15 Chic Side Part Hairstyles That’ll Transform Your Look

Let’s be real – you’ve probably been parting your hair the same way since middle school, right? I get it. We find something that works and stick with it like glue. But here’s the thing: switching up your part can literally transform your entire face shape and give you that fresh, new look you’ve been craving without stepping foot in a salon. Click here to level up your fashion game → What suits on you!

I’ve been experimenting with different side parts for years (some more successful than others, trust me), and I’m convinced this simple change is the most underrated beauty hack out there. Ready to shake things up? Let’s explore 15 side part hairstyles that’ll have you looking like you just stepped off a red carpet.

The Magic Behind the Side Part

Ever wondered why celebrities always look so effortlessly chic? Spoiler alert: it’s often all about the part. A well-placed side part can create asymmetry that flatters your face shape, add volume where you need it, and even make you look younger.

The secret lies in understanding your face shape and working with your natural hair growth patterns. Some of us have cowlicks that make certain parts impossible (been there!), while others can literally part their hair anywhere and look amazing. Lucky them, right? 🙂

Finding Your Perfect Side Part

Before we jump into the styles, you need to find your ideal part placement. Here’s my foolproof method:

• Start with damp hair – it’s more moldable and cooperative
• Use a rattail comb to create a clean, precise line
• Experiment with different angles – from subtle to dramatic
• Consider your face shape – round faces benefit from deeper side parts, while square faces look great with softer, less dramatic parts

1. The Classic Hollywood Side Part

This is my go-to when I want to feel like a 1940s movie star. Deep side parts with finger waves never go out of style, and honestly, they work on virtually every hair length.

The key is creating that dramatic swoop that covers about one-third of your forehead. Use a small barrel curling iron to create loose waves, then brush them out gently for that vintage glamour. Pro tip: a little texturing spray will give you that perfect windswept finish.

2. The Modern Shag Side Part

Shags are having a major moment, and pairing them with a textured side part creates this effortlessly cool vibe that I’m obsessed with. Think Alexa Chung meets rock chick.

This style works particularly well if you have naturally wavy or slightly curly hair. The side part helps showcase all those gorgeous layers while keeping the look from appearing too messy. FYI, this is perfect for those “I woke up like this” days when you actually didn’t.

3. The Sleek Bob Side Part

Sharp, clean lines with a dramatic side part – this combination is pure sophistication. I love how this style immediately makes you look more polished and put-together.

The trick is getting that part laser-straight and keeping the hair sleek with a flat iron. A good heat protectant is non-negotiable here. This look screams “I have my life together” even when you definitely don’t.

Styling Tips for Short Hair Side Parts

Working with shorter lengths? Here are my tried-and-true techniques:

• Use a small amount of pomade for hold without heaviness
• Blow-dry with a paddle brush to create smoothness
• Set the part with hairspray while hair is still slightly damp

4. The Romantic Cascade Side Part

This is what I call the “date night special.” Soft, romantic waves that cascade over one shoulder create this dreamy, feminine look that’s absolutely stunning.

Start with a deep side part, then curl large sections of hair away from your face. The asymmetry created by the side part makes this style way more interesting than center-parted waves.

5. The Edgy Undercut Side Part

Want to make a statement? Combine a side part with an undercut for a look that’s both feminine and fierce. I won’t lie – this one takes some commitment, but the payoff is incredible.

The contrast between the longer top section and the shaved sides creates amazing texture and dimension. Plus, it’s surprisingly versatile – you can style it sleek for work or tousled for weekends.

6. The Textured Lob Side Part

The long bob (or “lob” as we cool kids call it) paired with a side part and loose, textured waves is probably the most universally flattering hairstyle ever created. Fight me on this.

This style works because it hits at that perfect length – not too short, not too long – and the side part adds movement and interest. It’s like the little black dress of hairstyles.

Creating Perfect Texture

Getting that effortless texture isn’t actually effortless (sorry!). Here’s how I do it:

• Start with texturizing mousse on damp hair
• Scrunch while blow-drying with a diffuser
• Use sea salt spray for that beachy finish
• Don’t overbrush – sometimes messy is better

7. The Voluminous Side Part Blowout

This is giving me serious hair commercial vibes every time. Maximum volume with a deep side part creates drama and glamour that’s perfect for special occasions.

The secret is in the blow-drying technique. Use a large round brush and lift sections high while drying. The side part helps direct all that volume to one side, creating beautiful asymmetry.

8. The Braided Side Part Crown

Who says side parts have to be simple? Incorporate a small braid along your part line for a boho-chic twist that’s surprisingly easy to recreate.

Start your side part extra deep, then braid a small section along the hairline. This adds texture and interest while keeping hair off your face – perfect for those humid summer days when you just can’t deal.

9. The Sleek Straight Side Part

Sometimes simple is best. Ultra-straight hair with a sharp side part is minimalist perfection that works in any setting, from boardrooms to brunches.

The key is achieving that glass-like smoothness with a high-quality flat iron. Take small sections and work slowly – rushing this look will leave you with kinks and bumps.

Products That Actually Work

I’ve tried approximately a million hair products (occupational hazard of being beauty-obsessed), so here are my must-haves for side part styles:

• Heat protectant spray – non-negotiable for any heated styling
• Lightweight hair oil – for shine without grease
• Strong-hold hairspray – to lock in your part placement
• Texturizing powder – for volume at the roots

10. The Messy Side Part Updo

This is my “I’m late but need to look intentional” hairstyle. A loose, textured updo with pieces framing your face from a deep side part is effortlessly elegant.

The messier, the better with this one. Pull out a few face-framing pieces, leave the part slightly imperfect, and embrace the undone vibe. It’s giving “I just threw this together” in the best possible way.

11. The Curly Side Part Shag

Curly hair and side parts are a match made in heaven, especially when you add shag layers for movement and dimension. This combination celebrates your natural texture while adding structure.

The side part helps prevent that triangle shape that curly hair can sometimes create, while the layers add bounce and life. It’s giving main character energy, and I’m here for it.

12. The Pin-Straight Side Part

Ultra-sleek, pin-straight hair with a dramatic side part is giving me serious 2000s vibes, but in the best way possible. This look is bold, confident, and undeniably chic.

The key is starting with properly prepped hair – use a smoothing serum before blow-drying, then follow up with a ceramic flat iron for that mirror-like finish.

Face Shape Considerations

Not all side parts are created equal. Here’s what works best for different face shapes:

• Round faces: Deep, dramatic side parts create length
• Square faces: Softer, less severe parts balance strong jawlines
• Heart-shaped faces: Medium side parts prevent top-heaviness
• Oval faces: Lucky you – almost any part works!

13. The Retro Victory Roll Side Part

Feeling vintage? Victory rolls with a deep side part transport you straight to the 1940s glamour era. This style requires some practice, but the results are absolutely stunning.

Start with a dramatic side part, then roll sections of hair upward and back, securing with bobby pins. It’s giving old Hollywood starlet vibes that never go out of style.

14. The Beach Wave Side Part

This is summer in a hairstyle. Loose, tousled waves with a relaxed side part capture that perfect “just got back from vacation” vibe year-round.

The beauty of this style is its imperfection. Scrunch in some sea salt spray, let your hair air-dry, and embrace whatever texture emerges. Sometimes the best looks happen by accident.

15. The Dramatic Deep Side Part

When in doubt, go deeper. An extremely deep side part that covers almost half your forehead is bold, statement-making, and surprisingly versatile.

This works especially well with longer hair because you have more length to play with. The extreme asymmetry creates instant drama and sophistication – perfect for when you want to feel like a mysterious movie character.

Maintenance Tips That Actually Matter

Let’s keep it real – maintaining any side part style requires some effort. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Sleep on a silk pillowcase to prevent frizz and maintain smoothness
• Use dry shampoo strategically to add texture and volume at roots
• Invest in regular trims to keep layers and shape looking fresh
• Switch up your part occasionally to prevent permanent creasing

Making It Work for Your Lifestyle

The best hairstyle is one that fits your actual life, not just your Pinterest board. Consider your daily routine, hair texture, and maintenance preferences when choosing a side part style.

If you’re always rushing in the mornings, opt for styles that look great with minimal effort. If you love spending time on your hair, embrace more complex techniques and textures. There’s no wrong choice – just what works for you.

Remember, confidence is the best accessory you can wear with any hairstyle. Whether you choose a sleek bob or textured shag, own your look and wear it with pride. After all, the most beautiful thing about changing your part is rediscovering how amazing you can look with such a simple switch.

Ready to transform your look? Grab that comb and start experimenting – your mirror (and Instagram followers) will thank you! 🙂