13 Side Part Hairstyles That Are Defining 2026
The side part is having a well-deserved revival in 2026 — not as a throwback, but as a modern reinvention. It’s no longer a strict hairstyle rule; it’s a style choice that reflects your personality, vibe, and facial features. Whether you’re embracing your natural texture or creating something sleek and structured, the side part offers versatility, subtle drama, and a refreshing take on everyday styling.
Unlike the middle part, which gives symmetry, the side part introduces contrast and softness, drawing attention to your eyes, cheekbones, or jawline. It’s feminine, confident, and easy to adapt — which is why so many women are rediscovering it this year. Here are 13 of the most beautiful, wearable, and expressive side part hairstyles trending in 2026.
1. Deep Side Part with Loose Waves
This hairstyle combines effortless beauty with red-carpet glam. A deep side part paired with soft, loose waves creates a flattering silhouette that suits almost every face shape. The part adds volume at the roots on one side, while the waves create natural movement and dimension throughout the length of your hair. This style works well for medium to long hair and can be achieved using a curling wand or overnight braids. It’s perfect for romantic evenings, events, or just when you want to feel your most polished self without trying too hard.
2. Sleek Side Part Ponytail
The sleek side part ponytail is the ultimate power look — clean, minimalist, and sharp. With a deep side part and a low or mid ponytail at the back, this hairstyle gives structure and sophistication. It highlights your facial features and works beautifully with tailored outfits, making it ideal for business meetings, formal events, or date nights. For extra polish, use a flat iron to straighten the lengths and a shine serum or styling gel to smooth flyaways. It’s a timeless look that radiates confidence with every step.
3. Side Part Bob
The bob is already a classic haircut, but adding a side part gives it a chic twist. Whether your bob is blunt, angled, or softly layered, shifting your part to one side creates softness around the face and adds a modern edge. It’s especially flattering for oval, heart-shaped, and square faces, as it helps balance strong features. The side part bob can be styled sleek and straight for a more polished look or tousled with texture for a relaxed, lived-in feel. This style is perfect for women who want a manageable, everyday haircut with a fashionable punch.
4. Side Swept Curls
If you’re working with natural curls or styling them yourself, sweeping them all to one side offers an effortlessly romantic and voluminous look. It’s a great way to highlight your curls while framing the face beautifully. This hairstyle is particularly stunning when worn with an off-the-shoulder top or dress, as it brings all the focus to your hair and neckline. It can also be pinned on one side for a more controlled finish. Great for both everyday styling and formal events, side swept curls are elegant without being overly structured.
5. Side Part with Volume at the Crown
Channeling a bit of retro glam, this style pairs a side part with lifted volume at the crown — and it’s making a big return in 2026. It’s a flattering option for women with fine or flat hair who want a bit of lift without relying on too many products. The volume adds height and elongates the face, while the side part softens the overall look. Use a volumizing mousse or root spray, then tease the crown gently and smooth the top layer. This hairstyle pairs well with vintage fashion or bold makeup and always looks photo-ready.
6. Side Part Pixie Cut
Short hair doesn’t mean fewer styling options — in fact, a side part can completely transform a pixie cut. It adds direction and dimension, allowing for asymmetry that flatters your bone structure. For round faces, a side part in a pixie can elongate and slim the profile, while for angular faces, it softens the jawline. This cut works well with straight or slightly wavy textures and can be styled messy, slicked back, or with finger waves for vintage charm. It’s edgy, empowering, and beautifully low maintenance.
7. Messy Side Part Lob
The long bob — also known as the lob — remains a favorite because of its flexibility, and with a messy side part, it gets a cool-girl upgrade. This look is effortlessly stylish, perfect for women who want something in-between polished and casual. The messy part adds personality, while the tousled layers create volume and bounce. Use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo to create lift and a bit of grit. Whether you’re running errands or heading to brunch, this style makes you look like you woke up stylish (even if you didn’t).
8. Braided Side Part
Looking for something fun and detailed? The braided side part is a creative way to elevate your hairstyle. Whether it’s a French braid that starts along the part and blends into your hair or a side braid that sweeps down the shoulder, this look adds interest and charm. It’s especially popular for festivals, summer parties, or when you want to play with your hair without committing to a full updo. It also works as a protective style for textured hair, keeping strands in place while adding a chic flair.
9. Side Part with Hair Accessories
Hair accessories are making waves again in 2026, and when paired with a side part, they become even more eye-catching. Think pearl pins, rhinestone clips, metallic barrettes, or even minimalist slides — placed on the smaller side of the part to balance the volume. It’s a subtle yet striking way to express your personality. This style works on any hair length or texture and is a simple solution for turning a regular day into something a little more stylish and fun.
10. Wet Look Side Part
For women who love high-fashion, editorial-inspired styles, the wet look side part is sleek, bold, and commanding. Achieved with styling gel or mousse, the hair is combed neatly with a side part and smoothed to hug the shape of the head. It’s dramatic and works beautifully with statement earrings or minimalist outfits. This look is not for the faint of heart — it’s powerful, directional, and ideal for special events, photo shoots, or when you just want to turn heads.
FAQs
Are side part hairstyles flattering for all face shapes?
Yes, side parts are incredibly adaptable. They can be customized to balance any face shape — deep side parts add structure to round faces, while softer side parts soften angular features. It’s one of the most universally flattering styling options.
Can I switch from a middle part to a side part easily?
Absolutely. You might need to train your hair to stay in place at first, especially if you’ve worn a middle part for a long time. Use a little heat and a styling product to help it stay, and your new part will feel natural in no time.
Which side part style is best for fine hair?
The side part with crown volume, the messy lob, or the bob are great options for fine hair. These styles add lift, shape, and movement without making hair look flat or weighed down.
Do side parts work with curly or textured hair?
Definitely. Side parts can look stunning with curly and textured hair — they help define the shape and allow curls to fall in a flattering, face-framing way. Just make sure the part works with your natural growth pattern for the best result.
Are side parts still trending in 2026?
Yes — and more than ever, it’s about personalization. Instead of following strict trends, 2026 is all about choosing what feels good. Side parts are being celebrated for their elegance, versatility, and ease of wear.
Conclusion
Side parts in 2026 aren’t about following old beauty standards — they’re about breaking them in favor of self-expression and simplicity. Whether you’re going for a casual vibe, something sleek and formal, or full-on fashion, the side part offers structure, style, and softness all in one.
What makes this trend truly special is its adaptability. It doesn’t matter if you have long or short hair, curls or straight strands — there’s a side part hairstyle that can enhance your look and boost your confidence. So go ahead, move your part, shift your perspective, and let your hair tell your story.
