As a millennial, I have a long history with the side part, from wearing a dramatic deep side part in eighth grade to a more modern version in my early ‘20s. If you’re as TikTok-obsessed as am, however, you likely already know there’s a major debate going on between Gen-Zs and Millennials about whether side parts or middle parts are better. Millennials are Team Side Part, while Gen-Zers claim that side parts (along with skinny jeans) are officially out.
Well, we’re here to disprove that claim once and for all. Keep scrolling for 15 side part ideas that prove the style is still on-trend in 2021.
How do you get a side part?
To create a side part, all you’ll need is a comb. You can even use your fingers if you want to create a softer-looking part. Start at the highest point of your eyebrow arch. Then, work the tailend of the comb backwards through your hair to create a side part.
Who does a side part work best for?
The truth is, when it comes to the side part vs. middle part debate, it’s all about finding the part that works best with your face shape. If you have a square, diamond, or heart shaped face, a side part can help soften your defined cheekbones and jawline.
The Best Side Part Hairstyles To Try Now
Good hair day by @thelipstickmafiaaa.
Side Part Bob
There are tons of ways to dress up a parted hairstyle, but sometimes a simple side part is all you need to rock an on-trend bob haircut.
Good hair day by @ashley_lynn_hair.
Bouncy Blowout With Side Part
There’s no hairstyle more classic than a bouncy blowout, and a side part can give the look extra bounce and volume at the roots. You can also use a volumizing hair product like L'Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Volumetry Anti-Gravity Effect Volume Spray to help lift hair at the roots for maximum body.
Good hair day by @timpascoe_hair.
Side Part Curly Hair
Curly girls often rely on middle parts to help their ringlets frame their face, but we love the way side parts look on curly hair. It’s one of the best ways to create all-over volume without losing any curl definition. We recommend a styling product like Mizani True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion to add definition and enhance your natural texture.
Good hair day by @stormibree.
Side Part Ponytail
Use the tailend of a comb to create a clean side part. Then, pull your strands into a high ponytail and secure it with a hair elastic. Complete your look with a few spritzes of hairspray like Pureology Style + Protect Lock It Down Hairspray.
Good hair day by @heavymetalhair_.
Side Part With Long Hair
A side part is an easy way to make super long hair feel more grown up. A side part on long hair will force your strands to cascade across half of your face, creating a sultry, mysterious hairstyle.
Good hair day by @pekelariley.
Bantu Knot Side Part
Now that you’ve mastered a regular side part, it’s time to step your game up a bit. After creating a side part, gather a 2-inch section of hair from the smaller side of the part and twist it to form a bantu knot. Secure your bantu knot with a hair elastic or a few bobby pins, and you’ll have a hairstyle that’s bound to turn heads.
Good hair day by @jesstheebesttcolor.
Blunt Lob With Side Part
A blunt lob with a side part is the ultimate hairstyle for any woman with fine hair. The uniform length will help your strands appear thicker while the side part will create much-needed volume at your roots.
Good hair day by @deeshdhindsahair.
Beach Waves With Side Part
If you’re looking for a side part hairstyle that’s truly effortless, opt for beach waves. Apply a few spritzes of texturizing spray like Matrix Miss Mess Dry Texturizing Spray to give your look light hold, volume, and texture.
Good hair day by @indiaalexandrial.
Side Part With Flipped Out Ends
When it comes to nostalgic hairstyle inspiration, we can't get enough of flipped out ends. This on-trend, ‘70s-inspired style is easy to create (and pairs perfectly with a side part). Click here to find out exactly how to recreate the look.
Good hair day by @nakawunde.
Side Part Twist Out
If you’re wishing your twist out had more volume, try a side part! For this look, be sure to create your side part before you twist your hair. When you unravel your twists in the morning, you’ll have a bouncy, voluminous twist out—no teasing necessary!
Good hair day by @timursta.
Side Part With Side Swept Bangs
Give yourself a side part and ask your stylist for side-swept bangs for a sleek and practical hairstyle.
Good hair day by @bottleblonde76.
Side Part Pixie
Subtle changes can make all the difference when you’re looking for ways to upgrade a short haircut. If you have a pixie cut with a bit of length, try swooping your hair to the side to create a look with instant volume and edge.
Good hair day by @bluejayhair.
Pin-Straight Side Part
Part your hair to the side and use a flat iron to create a smooth, frizz-free style that’s sleek and sophisticated. Be sure to apply a few spritzes of heat protectant, like Redken Iron Shape 11 Thermal Holding Spray, throughout your strands before you begin styling.
Embellished Side Part
Side part hairstyles are some of the best ways to show off your favorite hair accessories. Load up one side of your hair with your favorite hair clips and pins to add some red carpet-worthy sparkle to your style.
Good hair day by @3littlebirdssalon.
Glittery Side Part
If hair accessories aren’t enough sparkle for you, opt for glitter! Simply mix some glitter with your favorite hair gel (we love Biolage Styling Gelée All Purpose Styling Gel) and apply it to the smaller side of the part.
Interested in trying a new look? Use our salon locator to book an appointment at a salon near you.
Serie Expert Volumetry Anti-Gravity Effect Volume Spray
A volumizing spray with Intra-Cylane™ to help lift hair at the root
Miss Mess Dry Texturizing Spray
A multi-benefit dry finishing spray with a light hold that adds volume and texture.
True Textures Curl Enhancing Lotion
A hair lotion for curls that adds definition and enhances texture.
Style + Protect Lock It Down Hairspray
A fast-drying, strong-hold hairspray for color-treated hair that provides shine and maximum control.
Thermal Spray 11 Low Hold
A lightweight, thermal heat protection hairspray that adds shine and reduces frizz.
Styling Gelée All Purpose Styling Gel
An all-purpose styling gel that adds volume and smoothes frizz.
