Side Parts Are Back! Here are 11 Ways to Wear Them, According to the Pros

A divisive hairstyle that created a generational divide is officially back as the go-to look for every beloved A-lister and “It” girl. Spring 2026 marks the return of the side.

Before any naysayers start arguing about its millennial feel, the side section already has a rich history that predates its early days. Rachael Gibson, a writer known as a “hair historian,” says side-swept hairstyles date back to the 1920s, when side-swept “garconne” short hair became more popular among women. The side part continued to be popular in the 1940s, when it was paired with longer curls to create a more romantic and feminine feel (Veronica Lake), and made a comeback in the early ’90s, when supermodel outbursts ruled every hair mood board.

Today’s side section not only proves that trends are cyclical; This time, it’s a response to the minimalist “clean girl” aesthetic that has dominated our social media for the past few years. In short, people are craving something more exciting. “There’s no question that people are craving change and options that allow them to incorporate their hair more into the look,” says Gibson. “Swept sides of hair feel more relaxed and less worked on, while still letting the hair take up space. It’s dramatic, brings the hair into the look, and allows you to play more with volume and texture.”

“A side parting instantly makes the look feel more intentional and stylized,” adds celebrity hairstylist David von Cannon. “It creates asymmetry, is naturally more dynamic to the eye, adds volume to the heavier side, and just shows that you did something intentionally — even if it looks effortless.” Who doesn’t want that?

How to style it

Anything goes with the sides. As the name suggests, a side part is parting your hair to one side instead of parting it in the middle. Carlyn Griscti, a hairstylist at Beauty Supply Salon in New York, says there are many options for side-parted hairstyles, from a sleek, deep parting to a more relaxed messy style, and there’s something for everyone.

Von Cannon says when trying to decide where your side part should go, it depends on what look you’re going for. “Want more volume? Go against your natural parts. If you want something softer and flatter, go with it,” he says. Face shape is also a factor in which side looks best, with a deeper side part creating more length for round faces, while a softer part can add softness to an angular face.

Griscti recommends using a brow arch to help guide the parts you want to line up, especially if you’re going for a sleeker look. But when in doubt: “Always trust the mirror more than any rule,” says von Cannon.

While it remains to be seen whether Gen Z and Millennials will call a truce on this hot topic, if you’re on the team and looking for more coaching inspiration, we’ve got you. Below, experts detail some of their favorite design approaches: