless touch.

Why Choose a Side Part?

Side parts are versatile, elevating hairstyles for casual and formal occasions.Pin
Side parts are versatile, elevating hairstyles for casual and formal occasions. Photo: Shutterstock

The side part haircut offers a range of advantages. It naturally adds volume, enhances depth, and frames the face. It is particularly suited for medium to long hair but equally effective on shorter styles.

Its versatility is key; whether styled to exude professionalism in the office or crafted for a laid-back look on casual outings, the side part adapts effortlessly. Its adaptability also allows for a personalized fit, accommodating various face shapes and hair textures.

Finding the Best Side Part for Your Face Shape

Deep side parts balance round and oblong faces, creating visual length. Pin
Deep side parts balance round and oblong faces, creating visual length. Photo: Devon Divine / Unsplash

Face shape is crucial in determining how a side part complements an individual’s features. For those with round or oblong faces, opting for a deeper side part can create the illusion of length, balancing the face’s proportions.

Subtle parts complement square-shaped faces, offering the face softness. Pin
Subtle parts complement square-shaped faces, offering the face softness. Photo: Shutterstock

On the other hand, square-shaped faces might benefit from a softer, more subtle part to soften sharp angles and create a balanced look.

Waves near the side part often soften long face shapes. Pin
Waves near the side part often soften long face shapes. Photo: Shutterstock

For longer face shapes, a side part with subtle waves around the temples can visually reduce the length, adding a flattering contour. Consulting a stylist for expert advice can further refine the style, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your features.

A side part’s angle can bring balance to angular features.Pin
A side part’s angle can bring balance to angular features. Photo: Shutterstock

The angle of the part is equally influential. A diagonal part can soften angular characteristics, while a straight line offers a sophisticated edge. Experimenting with angles and placements opens up possibilities to enhance your overall appearance.

The Enduring Appeal of the Side Part Haircut

The fade adds a modern update to the side part hairstyle.Pin
The fade adds a modern update to the side part hairstyle. Photo: Deposit Photos

The side part haircut remains quintessential, offering a perfect balance of classic appeal and modern adaptability. Its versatility allows it to complement a variety of hair textures, face shapes, and personal aesthetics, ensuring its relevance across decades.

From vintage Hollywood icons to today’s trendsetters, the side part continues to evolve, making it an enduring choice for those seeking a refined, polished look that stands the test of time.


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