The side part haircut stands as one of the most timeless and versatile hairstyles in men’s grooming history.
Whether you’re heading to a corporate meeting, a casual weekend gathering, or a formal event, The Ultimate Guide: Top 36+ Side Part Haircuts for Men offers a comprehensive exploration of styles that have defined masculine elegance across generations.
This classic look has evolved from the slicked-back styles of the 1920s to modern textured variations that suit every face shape, hair type, and personal style.
From sharp executive cuts to relaxed contemporary versions, the side part continues to dominate barbershops worldwide because it combines sophistication with adaptability.
This guide walks you through over 36 distinct variations, helping you discover the perfect side part that complements your features, lifestyle, and grooming preferences while providing practical styling tips and maintenance advice to keep your look sharp every single day.
1. Classic Side Part
The classic side part represents the foundation of all modern variations and remains the go-to choice for men seeking timeless elegance.
This style features a clean, defined parting line typically positioned above the temple, with hair combed neatly to one side.
Key Characteristics:
- The parting line is created using a comb and sits approximately one to two inches from the center of the head
- Hair on the heavier side is swept across the crown while the opposite side lies flat against the scalp
- Length typically ranges from 2 to 4 inches on top with shorter, tapered sides
- Works exceptionally well with straight to slightly wavy hair textures
- Requires daily styling with pomade or styling cream to maintain the polished appearance
Styling Requirements:
- Apply a medium-hold pomade to damp hair for a natural finish
- Use a fine-toothed comb to create the precise parting line
- Blow-dry while directing hair away from the part for added volume
- Finish with a light hairspray to lock the style in place throughout the day
- Maintain regular trims every 3-4 weeks to preserve the shape and clean lines
2. Hard Part Side Cut
The hard part side cut elevates the traditional style with a surgically precise line shaved into the scalp, creating a bold statement that defines the parting with unmistakable clarity.
Distinctive Features:
- A razor-shaved line replaces the natural part, typically measuring 1-2mm wide
- The shaved line extends from the hairline back toward the crown
- Creates a stark contrast between the parted sections, emphasizing the style’s architecture
- Particularly popular among younger men and those in creative industries
- Adds an edgy, contemporary twist to an otherwise classic look
Maintenance Tips:
- Visit your barber every 2-3 weeks to maintain the crisp shaved line
- Use a strong-hold styling product to keep hair from crossing over the part
- The hard part works best with fades or undercuts on the sides
- Apply styling clay or paste for a matte, textured finish on top
- Consider your workplace culture before committing to this more distinctive variation
3. Side Part with Fade
Combining the elegance of a side part with the clean, modern aesthetic of a fade creates a versatile look that bridges traditional and contemporary styling.
Fade Variations:
- Low fade begins the taper just above the ears, maintaining more length on the sides
- Mid fade starts the transition at temple level, offering balanced proportions
- High fade begins near the top of the head, creating dramatic contrast with the longer top
- Skin fade takes the sides down to bare skin for maximum impact
- Drop fade follows the natural curve behind the ears for a softer, more organic transition
Styling Approach:
- The fade provides a low-maintenance canvas while the top requires daily styling
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair before blow-drying
- Use a medium-hold pomade or styling cream to define the side part
- The contrast between the faded sides and styled top creates visual interest
- This combination works excellently for oval, square, and diamond face shapes
4. Textured Side Part
The textured side part abandons the slicked-back polish of traditional versions in favor of a more relaxed, contemporary aesthetic with visible movement and separation.
Texture Creation Methods:
- Point-cutting technique during the haircut creates natural texture and removes bulk
- Layering adds dimension and prevents the hair from lying too flat
- Sea salt spray applied to damp hair enhances natural wave patterns
- Matte clay or fiber products separate strands for a piecey, lived-in appearance
- Blow-drying with fingers rather than a brush maintains organic texture
Best Hair Types:
- Naturally wavy or slightly curly hair responds beautifully to this style
- Straight hair can achieve texture through proper cutting techniques and products
- Medium to thick hair density provides the best foundation for visible texture
- Fine hair benefits from texturizing products that add grip and volume
- Works particularly well for men with cowlicks or natural movement in their hair
5. Deep Side Part
The deep side part pushes the parting line significantly off-center, creating dramatic asymmetry that draws attention and exudes confidence.
Positioning Guidelines:
- The part typically sits 2-3 inches from the center line, closer to one side
- Creates a larger swept section that covers more of the head
- The smaller side is usually kept shorter or slicked down close to the scalp
- Particularly flattering for round or square face shapes by adding vertical dimension
- Creates a sophisticated, fashion-forward appearance suitable for creative professionals
Styling Technique:
- Apply a strong-hold gel or pomade to create the deep part and keep it defined
- Blow-dry the larger section away from the face for maximum volume
- Use a flat brush to smooth the smaller side against the head
- The dramatic sweep requires secure hold to prevent hair from falling forward
- Consider face symmetry when determining which side should carry more weight
6. Side Part with Undercut
Pairing a side part with an undercut creates bold contrast and reduces styling time on the sides while maintaining sophisticated styling on top.
Undercut Specifications:
- The sides and back are clipped to one uniform length, typically between #2 and #4 guard
- A clear line of demarcation separates the short sides from the longer top
- No gradual fade exists—the transition is intentional and abrupt
- Top length can range from 3 to 6 inches depending on personal preference
- The disconnected look appeals to men seeking an edgier aesthetic
Advantages:
- Dramatically reduces morning styling time for the sides and back
- Creates cooling airflow in hot weather due to the short sides
- The contrast emphasizes the styled top section
- Works excellently with thick, coarse hair that’s difficult to taper
- Allows for versatile top styling—slicked back, swept over, or textured
7. Vintage Side Part
The vintage side part recreates the golden age of Hollywood glamour, channeling the sophistication of icons from the 1930s through 1950s.
Historical Styling Elements:
- High shine achieved through pomades or Brilliantine products
- Precise, immaculate grooming with not a hair out of place
- Moderate length on top, typically 3-4 inches, with enough weight to stay in place
- Sides are kept relatively shorter but not faded, maintaining a cohesive length
- Often paired with a neat mustache or clean-shaven face for authentic period appeal
Modern Adaptation:
- Contemporary versions reduce shine slightly for everyday wearability
- Water-based pomades replace traditional petroleum products for easier washing
- Can be styled with slightly looser precision for a more accessible vintage vibe
- Pairs beautifully with tailored suits, suspenders, and classic menswear
- Perfect for themed events, weddings, or men who appreciate retro aesthetics
8. Side Part with Pompadour
Combining the side part’s sophistication with the pompadour’s dramatic height creates a statement style that commands attention in any setting.
Construction Elements:
- The front section is styled upward and backward, creating significant volume
- A defined side part channels hair from the crown to one side
- Sides can be faded, tapered, or left with moderate length depending on preference
- Requires 4-6 inches of length on top to achieve proper pompadour height
- The swept-back portion on the heavier side adds width and frames the face
Styling Process:
- Apply pre-styler or volumizing mousse to damp hair
- Blow-dry the front section upward using a round brush for lift
- Create the side part with a comb once the pompadour is established
- Use a strong-hold pomade or gel to secure the height and swept sections
- Finish with hairspray to ensure the style lasts throughout the day
9. Side Part with Quiff
The side part quiff offers a more relaxed alternative to the pompadour while still providing impressive height and forward-swept movement.
Quiff Characteristics:
- The front section is styled upward and slightly forward rather than backward
- Less structured than a pompadour, allowing for more texture and movement
- The side part directs the flow of the quiff to one side
- Creates a youthful, energetic appearance perfect for casual and semi-formal settings
- Works particularly well with naturally wavy or thick hair
Product Recommendations:
- Matte clay or fiber provides texture with medium hold
- Sea salt spray adds grip and enhances natural wave patterns
- Volumizing powder at the roots creates lift without shine
- Avoid heavy gels or pomades that can weigh down the quiff’s natural movement
- Light hairspray helps maintain shape while preserving touchable texture
10. Side Part Comb Over
The side part comb over represents refined elegance, featuring hair swept dramatically across the head from a defined parting line.
Styling Specifications:
- Hair is combed from the part across the top of the head to the opposite side
- The sweep can cover varying amounts of the head depending on hair length and volume
- Creates coverage while maintaining a polished, intentional appearance
- Particularly effective for men with thinning hair when styled with volume
- Requires enough length on top (3-5 inches) to achieve the proper sweep
Professional Applications:
- Ideal for corporate environments requiring conservative, polished grooming
- Projects authority and attention to detail in business settings
- Pairs excellently with formal attire from business casual to black tie
- Can be adapted from sleek and shiny to textured and matte depending on product choice
- Regular maintenance ensures clean lines and prevents an unkempt appearance
11. Side Part with Slick Back
Merging the side part with a slicked-back style creates a powerful, authoritative look that exudes confidence and control.
Key Elements:
- The side part is clearly defined while all hair is directed backward
- Creates a streamlined silhouette that elongates the face
- High-shine pomades or gels emphasize the sleek, polished finish
- Works best with straight to slightly wavy hair textures
- Requires 3-5 inches of length on top to achieve the proper backward sweep
Hold Requirements:
- Strong-hold products are essential to maintain the backward direction throughout the day
- Apply product to damp hair and use a comb to direct everything backward from the part
- The sides should be kept relatively short to emphasize the slicked-back top
- Reapplication may be necessary for all-day wear, especially in humid conditions
- Works exceptionally well for formal events, business meetings, and evening occasions
12. Side Part with Taper
The side part with taper offers a refined, professional appearance through gradual length reduction that creates soft, natural transitions.
Taper Specifications:
- Hair gradually decreases in length from the top toward the neckline and around the ears
- Unlike a fade, the taper maintains visible hair throughout rather than going to skin
- Creates a softer, more conservative appearance than dramatic fades
- The graduated length blends seamlessly with the longer, side-parted top
- Ideal for professional environments with strict grooming standards
Versatility Factors:
- Tapers work with virtually any hair texture and density
- The subtle transition complements various face shapes without creating harsh lines
- Requires less frequent maintenance than sharp fades
- Can be styled formally with pomade or casually with light texture products
- Provides a timeless look that doesn’t appear overly trendy or dated
13. Side Part with Crop
Combining a side part with a crop creates a modern, low-maintenance style that works particularly well for active lifestyles and minimal styling routines.
Crop Characteristics:
- Overall shorter length throughout, typically 1-2 inches on top
- The fringe area is cut bluntly or with slight texture rather than swept back
- A subtle side part adds definition without requiring extensive daily styling
- Sides are usually faded or kept short to maintain the crop’s proportions
- Creates a youthful, contemporary appearance with masculine edge
Styling Simplicity:
- Requires minimal product—a small amount of matte paste or clay suffices
- Can be styled forward, to the side, or with slight upward texture
- Dries quickly after washing, reducing morning routine time
- The shorter length prevents the hair from becoming unruly throughout the day
- Excellent for men with active jobs or athletic lifestyles
14. Side Part with Wave
The side part with wave capitalizes on natural curl patterns, creating dimension and visual interest through enhanced wave definition.
Wave Enhancement:
- Works with hair that has natural wave or curl patterns rather than fighting against them
- Curl-enhancing products define and separate wave patterns while reducing frizz
- The side part provides structure to what might otherwise appear uncontrolled
- Creates a distinguished, sophisticated look that acknowledges natural texture
- Particularly popular among men with Mediterranean, Hispanic, or Middle Eastern heritage
Product Selection:
- Curl creams and leave-in conditioners maintain moisture and definition
- Light-hold gels can enhance wave patterns without creating stiffness
- Diffusing while blow-drying preserves natural wave structure
- Avoid heavy waxes or pomades that can weigh down waves and create greasiness
- Refresh waves on non-wash days with a light mist of water and curl refresher spray
15. Side Part with Fringe
The side part with fringe combines classic parting with forward-swept bangs, creating a versatile style that frames the face attractively.
Fringe Variations:
- Textured fringe features separation and movement for a casual, contemporary look
- Blunt fringe creates a bold, fashion-forward statement with clean lines
- Wispy fringe offers a softer, more subtle frame around the forehead
- The fringe typically falls somewhere between the eyebrows and the top of the eyes
- The side part dictates which direction the fringe will naturally sweep
Face Shape Considerations:
- Round faces benefit from side-swept fringes that create the illusion of length
- Square faces are softened by textured fringes that break up angular features
- Oblong faces should opt for fuller fringes that add width
- Heart-shaped faces look excellent with side-parted fringes that balance the forehead
- Diamond faces pair well with textured fringes that add width to the forehead area
16. Side Part with Brushed Back
The side part with brushed back style maintains the parting while directing hair away from the face, combining structure with relaxed sophistication.
Styling Approach:
- Hair is brushed backward from the side part rather than strictly to one side
- Creates volume and lift while maintaining the defining parting line
- Less formal than a slick back but more polished than fully textured styles
- Works excellently with medium to thick hair that has natural body
- The brushed-back portion can be left slightly loose or secured firmly depending on preference
Occasion Versatility:
- Appropriate for both professional settings and casual social occasions
- Can be adjusted throughout the day—styled looser for evening events after work
- Pairs well with everything from business suits to jeans and a blazer
- The partial back direction keeps hair off the face without appearing overly formal
- Suitable for men transitioning from very formal to more contemporary styles
17. Side Part with Long Top
Extending the top length while maintaining a side part creates dramatic contrast and opens up numerous styling possibilities.
Length Specifications:
- Top hair ranges from 5 to 8 inches, providing significant styling versatility
- Sides are typically kept much shorter—faded or tapered to emphasize the length difference
- The added length allows for multiple daily styling options from the same haircut
- Requires commitment to daily styling and regular maintenance appointments
- Works best for men with thick, healthy hair that can support the length without appearing thin
Styling Versatility:
- Can be slicked back for formal occasions
- Swept dramatically to one side for everyday professional appearance
- Styled with texture and movement for casual settings
- Pulled up into a small man bun or top knot when desired
- The side part provides consistent structure regardless of how the length is styled
18. Side Part with Short Sides
Maximizing the contrast between the top and sides creates a bold, contemporary interpretation of the classic side part.
Contrast Creation:
- Sides are clipped extremely short, often with a #1 or #2 guard
- The stark difference emphasizes the styled top section
- Creates a clean, low-maintenance perimeter while focusing attention on the parted top
- Excellent for men who want a polished look without excessive daily styling time
- The short sides remain neat for longer periods between haircuts
Face Shape Enhancement:
- The contrast adds height, beneficial for round or square faces seeking length
- Wide faces appear more proportionate with significant side volume reduction
- The clean sides create a frame that draws attention to facial features
- Works particularly well for men with strong jawlines or defined cheekbones
- Can be adjusted based on head shape—very short for larger heads, slightly longer for smaller
19. Side Part with Natural Flow
Embracing hair’s natural movement while incorporating a side part creates an effortless, lived-in appearance that requires minimal intervention.
Natural Characteristics:
- The side part follows the hair’s natural growth pattern rather than fighting against it
- Minimal product allows hair to move organically throughout the day
- Works with natural texture—waves, slight curls, or straight patterns
- Creates an approachable, relaxed appearance perfect for creative fields
- The styling appears effortless even though thoughtful cutting creates the foundation
Maintenance Philosophy:
- Regular trims maintain shape without requiring daily intensive styling
- Air-drying or simple blow-drying with fingers preserves natural movement
- Light, flexible-hold products enhance rather than control the hair
- The style improves slightly throughout the day as hair settles into natural patterns
- Ideal for men seeking a polished appearance without high-maintenance routines
20. Side Part with Volume
Intentionally creating volume in a side-parted style adds dimension and presence, particularly beneficial for fine or thinning hair.
Volume-Building Techniques:
- Blow-drying with a round brush lifts hair away from the scalp at the roots
- Volumizing products applied at the roots create sustainable lift
- Backcombing or teasing at the crown adds height without visible texture at the surface
- The side part is positioned to maximize the fuller side’s appearance
- Strategic layering during cutting removes weight that pulls hair flat
Product Selection:
- Volumizing mousses applied to damp hair create foundational lift
- Root-lifting sprays target the scalp area for maximum impact
- Dry shampoo or volumizing powder adds texture and grip between washes
- Light-hold hairsprays lock in volume without weighing hair down
- Avoid heavy oils, serums, or pomades that can flatten carefully built volume
21. Side Part Business Professional
The business professional side part prioritizes impeccable grooming standards that convey authority and attention to detail in corporate environments.
Corporate Standards:
- Conservative length on top, typically 2-4 inches, maintains professional appearance
- Sides are neatly tapered or faded to regulations if applicable
- High shine or moderate shine finish depending on industry culture
- The part is precisely executed and maintained throughout the day
- Overall appearance is polished without being trendy or attention-seeking
22. Side Part Casual Style
Adapting the side part for casual settings maintains the style’s foundational elegance while introducing relaxed, approachable elements.
Casual Adaptations:
- Looser styling allows slight movement and imperfection
- Matte finishes replace high shine for everyday wearability
- Textured rather than smooth surfaces create contemporary appeal
- The part may be less precisely defined than formal versions
- Overall appearance prioritizes comfort and authenticity over rigid perfection
Weekend Versatility:
- Pairs effortlessly with jeans, t-shirts, and casual button-downs
- Requires minimal morning maintenance—quick product application and finger-styling suffice
- Can transition from daytime activities to evening social events
- The relaxed approach suits brunches, barbecues, and informal gatherings
- Maintains a put-together appearance without appearing overdressed for the occasion
23. Side Part with Beard
Pairing a side part with facial hair creates a complete grooming aesthetic that demonstrates attention to detail across the entire appearance.
Coordination Principles:
- The clean lines of a side part complement similarly groomed facial hair
- Beard length should balance with hair length—longer hair pairs with fuller beards
- The side part’s sophistication elevates even casual beard styles
- Necklines and cheek lines should be cleanly defined to match the haircut’s precision
- Color coordination between hair products and beard oils creates cohesive shine levels
Popular Combinations:
- Classic side part with full, well-maintained beard for distinguished appearance
- Modern textured side part with medium stubble for casual sophistication
- Slicked side part with sculpted beard for formal occasions
- Side part with fade and trimmed beard for contemporary style
- Vintage side part with handlebar mustache for period authenticity
24. Side Part for Thick Hair
Thick hair presents unique opportunities for side part styling, allowing for substantial volume and impressive presence when properly managed.
Thick Hair Advantages:
- Natural volume creates dramatic side-swept effects without additional product
- Holds styles longer due to hair weight and density
- Can support longer lengths without appearing thin or wispy
- The side part helps control and direct otherwise overwhelming volume
- Creates particularly striking contrast when paired with faded or tapered sides
Management Techniques:
- Thinning shears remove bulk without sacrificing length
- Layering prevents the mushroom effect common with thick hair
- Strong-hold products are essential to maintain parted direction
- Blow-drying with proper technique directs thick hair into desired positions
- Regular trims prevent thick hair from becoming shapeless and difficult to manage
25. Side Part for Fine Hair
Fine hair requires specific techniques to create the appearance of fullness while maintaining the elegant structure of a side part.
Volume Creation:
- Strategic positioning of the part creates the illusion of density
- Shorter lengths prevent fine hair from lying flat against the scalp
- Volumizing products at the roots provide sustainable lift throughout the day
- Blow-drying techniques create and lock in essential volume
- The side part should be positioned to maximize the fuller side’s appearance
Product Considerations:
- Light mousses add volume without weighing down fine strands
- Dry shampoos create texture and grip while absorbing oils
- Avoid heavy pomades, waxes, or oils that can make fine hair appear greasy and limp
- Powder products lift roots without visible residue
- Hairsprays should be flexible hold to maintain touchable texture
26. Side Part for Wavy Hair
Wavy hair provides natural texture that, when combined with a side part, creates dimension and visual interest with minimal effort.
Wave Enhancement:
- The side part provides structure to natural wave patterns
- Defines the direction of wave flow, preventing a disheveled appearance
- Curl-enhancing products maintain definition without creating stiffness
- The waves add movement and dynamism to the classic side part structure
- Works particularly well for casual and smart-casual settings
Styling Techniques:
- Apply product to damp hair to enhance natural wave formation
- Diffuse or air-dry to preserve wave patterns without frizz
- Use fingers rather than combs to maintain organic texture
- The side part can be created with a comb and then left to wave naturally
- Embrace the movement rather than fighting against it with excessive product
27. Side Part for Curly Hair
Curly hair brings unique personality to the side part, requiring specific approaches to maintain definition while incorporating the classic parting.
Curl-Specific Considerations:
- The side part should follow natural curl pattern directions
- Tighter curls may require longer length to show the part effectively
- Moisture is essential—dry curls appear frizzy and lose definition
- The contrast between structured parting and natural curl creates compelling visual interest
- Embrace curl texture rather than attempting to straighten or suppress it
Product Requirements:
- Leave-in conditioners maintain moisture and prevent frizz
- Curl-defining creams enhance natural patterns without crunch
- Gel can define the part while allowing curls to maintain their character
- Avoid sulfate-containing products that dry out curly hair
- Regular deep conditioning treatments keep curls healthy and defined
28. Side Part for Straight Hair
Straight hair provides the ideal canvas for precise, clean side parts that showcase the style’s classic elegance with maximum clarity.
Straight Hair Benefits:
- The parting line is easily defined and remains visible throughout the day
- Hair naturally lies in the direction it’s styled without fighting wave patterns
- Creates the sleekest, most polished versions of side part styles
- Responds excellently to blow-drying and heat styling
- Showcases shine and product finish more visibly than textured hair types
Styling Precision:
- Use a fine-toothed comb to create the sharpest possible parting line
- Apply product evenly to prevent sections from appearing separated or greasy
- Blow-drying in the styled direction locks in the look
- Straight hair may require less product than textured types to achieve similar hold
- The clean lines are perfect for formal and professional settings
29. Side Part for Receding Hairline
Strategic side part placement can work with a receding hairline rather than against it, creating flattering styles that embrace natural hair patterns.
Strategic Positioning:
- The part is often positioned slightly forward of traditional placement
- Hair is directed to cover or minimize the appearance of recession
- Volume at the front creates the illusion of fullness
- The heavier side typically covers the more receded area
- Confidence in styling makes the look work regardless of hairline position
Complementary Techniques:
- Faded or tapered sides draw attention away from the hairline
- Textured styling creates the appearance of density
- Avoid slicked-back styles that expose the entire hairline
- Strategic length and positioning make the most of available hair
- Embrace the maturity that comes with changing hairlines rather than fighting against it
30. Side Part Low Maintenance
Creating a side part that requires minimal daily effort while maintaining a polished appearance serves men with busy lifestyles perfectly.
Low-Maintenance Elements:
- The haircut itself does most of the work through proper cutting and shaping
- Hair naturally falls into the parted position without extensive manipulation
- Minimal product application—a small amount of paste or cream suffices
- Can be styled in 2-3 minutes after showering
- Looks intentional even if slightly imperfect or tousled throughout the day
Time-Saving Strategies:
- Air-drying works effectively with properly cut hair
- Pre-stylers applied to wet hair reduce the need for finishing products
- The cut maintains shape for 4-6 weeks between appointments
- Simple finger-styling replaces complex blow-drying and combing routines
- Works well for active professionals who prioritize efficiency
31. Side Part for Round Face
The side part can elongate round faces through strategic styling that creates vertical lines and reduces width perception.
Face-Lengthening Techniques:
- Volume on top adds height, creating the illusion of length
- The asymmetry of the side part breaks up roundness
- Shorter, faded sides reduce width and emphasize vertical lines
- Hair swept upward at the front draws the eye vertically
- Avoid excessive width or volume at the sides that can emphasize roundness
Optimal Positioning:
- A deeper side part creates more dramatic asymmetry
- The larger swept section should add height rather than lie flat
- Textured styling prevents the rounded appearance that slicked styles can create
- The overall silhouette should be more vertical than horizontal
- Facial hair can further elongate the face when properly groomed
32. Side Part for Square Face
Square faces benefit from side parts that soften angular features while maintaining masculine strength and definition.
Softening Strategies:
- Textured styling breaks up harsh lines with organic movement
- The side part’s diagonal line contrasts with the face’s angular geometry
- Slightly longer lengths on top add curves and reduce severity
- Fringes or forward-swept sections soften the forehead
- Avoid extremely short, sharp styles that emphasize angularity
Enhancement Techniques:
- The side part complements strong jawlines common in square faces
- Volume on top balances the width of a strong jaw
- Facial hair can be shaped to soften or enhance natural angles
- The asymmetry of the side part creates visual interest
- Both sleek and textured versions work well with square facial structures
