Few hairstyles carry the same effortless sophistication as the side part. Whether you’re going for a polished professional look, a vintage-inspired cut, or something slightly more relaxed, the side part offers versatility and style that suits almost any face shape. With the right haircut, styling techniques, and products, this classic look can be refined for modern tastes. Below, we’ll explore different styles of side-parted haircuts using real-life examples and discuss how to achieve each look with precision.
Soft-Parted Hairstyle with Natural Flow
For a relaxed take on the side part, this look embraces an effortless, slightly undone appeal. The parting is less defined, allowing the hair to fall naturally while still maintaining the essence of a side-parted style. The haircut is medium length, with layers adding dimension and movement.
This style works best with wavy or slightly tousled textures that enhance the organic flow of the hair. A lightweight styling cream or sea salt spray can be used to create soft definition without stiffness. Ideal for men with naturally voluminous or textured hair, this style brings a sense of ease and approachability while still looking refined and put together.
Sharp-Faded Side Part with Contrast
A contemporary twist on the side part, this haircut features a dramatic contrast between the neatly combed top and the sharp fade on the sides. The fade transitions seamlessly from skin-length to a slightly longer length near the part, creating a clean and fresh appearance. The top is styled with a slight lift, adding dimension and refinement to the look.
This polished yet edgy variation is well-suited for men who appreciate a bold yet controlled style. A strong-hold product ensures the top stays structured without stiffening the hair too much. The key to maintaining this haircut is regular trims to keep the fade precise and the top at a manageable length for styling.
Polished Professional Side Part
This haircut epitomizes elegance and finesse, perfect for men who favor a refined, boardroom-ready look. The side part is distinctly marked, with the top hair smoothly combed over to one side, offering a controlled yet slightly voluminous appearance. The hair appears thick and healthy, enhanced by a subtle shine that suggests the use of nourishing styling products like a lightweight pomade or cream.
The sides are neatly tapered, contributing to a well-groomed finish without overly dramatic contrast. This makes the style particularly adaptable for both corporate and formal events. To achieve this look, a round brush and blow dryer work wonders in keeping the top polished and voluminous, followed by a moderate hold product that keeps everything in place throughout the day.
Contemporary Side Part with Sleek Taper
A refined and structured take on the side part, this style features a sleek taper that seamlessly blends the sides into the longer top section. The parting is sharp and precise, emphasizing a clean, polished aesthetic. Styled with a moderate shine product, the hair retains a subtle gloss without appearing overly slicked down.
The well-balanced contrast between the tapered sides and the smooth, swept-over top makes this style universally flattering, ideal for both casual and formal settings. Achieving this look requires a high-quality pomade or styling cream, applied evenly to damp hair before combing into place. Regular upkeep is essential to maintain the crispness of the taper and the sharp definition of the part.
Classic Side Part with a Natural Finish
Timeless and effortlessly dapper, this classic side part embodies sophistication with a more natural, low-maintenance flair. The hair is kept at a medium length, allowing for a defined yet relaxed aesthetic. The part is precise but not overly rigid, contributing to a balanced and approachable appearance.
A matte product, such as a light-hold wax or styling cream, enhances the natural flow of the hair while maintaining control. The slightly tousled texture adds character, making this an excellent choice for men who prefer a polished yet easygoing look. Blow-drying with a vent brush lifts the roots, ensuring volume without stiffness.
Layered Side Part with Soft Waves
This variation of the side part embraces movement and dimension with layered, softly waved hair. The relaxed styling gives a slightly undone yet refined feel, perfect for those who appreciate effortless elegance. The part flows naturally, with the longer layers brushed to the side to maintain structure while allowing for flexibility in the styling.
A lightweight mousse or texture spray enhances the waves without weighing them down, keeping the hair looking fresh throughout the day. This cut is particularly suited for men with naturally wavy or thick hair, as it allows the texture to shine while still appearing intentional and well-groomed.
Undercut Side Part with Bold Contrast
For those seeking a sharp, modern edge, this undercut side part delivers striking contrast between the sleek top and the closely cropped sides. The deep, defined part serves as a focal point, emphasizing the clean separation between lengths. Styled with a high-hold product, the hair maintains its sleekness and structure throughout the day.
This look works particularly well with straight hair, as it allows the sharpness of the cut to stand out. To maintain the crisp, bold effect, regular fades and touch-ups are necessary. A small amount of styling gel or pomade ensures the top stays in place without sacrificing movement.
Casual Textured Side Part
Effortlessly stylish, this casual take on the side part leans into texture and volume for a modern, laid-back vibe. The hair is cut in layers to encourage movement, and the part is less rigid, allowing for a more organic, free-flowing style.
A styling clay or sea salt spray enhances the natural texture, providing hold without making the hair feel stiff. The slightly tapered sides create balance without stark contrast, making this cut highly versatile for different occasions. Perfect for men who want a hairstyle that is easy to maintain yet still looks stylish and put together.
Defined Side Part with Subtle Fade
A sleek and carefully structured hairstyle, this side part features a clean parting line that enhances definition and shape. The top section is left longer, styled with precision for a smooth, polished appearance. The hair has a natural shine, indicating the use of a light pomade or wax that offers hold without stiffness.
The fade on the sides is subtle rather than dramatic, providing a smooth transition that complements the refined silhouette of the haircut. Classic yet contemporary, this style suits men who prefer a neat and controlled look without an overly sharp contrast. Using a fine-tooth comb during styling ensures the side part remains crisp, blending seamlessly with the rest of the hair for a put-together finish.
Classic Side Part with Sleek Control
Channeling old-school elegance, this side part is defined by its slick, sculpted shape and impeccable control. The hair appears thick and naturally voluminous, styled with a product that offers a healthy sheen without excess slickness. The top is combed neatly to one side, adhering to a traditional aesthetic while allowing for slight movement.
The sides are cut in a clean taper that blends effortlessly into the top, ensuring a well-balanced silhouette. This hairstyle is ideal for formal occasions or professional settings, as it exudes confidence and sophistication. To maintain this polished look, a wet-look pomade or grooming cream can be applied evenly, followed by a comb-through to enhance its structure.
Wavy Side Part with Relaxed Flow
For a softer take on the classic side part, this style embraces waves and texture to create a relaxed yet intentional aesthetic. The parting is natural rather than sharply defined, allowing the layers to flow easily for a casual yet refined appearance.
The hair’s volume and movement make this an excellent choice for men with naturally wavy textures. A lightweight mousse or salt spray can enhance the waves while keeping them touchable and soft. This style works well for both work and social occasions, offering a balance between polish and effortlessness. Blow-drying with a diffuser can help sustain the hair’s natural shape while adding just the right amount of lift.
Modern Side Part with Bold Fade
A striking contrast between sharp definition and a closely faded undercut, this hairstyle elevates the side part with a modern edge. The deep part enhances the distinction between the voluminous top and the neatly faded sides, creating a bold and structured look.
The fade is executed with precision, gradually transitioning from skin-close to a slightly longer length as it moves toward the part. The top is styled with added volume, bringing texture and depth to the overall appearance. Achieving this look requires a firm-hold styling cream or pomade, worked through the hair from root to tip before being combed into place. This is an effortlessly cool and highly tailored style, perfect for those who appreciate a fresh, dynamic haircut.
Classic Retro Side Part
Drawing inspiration from vintage aesthetics, this retro-inspired side part looks straight out of a golden era of men’s grooming. The hair is styled with precision, featuring a deep parting that enhances structure while maintaining a controlled silhouette.
A glossy product, possibly a pomade or high-shine wax, helps achieve the sleek, sculpted effect. The sides are trimmed neatly but not overly short, keeping the look refined and classic. This style works exceptionally well for formal events or for those who embrace timeless sartorial elegance. A fine-tooth comb and a bit of blow-drying help lock in the shape, ensuring the style remains crisp throughout the day.
Bold Side Part with Undercut Definition
This hairstyle makes an immediate statement with its bold side part and sharply defined undercut. The deep, clean part enhances the contrast between the sleek top and the closely cropped sides, creating a modern and edgy silhouette. The undercut is executed with precision, ensuring a seamless transition that draws attention to the structured top.
A high-hold pomade or gel is essential for maintaining the sleekness of the longer section while keeping frizz at bay. This style works particularly well for those with straight or slightly wavy hair, as it showcases the clarity of the part and the sharp lines of the cut. Regular trims are necessary to sustain the crisp undercut, keeping the overall look polished and intentional.
Modern Textured Side Part
Blending classic styling with a contemporary, lived-in feel, this modern textured side part exudes effortless sophistication. The top hair is layered to enhance movement and volume, allowing for a natural, slightly tousled effect. Rather than a rigid slicked-back look, this hairstyle embraces flexibility, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.
The sides are tapered neatly but without an exaggerated fade, keeping the focus on the textured top. A matte clay or a lightweight styling cream helps maintain structure while preserving the soft, touchable finish. Ideal for men seeking a stylish yet easygoing look, this haircut pairs well with casual and business-casual attire alike. Blow-drying with a round brush adds lift at the roots, amplifying volume for a dynamic effect.
Effortless Side Part with Soft Movement
This relaxed take on the side part emphasizes natural movement and softness, perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back aesthetic. The parting is subtle rather than sharply defined, allowing hair to flow naturally while maintaining an effortlessly polished appearance. The medium-length cut features light layers, adding dimension and body.
A texturizing cream or sea salt spray enhances the hair’s natural wave, promoting a carefree yet refined vibe. This style suits men with medium to thick hair, particularly those looking to highlight their hair’s natural bounce without excessive styling effort. To achieve this look, minimal product is required—just enough to hold the shape in place while maintaining a free-flowing feel.
Sharp Side Part with Dramatic Taper
For a striking, well-defined haircut, this sharp side part with a dramatic taper is the epitome of precision. The high taper creates a bold contrast between the neatly faded sides and the pristine, sculpted top. This effect enhances the deep side part, making it the focal point of the hairstyle.
The top section is styled with a firm-hold pomade or wax, ensuring a sleek and controlled finish without stiffness. While polished, the look retains a modern edge thanks to its expert fade and deliberate structure. This haircut is perfect for those who want a refined yet distinctly bold appearance, making it suitable for both professional settings and stylish social outings.
Classic Retro Side Part with Volume
A timeless nod to mid-century refinement, this classic retro side part radiates old-school charm with a touch of modern polish. The hair is sculpted with a slight lift at the top, adding volume while maintaining structured elegance. The side part is crisp, reinforcing the neatly groomed aesthetic that characterizes retro-inspired hairstyles.
A high-shine oil-based pomade or firm-hold wax helps achieve this distinguished look, keeping the hair smooth and well-arranged. The sides are neatly tapered, ensuring harmony between the top and the rest of the cut. This is the ideal style for men who appreciate classic grooming and want to exude effortless charisma with a vintage touch.
Modern Side Part with Subtle Undercut
This sleek and contemporary take on the side part merges precision with modern appeal. The top features a neatly combed section with a distinct side part, styled with a slight lift for added dimension. The subtle undercut on the sides enhances contrast without feeling overly sharp, making the transition smooth and well-balanced.
A medium-hold matte product helps maintain structure while keeping the hair touchable and natural. This style is perfect for those who prefer a clean yet versatile look that can be adapted for both casual and formal settings. Regular trims will ensure the sharpness of the part and the smooth flow of the layers.
Low-Fade Side Part with Defined Structure
A refined blend of classic and modern aesthetics, this side part pairs a structured top with a subtle low fade for a polished yet adaptable style. The fade transitions seamlessly into the longer top section, emphasizing clean lines and a well-balanced silhouette.
Styled with a light pomade or wax, the hair remains controlled without appearing rigid. The natural shine enhances the depth of the look, bringing out the sharpness of the parting. Ideal for professionals and fashion-conscious individuals alike, this cut requires minimal styling effort while maintaining a sophisticated appearance.
Relaxed Side Part with Layered Texture
A softer approach to the traditional side part, this style embraces movement and effortless volume. The layers add depth, creating a natural flow that enhances the relaxed, laid-back feel. The side part is less defined, allowing the hair to settle with an air of casual sophistication.
A light styling cream or sea salt spray helps achieve the tousled yet refined effect, making this look ideal for those who prefer a more lived-in aesthetic. Perfect for medium-length hair, this style offers an easy-to-maintain yet fashionable alternative to stricter, more structured cuts.
Sharp Side Part with Clean Fade
This bold interpretation of the side part features a sharp, well-defined parting that enhances the contrast between the full-bodied top and the precisely faded sides. The fade begins high, ensuring a modern and structured finish that complements the streamlined overall shape.
A firm-hold pomade or styling cream helps maintain the slick precision of the top while keeping frizz under control. This look is perfect for those who appreciate a highly groomed aesthetic that stays sharp and polished throughout the day. Regular touch-ups are necessary to maintain the intensity of the fade and keep the part crisp.
Urban Edge Side Part with Strong Definition
Exuding confidence and modern flair, this urban-inspired side part blends structured styling with an edgy appeal. The deep parting enhances definition, while the top remains voluminous and slightly tousled for a textured effect. The taper on the sides gradually fades, creating a harmonious balance between clean sharpness and natural movement.
A lightweight styling paste or volumizing mousse adds flexibility to the look, ensuring it retains a structured yet laid-back flow. This style is particularly well-suited for men who want a dynamic, stylish haircut that can transition effortlessly from professional environments to casual outings.
Modern Side Part with Sleek Definition
A bold and refined take on the side part, this hairstyle is all about precision and sleek control. The side part is sharply defined, creating a clean division between the neatly combed top and the closely tapered sides. A moderate fade enhances the contrast, ensuring a structured yet polished finish.
Styling is kept smooth and controlled with a strong-hold pomade or gel, lending the hair a subtle sheen without appearing overly slick. This look is particularly well-suited for formal occasions or professional settings where a sharp, well-groomed appearance is essential. Regular maintenance is key to keeping the part crisp and the fade clean, ensuring the style remains fresh and sophisticated.
Low-Fade Side Part with a Refined Edge
A modern take on the classic side part, this hairstyle features a low fade that creates a smooth transition from the neatly styled top to the shorter sides. The fade adds a contemporary edge while maintaining a timeless appeal. The part is distinct yet not overly defined, allowing for a more natural, relaxed finish.
A lightweight styling cream or matte pomade is perfect for enhancing volume and shape while keeping the style touchable and effortless. This versatile look works well across both casual and formal settings, offering a polished appearance without appearing too rigid. A comb and a bit of blow-drying can help achieve the right amount of lift and structure for a balanced and timeless finish.
Subtle Side Part with Soft Layers
For a more relaxed and natural aesthetic, this side parted hairstyle incorporates soft layers that enhance movement and flow. The parting is subtle, creating an effortless style that feels sophisticated yet approachable. The hair is slightly tousled, giving off a lived-in, modern look.
A light texturizing spray or mousse is ideal for maintaining flexibility while adding definition to the layers. The haircut works particularly well for men with medium to thick hair, emphasizing natural volume without requiring excessive styling. This effortless approach to the side part is perfect for those who appreciate a stylish yet low-maintenance haircut.
Classic Side Part with Bold Contrast
This hairstyle incorporates classic grooming principles with a contemporary touch. The sharply defined side part enhances the bold contrast between the longer, neatly styled top and the dramatically faded sides. The precise detailing reinforces a clean, structured silhouette that feels fresh yet timeless.
To achieve this sleek look, a strong-hold pomade or wax is used to maintain shape and definition throughout the day. The distinctive contrast between the top and the sides makes this style particularly eye-catching, ideal for men who prefer a sharp, refined haircut that maintains its precision over time.
Urban Edge Side Part with a Contemporary Finish
Combining modern trends with a timeless foundation, this side parted haircut features a structured yet effortless look. The part is clean and defined, separating the voluminous top from the neatly tapered sides. The cut achieves a perfect balance between precision and natural movement, making it highly adaptable for various events and settings.
The use of a volumizing mousse or light styling cream adds lift without making the hair too rigid. This style is particularly flattering for those with naturally thick or wavy hair, as it allows texture to shine while keeping the overall look polished. For best results, a blow dryer and round brush can help create height and structure, ensuring a refined, stylish appearance.
As trends in men’s hairstyling continue to evolve, the side part remains one of the most reliable and adaptable choices. Whether you prefer a sharp, defined look or a more laid-back, textured style, the key to mastering this haircut lies in precision and proper styling. Using the right products, maintaining regular trims, and understanding how to enhance your hair’s natural movement can elevate any side-parted hairstyle. From sleek, professional finishes to relaxed, effortless looks, the side part proves that classic styles never go out of fashion; they simply refine with time.
