Introduction
Some hairstyles feel exciting for a season and then quietly disappear. The side part isn’t one of them. It’s been worn by Hollywood stars, businessmen, soldiers and schoolboys It’s been worn by Hollywood stars, businessmen, soldiers and schoolboys for well over a hundred years, and it still looks just as sharp today, and it still looks just as sharp today.
What makes the side part so lasting is how adaptable it is. You can wear it short or long, slick or messy, with a skin fade or a full beard. It works on straight, wavy and curly hair, and even on thinning hair when it’s styled the right way.
In this guide, you’ll find 15 side part hairstyles for men, from timeless classics to modern twists, along with tips on what to ask your barber and how to style each one at home.
1. The Classic Executive Part
The classic executive part is the side part at its most polished. It’s the hairstyle you picture on a well-dressed man walking into a boardroom: short, tidy sides, a top long enough to comb over, and a clean part that sits exactly where the hair naturally falls.
- Short tapered sides keep the look neat and professional
- A top of around 2 to 3 inches gives enough length to comb over cleanly
- Suits straight and slightly wavy hair best
Ask your barber for a scissor-cut top with a medium taper on the sides, and let them find your natural part by looking at your crown. Parting against your growth pattern is the main reason a side part won’t stay in place.
To style it, apply a pea-sized amount of low-shine pomade to towel-dried hair, comb in the part, then sweep the top across. The finish should look smooth but not wet or greasy.
The classic executive part is a timeless choice for men who want to look confident, capable and effortlessly put together.
2. The Hard Part Fade
The hard part fade takes the traditional side part and gives it a sharp, modern edge. Instead of combing the part in every morning, the barber shaves a thin line into the hair with a trimmer or razor, then pairs it with a faded side for strong contrast.
- The shaved line keeps the part crisp and visible all day
- A skin or mid fade on the sides adds a clean, modern feel
- Works especially well on thick hair that tends to fall out of place
Keep the line thin and natural. A part that’s too wide or cut too far back looks harsh and grows out awkwardly. Ask for the line to follow the direction your hair already parts.
Because the shaved line grows back quickly, it needs a touch-up every one to two weeks. The fade itself usually lasts about three weeks before it starts looking soft.
The hard part fade is ideal for men who want a bold, sharp side part that stays perfect without daily combing.
3. The Textured Side Part
The textured side part is a more relaxed take on the classic look. The part is still there, but the top is styled with movement and separation rather than being combed flat. It feels modern, easygoing and slightly undone in a deliberate way.
- Matte texture gives a natural, lived-in finish
- Looks great on thick, wavy or slightly coarse hair
- Works for both casual weekends and smart-casual offices
Ask your barber to point-cut the top so it has texture built into it. Around 2.5 to 3.5 inches on top gives you plenty to work with, while the sides can be tapered or lightly faded.
For styling, blow-dry the hair roughly in the direction of the part, then work a small amount of matte clay or texture paste through it with your fingers. Skip the comb and just define the part loosely.
The textured side part is perfect for men who love the side part but want it to feel less formal and more natural.
4. The Vintage Hollywood Wave
The vintage Hollywood wave brings back the glamour of 1930s and 1940s film stars. It features a deep side part and a longer top shaped into soft, rolling waves, finished with a smooth shine that feels elegant and classic.
- Deep side part with sculpted waves across the top
- Gives a luxurious, old-school look that stands out
- Best for men with naturally wavy or medium-thick hair
This style needs length, usually 4 to 5 inches on top, with the sides kept shorter and neat. Ask your barber for a longer top with a gentle taper on the sides.
To create the waves, apply a water-based pomade to damp hair, comb in a deep part, and use your fingers and comb to push the hair into gentle S-shaped waves. Let it set before touching it. A light-hold hairspray helps it last through the day or evening.
The vintage Hollywood wave is a stunning choice for weddings, formal events or any man who loves timeless style.
5. The Low Fade Side Part
The low fade side part is a great balance between classic and modern. The fade starts just above the ears and neckline, keeping most of the side length, while the top is left longer and combed into a side part.
- Low fade keeps the sides clean without looking too bold
- Suitable for offices, schools and conservative workplaces
- Works on nearly every hair type and face shape
Ask for a low skin or number 1 fade that blends smoothly into a longer top of around 2 to 3 inches. The subtle fade makes the part stand out while still looking understated.
Style it with a light cream or pomade, comb the part, and sweep the top over. On lazy days, you can simply push it across with your fingers, and it still looks tidy.
The low fade side part is a safe, stylish option for men who want a fresh look that never feels too loud.
6. The Long Flowing Side Part
The long flowing side part is for men who prefer length and movement. The hair is grown out to around 4 to 6 inches or more on top, with a deep side part that lets it fall naturally across the forehead and toward the ear.
- Relaxed, effortless look with lots of movement
- Suits straight and wavy hair with medium to thick density
- Flattering on long and oval face shapes
Longer hair needs a thoughtful cut. Ask your stylist for layers through the top so the hair moves freely instead of sitting heavy and flat. The sides can be kept longer too, or tapered lightly for a cleaner finish.
For styling, spray a little sea salt spray into damp hair, blow-dry it in the direction of the part, and finish with a light cream to control frizz. Tucking one side behind the ear gives it an easy, laid-back look.
The long flowing side part is ideal for men who want a softer, more natural hairstyle with plenty of character.
7. The Pompadour Side Part
The pompadour side part combines two classic styles into one bold look. The front is lifted high and swept back like a pompadour, while a side part adds structure and a sharper, more tailored finish.
- Strong volume at the front for a confident look
- Side part adds definition and balance to the height
- Best for thick, straight or wavy hair
You’ll need around 3 to 4 inches of length at the front, getting slightly shorter toward the crown. The sides can be tapered or faded, depending on how much contrast you want.
Blow-drying is key here. Use a round brush to lift the front upward and back, then apply a medium-hold pomade. Comb in the part, and shape the front into a smooth, rounded lift.
The pompadour side part is perfect for men who want a statement hairstyle with vintage charm and modern polish.
8. The Short Buzz Side Part
The short buzz side part proves you don’t need long hair to wear a side part. The top is clipped short, usually with a number 2 or 3 guard, and a thin line is shaved in to create the part, since the hair is too short to comb into one.
- Extremely low maintenance with no daily styling needed
- The shaved part adds detail to an otherwise simple cut
- Great for hot weather, active lifestyles and busy mornings
Ask your barber for a short buzz on top, a fade or taper on the sides, and a subtle hard part line. Keep the line thin so it looks clean rather than dramatic.
There’s almost nothing to do at home. Just wash and go. The part line will need a quick touch-up every week or two to stay visible.
The short buzz side part is an excellent choice for men who want a clean, sharp look with zero styling effort.
9. The Slick Back Side Part
The slick back side part is sleek, glossy and full of confidence. The hair is combed back and slightly to the side with a defined part, then finished with a high-shine product for a smooth, polished look.
- Smooth, glossy finish that looks refined and bold
- Works for formal events, nights out and professional settings
- Best on straight or wavy hair with medium thickness
You’ll need around 3 to 5 inches on top to slick it back comfortably, with shorter tapered or faded sides. Ask your barber to keep the top length even so it lies flat when combed.
Apply a water-based pomade to damp hair for a shiny finish that washes out easily. Comb in the part, then sweep the hair back and to the side, keeping it smooth and neat.
The slick back side part is perfect for men who want a sharp, classy hairstyle with a touch of old-school glamour.
10. The Wavy Side Part for Beard Lovers
The wavy side part pairs beautifully with a beard. The natural waves on top add softness and movement, while the beard gives the face strength and structure, creating a look that feels balanced and masculine.
- Natural waves on top complement a full or medium beard
- The combination adds balance to long and oval faces
- Works best with naturally wavy hair
Ask your barber for around 3 to 4 inches on top and a taper on the sides that blends naturally into the beard. A smooth transition between the hair and beard makes the whole look feel connected.
For styling, apply a light curl cream or sea salt spray to damp hair and let the waves form naturally. Use your fingers to set the part. Keep the beard trimmed and oiled so both halves of the look stay healthy and neat.
The wavy side part for beard lovers is a great choice for men who want a rugged yet refined style.
11. The High and Tight Side Part
The high and tight side part takes inspiration from military haircuts. The sides are cut very short and high, often close to the skin, while a short top is combed neatly into a side part.
- Strong, disciplined look with a sharp outline
- Very easy to manage with minimal styling
- Suits square, oval and angular face shapes
Ask for a high skin fade or number 1 on the sides, blending into a top of about 1 to 1.5 inches. The top should be long enough to part but short enough to stay neat without much product.
A small amount of light pomade or cream is all you need to comb in the part. Because the sides are so short, plan a trim every two to three weeks to keep the outline sharp.
The high and tight side part is ideal for men who want a clean, commanding look that’s easy to maintain.
12. The Side Part with Undercut
The side part with undercut is all about contrast. The sides are buzzed short with no blending, creating a clear disconnection from the longer top, which is combed into a side part.
- Bold contrast between very short sides and a long top
- Modern, fashion-forward and eye-catching look
- Works best on thick, straight hair
Ask your barber for a disconnected undercut on the sides, usually with a number 1 or 2 guard, and around 3 to 5 inches on top. The sharp line between the two lengths is what gives this style its impact.
Style the top with a medium-hold pomade, comb in the part, and sweep the hair across. You can keep it smooth for a sleek look or push it slightly for more volume.
The side part with undercut is perfect for men who want a modern, confident style that stands out.
13. The Mid-Century Ivy League
The mid-century Ivy League brings back the neat, preppy style of 1950s and 1960s college campuses. It’s a short, polished haircut with just enough length on top to create a clean side part.
- Neat, preppy look with a timeless feel
- Short enough to be easy, long enough to style
- Suits straight and slightly wavy hair
Ask for a longer crew cut, with about 1 to 2 inches on top and tapered sides. The front should be slightly longer so you can part and sweep it to the side.
Style it with a small amount of light pomade or cream, comb in the part, and lift the front slightly. It looks just as good with a crisp shirt as it does with a casual t-shirt.
The mid-century Ivy League is perfect for men who love a classic, well-groomed look with a hint of vintage style.
14. The Curly Side Part
The curly side part shows that curly hair and side parts can go together beautifully. Instead of forcing the curls flat, this style embraces the natural texture while still keeping a clear side part.
- Shows off natural curls with a neat structure
- Adds volume and shape to the top of the head
- Works best on loose to medium curls
Ask your barber to leave around 3 to 4 inches on top and cut the curls dry if possible, since curly hair shrinks when it dries. A taper on the sides keeps the look clean.
Apply curl cream or leave-in conditioner to wet hair, then define the part with your fingers instead of a comb. Let it air-dry or use a diffuser. Avoid brushing dry curls, as it causes frizz.
The curly side part is a great choice for men who want a stylish, structured look without losing their natural texture.
15. The Skinny Side Part for Thin Hair
The skinny side part is designed to help thin or fine hair look fuller. It uses a slightly deeper part, shorter sides and light styling to create the illusion of more volume and thickness.
- Deeper part adds lift and makes the top look fuller
- Short sides create contrast that makes the top appear thicker
- Ideal for men with fine or thinning hair
Keep the top at around 2 to 3 inches. Longer hair can weigh fine hair down and make it look flat. Ask for tapered or faded sides to boost contrast.
Use a matte, lightweight product like a styling powder or light paste. Avoid heavy, shiny pomades, since they clump the hair and show more scalp. Blow-drying the hair up at the roots adds extra lift.
The skinny side part is a smart, flattering option for men who want a sharp style that makes the most of fine hair.
Conclusion
The side part has lasted for decades because it adapts to almost any man and any occasion. If you want something professional, the classic executive part and mid-century Ivy League are always safe choices. For a modern edge, try the hard part fade or the side part with undercut. And if you have curly, wavy or thinning hair, there’s a side part here built for you too.
Whichever style you choose, the basics make a big difference: find your natural part, use the right product for your hair type, and keep up with regular trims. Done right, a side part never looks out of place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my natural side part?
Comb your wet hair straight back, then push it forward gently with your palm. The hair will split naturally at the spot where it wants to part. You can also check your crown. The direction your hair swirls there can give you a clue about which side it wants to fall.
Which side should I part my hair on?
Most men part on the side where the hair naturally falls. If you have no strong preference. Most men part on the side where the hair naturally falls. If you have no strong preference, try both and see which one suits your face and hair better.
Is a side part good for thin hair?
Yes. A slightly deeper side part with short sides and a matte product can make thin hair look fuller. Avoid heavy, shiny products that weigh the hair down.
What’s the difference between a hard part and a regular side part?
A regular side part is combed in each day. A hard part is a thin line shaved in by a barber, which keeps the part sharp without daily combing but needs touch-ups every one to two weeks.
What product is best for a side part?
For a polished finish, use a low- or medium-shine pomade. For a natural or textured look, go with a matte clay or paste. Curly hair does best with a curl cream.
