The Side Part haircut

The Side Part Haircut / Hairstyle: A Timeless Statement of Style

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Last updated on July 6th, 2025 at 04:23 pm

The side part haircut and style reflect refinement, control, and understated strength. It has defined generations of men of all ages, and continues to speak volumes in a world where subtle style makes the strongest impression.

The side part hairstyle has lasted through changing trends for a reason. It speaks to something quiet but strong in a man’s style.

You’ve likely seen it on leaders, actors, and even old photos of your grandfather.

Clean or textured. Sharp or loose. The side part haircut adapts without trying too hard.

It fits boardrooms, date nights, weddings, and daily life. You may already wear a version of it without knowing the small details that bring it to life.

In this guide, you’ll see why barbers keep coming back to it and how you can make it yours.

From product choices to face shapes, modern fades to vintage charm, this is where function meets presence.

The side part tells a story, and by the time you finish reading, you’ll know how to make it tell yours.

See a dedicated post on men’s haircuts and style.

Main Points

  • The side part hairstyle adapts to all hair types and occasions, offering both sharp and relaxed styles.
  • Originating in the Victorian era, the side part evolved through the 1920s to the 1950s, reflecting discipline and charm.
  • It suits oval, square, and round faces, enhancing balance, softening edges, or adding length as needed.
  • From pomade for sleek looks to sea salt spray for texture, products shape the side part effortlessly

Table of Contents

Recommended: Introduction To Men’s Grooming

What is the Side Part Hair Style?

A side part hairstyle is a timeless grooming technique where the hair is parted to one side using a comb, creating a clear division that separates the hair into two distinct sections. This style is celebrated for its adaptability across hair types, straight, wavy, or curly, and suits both short and longer lengths.

Its versatility makes it ideal for everything from formal events to everyday casual looks.

Whether styled sharply with gel for a professional appearance or tousled for a relaxed vibe, the side part adds structure while framing the face attractively.

With roots in both classic and modern fashion, the side part remains a dependable choice for refined, individualized style.

A man wearing the side part hairstyle

The History of the Side Part

The side part has stayed relevant for over a century. From old-school charm to modern trends, this classic style keeps finding its place in everyday grooming and pop culture.

Victorian Roots: Where the Side Part Began

You can trace the side part back to the Victorian era. During this time, well-groomed hair was a mark of discipline and good breeding.

The side part helped create a neat, clean look that reflected social order and tradition. People kept their hair tidy with oils and combs, favoring a smooth finish.

Back then, appearances mattered deeply, and this style quietly told others that you paid attention to details.

Roaring Twenties: Breaking Traditions with Style

By the 1920s, the side part made its way into mainstream fashion. As people broke away from rigid Victorian norms, this style gave room for a modern look without losing polish.

You’d see men in tailored suits and women with sleek bobs, all sporting clean side parts.

It became a favorite among jazz musicians, film stars, and everyday folks chasing new beginnings and personal flair.

Wartime Grooming: Discipline Meets Practicality

In the 1930s and 1940s, World War II shaped how people dressed and groomed themselves.

Clean, simple hairstyles matched the serious mood of the times. The side part made sense: easy to maintain, sharp-looking, and suited for military codes and civilian life alike.

Grooming products like pomade became more common, helping men keep their part defined and slick throughout long days.

The Post-War Boom: A Shift Toward Charm

After the war, everything changed again. The 1950s brought back a sense of leisure and self-expression.

Film stars like James Dean and Cary Grant brought swagger to the side part.

You didn’t need a uniform to wear anymore. Young men styled their hair with volume, adding edge to this old-school look.

The side part now hinted at quiet confidence and cool rebellion.

Today’s Side Part: From Retro to Modern

Now, the side part is a choice you make, not a rule to follow. It works with straight, wavy, or curly hair and fits into streetwear, office wear, or formal looks.

It’s one of those few styles that keeps coming back, not because it’s trendy, but because it works.

You can wear it sharp with gel or loose with texture. Either way, it’s all about how you make it yours.

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Classic vs Modern Side Part

Classic side part vs modern side parts

The side part has changed with time, but it hasn’t lost its charm. You can go sharp and clean or loose and textured, depending on the vibe you want.

Classic Side Part: Clean Lines with Polished Control

If you like structure, the classic side part gives you that. You’ll need a comb, some pomade or gel, and a little patience.

This style keeps every strand in place, creating a sharp part that holds through the day.

It works best with formal wear, but you can also use it to bring order to casual outfits. Think slick, shiny, and neat, just like men’s grooming from the 1950s.

Modern Side Part: Textured Finish with a Casual Feel

The modern take is more relaxed. You don’t need to comb it flat or make it perfect.

Instead, you add texture with cream or spray and let the hair move naturally.

It works well with fades or undercuts, giving it a more casual edge. This version fits right into today’s hairstyles.

It’s practical, stylish, and doesn’t feel like you’re trying too hard. Great for daily wear without losing shape.

Which Side Part Fits You Best

Ask yourself what you need your hair to do. If you want it tight and business-ready, the classic side part gets the job done.

If you want it to look lived-in without being messy, go modern. Both styles start with a simple part, but your choice of product, cut, and finish makes the difference.

You don’t need to follow a trend. Pick what fits your face, your routine, and your comfort.

Related: Haircuts Guide for Men

Types of Side Part Haircuts

Types of side part hairstyle

You can shape the side part to match your look, lifestyle, or mood. From clean fades to bold volume, each version brings something different to the table.

Side Part with Taper Fade: Clean with a Sharp Finish

The side part with taper fade gives you a clean, balanced look that fits almost anywhere, work, dinner, or a casual day out.

The top stays longer while the sides taper down gradually, creating a soft fade that blends into the skin.

This transition draws attention to your cheekbones and jawline. It’s easy to keep in shape with regular trims.

Use a comb to define the part or leave it loose with light product for a natural feel.

You get control without stiffness, style without trying too hard, and structure that keeps your face looking sharp. See a dedicated post for a side part with taper fade.

Side Part Pompadour: Volume That Stands Out

The side part pompadour takes things up a notch with added height and drama.

The top is swept up and back, then angled to one side, giving your hair volume and shape.

This style works best with medium or thick hair that holds form. Blow drying adds lift while pomade or mousse keeps everything in place.

You don’t need to go full rockabilly unless you want to. A toned-down pompadour still makes a strong impact.

It’s sharp, stylish, and gives your side part a bold, modern twist that looks great in photos or under office lights.

Military Side Part: Sharp, Simple, and Ready to Go

If you want low-maintenance grooming without losing style, the military side part keeps things easy.

The hair is cut short on the sides and back, sometimes with a skin fade, and the top is kept just long enough to part. It’s a clean-cut style that looks sharp without effort.

This cut works especially well if you’re active or have a tight schedule; it holds up to heat, sweat, and wind.

You don’t need much product, just a quick comb through, and you’re set. It’s neat, practical, and delivers a strong first impression wherever you go.

Messy Side Part: Casual with Texture

The messy side part gives you a break from structured looks. You still part the hair, but instead of slicking it down, you let it move naturally.

A matte cream or texture spray works best, no shiny finish, just grip and hold.

Use your hands to style it, not a comb. This version pairs well with casual outfits, streetwear, or laid-back work settings.

It’s a good choice when you want to look like you didn’t try too hard but still care.

The key is letting the style breathe while keeping some shape through the part.

Side Part with Undercut: Bold Contrast and Edge

A wavy side part hairstyle for middle age men

The side part with an undercut turns heads with its bold contrast between long and short.

The top stays full while the sides are clipped close, sometimes even buzzed.

This creates a sharp break between sections, making the part stand out clearly. You can go slick and sharp or loose and textured, depending on the product you use.

This cut works well if you want something modern and expressive. It adds structure, drama, and personality.

If you’re into fashion-forward looks or want something with edge, this side part style gives you room to stand out.

Side Part by Hair Type

Classic side part hairstyle

The side part works across all hair types, but getting it right depends on how you work with your natural texture. Each hair type responds differently, and a few small tweaks go a long way.

Straight Hair: Clean Lines with Little Effort

If you have straight hair, getting a defined side part is quick and simple. Use a fine-tooth comb to draw a sharp line and set the shape.

Since straight hair naturally falls flat, a lightweight gel or styling cream helps keep everything in place without adding stiffness.

You can keep it polished or leave it slightly tousled for a more relaxed finish. Either way, straight hair gives you control with minimal fuss.

Wavy Hair: Keep the Texture, Add Shape

Wavy hair brings natural movement that pairs well with a side part. To keep the waves defined without looking messy, use sea salt spray or a light curl cream.

This gives you texture and hold without flattening your waves. You don’t need a perfect line, just a subtle shift in direction.

Wavy hair likes to move, and a side part gives it enough structure while keeping that soft, flowing shape.

Curly Hair: Set the Part While It’s Wet

Curly hair benefits most when you part it while still damp. Use your fingers or a wide-tooth comb to place the part before the curls set.

A curl-defining mousse or cream helps shape the curls and keep frizz down. If your curls are tight, the part may not be super visible, and that’s fine.

What matters is how the curls fall around your face. A good part can guide the shape without fighting the texture.

Thick Hair: Control the Volume

Thick hair gives you plenty to work with, but it can get bulky fast. A side part helps shape it, but you’ll need tools to manage the volume.

Use a smoothing serum to cut down on frizz, or a flat iron if you want a sleeker look.

Comb the part into place and press it with the product to lock it in. The side part gives your hair direction, so it doesn’t feel like it’s doing its own thing.

Thin Hair: Add Lift and Volume

With thin hair, a side part can create the look of more volume. Start by applying a volumizing mousse or spray, focusing on the roots. Blow dry in the direction of the part for extra lift.

You might also try placing the part slightly off-center to give your hair more body.

This trick breaks up flatness and makes your style look fuller and more intentional without overloading on product.

Who Should Wear a Side Part?

Side part for older gentlemen

The side part works with different face shapes, hair textures, and personal styles. It’s easy to shape and even easier to make your own with the right tweaks.

Oval Face Shape: Keep Things Balanced

If you have an oval face, you’ve got it easy. A side part helps frame your features without pulling attention away.

It keeps your hairstyle looking balanced from every angle. You don’t have to do much, just comb your hair over and let the part define your cheekbones.

It works with straight, wavy, or curly hair, so you have plenty of room to play with texture.

Square Face Shape: Soften the Edges

A strong jawline can be sharp and bold. A side part gives it some softness. It breaks up those angular lines and keeps your style looking less rigid.

Go for a side part with some volume on top or even a messy finish if you want to tone it down a little.

This way, you get structure without making everything look too boxed in.

Round Face Shape: Add Some Length

Round faces sometimes need a little stretch. A deep side part creates height and draws the eye upward.

This trick adds length and makes your face appear more oval. Let your hair fall a bit over the forehead or add layers for a better shape.

It’s a small change, but it shifts the whole look in your favor without trying too hard.

Thinning Hair: Build Volume Where You Need It

If your hair is starting to thin, a side part can help. By brushing the hair to one side, you add lift and make things look fuller.

It gives you control over where the volume sits and helps cover sparse spots.

Use light styling products that won’t weigh your hair down, like texturizing spray or a matte paste.

Any Hair Type: Shape It Your Way

You don’t need a certain texture to pull off a side part. Straight hair lies smooth, waves add movement, and curls bring bounce.

You can wear it flat or loose, depending on the mood or occasion. The side part isn’t locked into one look. You make it what it is, clean, cool, or something in between.

How to Find Your Natural Part

How to find the natural part

Finding your natural hair part helps your side part look better and feel easier to style. You don’t need any fancy tools, just your hands, damp hair, and a little attention.

Start with Damp Hair and Let It Set

Begin by washing your hair, then gently towel dry until it’s damp but not dripping.

Let it air dry for a few minutes without combing it in any direction. This allows your natural hair pattern to show.

Watch how your hair separates as it starts to dry. Most of the time, it will begin to split in one direction without you forcing it.

That natural break is where your part usually sits.

Use Your Fingers to Test the Flow

Once your hair has slightly dried, use your fingers or a fine-tooth comb to part it down the middle.

If the hair naturally shifts back to one side or refuses to stay in place, that side is likely your natural part.

Your hair’s growth pattern influences this. Working against it makes styling harder and can stress the roots. Letting your hair go where it wants makes everything smoother.

Go with the Flow for Better Results

Now that you’ve found your natural part, work with it. Styling in the same direction your hair wants to fall gives you a neater finish with less effort.

It also helps your hair stay in place longer throughout the day. Try adjusting the width of the part. A deep part can add drama, while a subtle one feels more casual. See what fits your face shape and mood best.

Keep It Comfortable and Easy

There’s no need to force your hair into a part that doesn’t sit right. If it fights back every morning, that’s a sign you’re going against its natural flow.

Choosing a side part that aligns with your hair pattern saves you time, reduces breakage, and gives you a style that looks and feels natural. You’ll spend less time adjusting and more time enjoying how good it looks.

How to Style a Side Part

How to style side part hairstyle

Styling a side part gives you a clean, controlled look that works for daily wear or special events. You just need the right steps, a good product, and a little patience.

Start with Damp Hair for Better Control

After a shower, towel-dry your hair gently until it’s just damp. Avoid rubbing too hard, which can cause breakage or frizz.

Damp hair is easier to manage and shape, making it the perfect base for styling.

This is when your hair is most responsive, so it’s the best time to work it into the direction you want it to stay. Don’t rush this step, it makes the rest easier.

Choose the Right Product for Your Hair Type

Pick a product that matches your hair texture and the finish you want. Mousse works well for volume if your hair feels flat.

If you want hold and shine, go for pomade or wax. Use a small amount, rub it between your hands, and apply it evenly from root to tip.

Focus on the roots and mid-lengths where the part needs structure. This helps set the foundation for the style you’re building.

Use a Comb to Set the Part

Now it’s time to shape the side part. Use a fine-tooth comb and start from the front hairline, pulling back in a straight line to your crown.

Choose the side that feels more natural or gives your face the best shape.

Keep the part clean for a sharp look, or make it more casual with your fingers.

Once the part is set, comb the rest of your hair into place. A defined line creates a neat base to build your style around.

Style the Top Based on the Look You Want

With the part in place, focus on the top section. Comb one side across or back, depending on how you want it to sit.

You can keep it flat for a sleek look or use a blow dryer to add height and movement.

Direct the airflow along the part while using your fingers or a brush to guide the shape.

Keep the dryer on low heat to avoid damage and help lock the form in place.

Lock It In with Light Hold

Once everything’s in place, finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep your style from shifting.

Don’t overdo it, just enough to hold flyaways and help the part stay sharp through the day.

If needed, use your fingers to adjust any small sections. The goal is a style that feels natural but still looks put together.

A side part done right should feel easy and look clean without needing constant touch-ups.

Side Part Haircut with Beard Styles

Pairing a side part with the right beard style can bring out your features and sharpen your overall appearance.

The goal is to find a balance that feels natural and looks clean.

Side Part with Stubble: Clean Meets Rugged

If you like a look that feels laid-back but still sharp, try pairing your side part with stubble.

The soft, short beard brings in texture without taking over your face. It works well because it adds depth while keeping the focus on your haircut.

This combo fits almost any setting, from a morning meeting to a night out.

Keep the lines trimmed and the neckline tidy to make the look feel intentional, not lazy.

Side Part with Full Beard: Bold Contrast with Shape

A full beard gives your side part more presence. It draws the eye downward, frames your jaw, and adds structure to your face.

The clean lines of the side part balance the thickness of the beard, creating a sharp contrast.

This look works especially well if your beard is well-shaped and trimmed. It shows you care about details without trying too hard. Use beard oil to keep the texture smooth and healthy.

Side Part with Goatee: Sharp Focus on the Chin

The goatee shifts attention to your chin and mouth, making it a solid match for a neat side part.

It helps define your lower face and can break up rounder facial features. If your side part is slick or structured, the goatee keeps things tight and clean below.

This pairing works well if you want facial hair without the weight of a full beard.

Regular trimming around the edges keeps the goatee crisp and aligned with your haircut.

Side Part with Beard Fade: Smooth Transition Between Hair and Beard

If you like a more connected look, a beard fade blends the haircut with your facial hair.

It creates a gradual shift from your sideburns into your beard, which keeps the style seamless.

This works best with a low or mid fade on the haircut itself. It looks polished without being stiff.

A beard fade also helps slim the face by guiding the eye along its contours.

Keep both the haircut and beard trimmed often to keep the fade from losing its shape.

Side Part with Short Boxed Beard: Balanced and Easy to Maintain

A short boxed beard gives you the best of both worlds—it adds weight around the jaw without taking over your face.

The defined edges and even length pair well with the straight lines of a side part.

It’s a style that reads clean and modern without too much upkeep.

Use a beard trimmer with a guard to keep it at the same length, and trim the cheeks and neckline for a tidy finish.

This combo works well for daily wear and fits into both formal and relaxed settings.

Barber Guide: What to Tell Your Barber

To get the side part haircut you want, be clear with your barber. Start by sharing how long you want the top, most side parts to work well with 2 to 4 inches.

Mention how you usually style your hair so the cut fits your routine. If you want a fade, say where it should start, low, mid, or high, as each one gives a different look.

Bring a few reference photos to show the style you’re aiming for. This helps avoid miscommunication.

Finally, talk about the products you plan to use, like pomade, matte cream, or spray.

This lets your barber choose techniques that match your finish.

Clear guidance and visuals go a long way in getting the haircut you want.

Best Products for Styling a Side Part

Getting your side part to sit right comes down to the product you use. The right choice can shape your style, add texture, or keep your look in place all day.

Pomade: For Sleek and Controlled Styles

If you like your hair to stay smooth and in place, pomade is a solid pick.

It works especially well for straight or slightly wavy hair. A small amount goes a long way—just warm it in your hands and run it through damp or dry hair.

Water-based pomades are easier to wash out and don’t feel heavy on your scalp.

This product helps define your part and gives your hairstyle a glossy, finished touch without stiffness.

Sea Salt Spray: For Natural Texture and Light Hold

When you want a laid-back style with movement, reach for sea salt spray. It adds grit and body, making your hair look fuller without weighing it down.

It’s especially helpful if your hair is wavy or curly. Spray it onto damp hair, then scrunch with your hands for a relaxed, beachy texture.

It works well when you want a softer side part that still looks intentional. Avoid over-spraying to keep your hair from drying out.

Mousse: For Volume Without the Weight

Mousse is great if you want more lift without making your hair stiff. It spreads easily, helps build volume at the roots, and holds your part in place.

This is a go-to if your hair is fine or needs more body.

Apply a small amount to towel-dried hair, then blow-dry while shaping your part.

Look for formulas without alcohol to keep your hair from becoming dry or crunchy after styling.

Gel: For Strong Hold and Lasting Shape

Gel keeps your side part sharp all day, especially in humidity or wind. It’s a good choice if you have thick or stubborn hair that doesn’t stay in place on its own.

Apply it to damp or dry hair, using a comb to set your part and shape the rest of your hair.

If you want a clean, sculpted look, this is your tool. Stick with alcohol-free gels to avoid flakes or scalp irritation.

Creams and Pastes: For Soft Control and a Matte Finish

If you’re going for a more natural finish without shine, styling cream or paste can help.

These products are easy to work with and give your hair just enough hold to stay in place without looking styled.

They’re great for short to medium hair lengths and work well with both straight and wavy textures.

Use a small amount on dry or damp hair to keep the part defined while keeping the style relaxed.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Side Part Hairstyle

How do I maintain a side part haircut?

Keep your side part sharp by trimming it every four to six weeks. Wash and condition your hair regularly, and use light styling products to manage shape and volume without making it feel heavy or greasy.

What styling techniques work best for side part haircuts?

Apply product to damp hair and use a comb for a clean look or your fingers for a textured feel. Use heat tools if needed, and choose matte or shiny finishes based on your style.

Is a side part haircut suitable for all face shapes?

Yes, the side part suits most face shapes. It can add length to round faces, soften square jawlines, and frame oval faces naturally. Adjust the part depth to match your features.

Is the side part coming back?

The side part has never truly left. It’s making a strong return thanks to its clean, timeless appeal. Modern barbers and stylists now pair it with fades and texture for a fresh update.

The side part gained popularity in the early 1900s and remained a go-to style through the 1920s to the 1950s. Style icons like Cary Grant and James Dean helped cement its place in classic grooming.

Is the side part out of style?

Not at all. While middle parts trend now and then, the side part remains a staple in men’s grooming. It adapts to new trends with fades, volume, and texture, keeping it relevant.

How to do the side part hairstyle?

Start with damp hair and find your natural part using a comb. Apply your styling product of choice and guide the hair into place. Use a blow dryer for hold and shape if needed.

Conclusion

The side part hairstyle remains a cornerstone of men’s grooming, blending timeless elegance with modern adaptability.

Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to suit any face shape, hair type, or occasion, from boardrooms to casual outings.

Whether you opt for a classic, polished look or a textured, modern twist, the side part offers a refined yet approachable style.

With minimal effort and the right products, it delivers a sharp, confident appearance that’s uniquely yours.

As trends shift, the side part’s versatility ensures it never fades, making it a reliable choice for those who value understated strength and personal flair.

References:

  1. https://www.themodestman.com/side-part-haircuts/
  2. https://noah.com.au/blogs/the-grooming-guide/the-side-part-mens-haircut?srsltid=AfmBOopkHZlrWyMObcawVw9WvJM4GvlhjM7qABSNrctSOzWILsylpIuA
  3. https://regalgentleman.com/blogs/blog/side-part-haircut-mens-hairstyles-with-side-partings
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