The side part haircut has stood the test of time as one of the most versatile men’s hairstyles. From its classic roots to its modern textured variations, this look adapts to different hair types, face shapes, and lifestyles. Whether you’re aiming for sharp professionalism or laid-back casual style, the side part offers endless possibilities.
The side part splits hair to one side with a visible or natural line, a tidy top, and tapered or faded sides. It works for school, office, and events. It fits straight, wavy, and curly hair. Faces: oval (any version), square (calm temples), round (add height), oblong (shorter top, lower fade). Keep the crown flat, set with warm air, finish with a cool shot, and trim every 3–5 weeks.
In this guide, you will learn what a side part haircut is, where to place the line, how to talk to your barber, and 15 winning variations with simple tips.
Table of Contents
What Is a Side Part Haircut?
A side part is a clean split to the left or right that guides the top across. Sides are tapered or faded so the outline stays slim. You can wear it textured for a natural look or slick for a formal event. Keep the crown flat so the profile looks neat in photos and in bright light.
Why It Works
It adds shape, trims side width, and gives clear direction with little effort. It pairs with suits, tees, and uniforms. It resets fast after the gym or a cap. You can change the finish by switching product: cream or clay for texture, pomade for shine.
Face Shapes and Hair Types
Oval: any style works, try a soft texture on top.
Square: keep temples calm with a low or mid fade.
Round: add a touch of height and keep sides tighter.
Oblong: shorter top and lower fade for balance.
Straight hair: add light texture so it does not look flat.
Wavy hair: let the bend show, keep the crown smooth.
Curly hair: reduce crown bulk and define the part line.
Edges and Details
Choose a natural part or a hard part (a short shaved line).
Pick low, mid, or high fade or a classic taper.
Optional line-up at the forehead and temples.
Neckline natural for soft grow out or squared for crisp edges.
Ask your barber to note guard numbers so you can repeat the look.
15 Stylish Side Part Haircut Variations
Below are 15 variations of the side part hairstyle to suit different personalities, lifestyles, and grooming preferences. Each description highlights why it works and who it is best for.
1. Classic Side Part Haircut
The classic side part haircut is the foundation of this timeless style. Defined by a clean parting line and neatly combed hair, it’s perfect for men who value sophistication and professionalism. The sides are usually tapered or kept short, while the top remains slightly longer for definition. This look is especially popular among business professionals and men who prefer a polished, traditional hairstyle that requires minimal effort yet always makes a lasting impression.
Timeless and neat. Top flows to one side, crown lies flat, and sides are tapered for soft edges. It works at school, the office, and formal events. Keep the part line clear, the neckline tidy, and the sideburns clean. A small lift at the front sharpens the profile without heavy styling.
2. Side Part Haircut Low Fade
A side part haircut with a low fade gives the classic version a modern upgrade. The fade starts low near the ears and blends gradually into the longer top section. This creates a sharp, clean contrast without being too dramatic. It’s an excellent choice for men who want to keep their hairstyle versatile formal enough for office environments, yet stylish enough for social outings. This variation works especially well with straight or slightly wavy hair textures.
Subtle contrast around the ear and nape. Glasses and headsets sit clean. The outline grows out smoothly, which helps busy weeks. Keep the front lightly lifted and the crown flat. It is a safe pick for offices and first-time fades.
3. Medium Length Side Part Haircut
The medium length side part haircut allows more freedom for styling and texture. With longer hair on top, men can experiment with volume, waves, or even a natural matte look. This style is often preferred by men who want their hairstyle to look effortlessly modern without appearing too rigid. The extra length also provides flexibility, letting you switch between a formal slicked side part and a more relaxed, casual finish for weekends.
4. Short Side Part Haircut
The short side part haircut is clean, low-maintenance, and practical. With the top kept short and the sides closely trimmed, this version emphasizes neatness and sharpness. It’s especially popular among men with busy schedules who prefer a professional look without spending much time styling. Despite its simplicity, the short side part maintains an air of sophistication, making it suitable for men across all professions and age groups who appreciate understated elegance.
5. Textured Side Part Haircut
Adding layers or choppier cuts creates a textured side part haircut, which brings a more modern and relaxed vibe to the style. Unlike the classic slicked look, this version embraces movement and natural flow. Textured side parts work especially well for men with thicker hair, as the added dimension prevents the style from appearing flat. It’s a great choice for men in creative fields who want to balance professionalism with a more expressive, youthful hairstyle.
Choppy, soft separation on top with tidy sides. It looks natural, not spiky. Dry from roots to ends for shape, then hand-rake once. This is the everyday version that resets fast after a cap or workout.
6. Side Part Haircut with High Fade
The side part haircut with high fade is one of the boldest variations. The high fade creates a strong contrast by leaving the sides very short, almost skin-tight, while the top remains long enough to define the part. This creates a sharp, edgy appearance that is particularly popular among younger men and those who like a statement look. It pairs well with streetwear fashion and works with both straight and slightly wavy hair types.
Maximum contrast and cooling. The blend starts near the temple and drops fast, which keeps side width down. Plan regular tidy-ups. Keep the top modest so the silhouette stays clean, not top-heavy.
7. Slicked Side Part Haircuts
The slicked side part haircut has a refined, vintage feel that dates back to Hollywood’s golden age. By using pomade or gel, the hair is combed flat with a clear parting line, creating a sleek and formal appearance. This look is ideal for special events, weddings, or professional settings where elegance is required. The slicked side part works best on men with straight or fine hair and gives off an aura of confidence and sophistication.
Use a comb and a small amount of pomade. Keep the crown smooth and the part line crisp. Low or mid sides keep the look formal but not harsh. Ideal for weddings, black-tie events, and photos.
8. Side Part Haircut with Taper Fade
The taper fade side part haircut combines subtle fading with traditional structure. The taper fade blends smoothly from short sides into the longer top, giving the haircut a clean and balanced finish. This variation is versatile, working equally well in a business setting or a casual environment. The taper fade side part is especially flattering for men with oval or square face shapes, as it enhances facial structure while keeping the overall look polished.
9. Ivy League Side Part Hairstyles
The Ivy League side part hairstyles blends preppy style with timeless grooming. With slightly longer hair on top styled neatly to the side, and sides that are tapered or faded, this haircut projects sophistication and confidence. Often seen on college campuses and corporate settings alike, it embodies a classic American aesthetic. This variation is perfect for men who want a clean, polished look without the rigidity of a traditional business cut.
A touch more length on top with a soft taper at the sides. Side-sweep the front for a boardroom-ready look. The crown stays flat and the neckline clean for easy photos.
10. Side Part Haircuts for Curly Hair
Men with curls can embrace the side part haircut for curly hair to combine structure with natural texture. The part helps control volume while allowing curls to fall neatly to one side, creating a balanced yet stylish appearance. With the right curl cream or styling product, this haircut can highlight natural curls without making them look unruly. It’s a versatile style that adds personality while still maintaining a clean, fashionable vibe.
Shorten bulk at the crown and define the part with the comb. Keep sides tight so curls frame the face, not widen it. Diffuse on low heat and avoid brushing when dry.
11. Side Part Pompadour
The side part pompadour merges two classic hairstyles into one bold variation. The pompadour adds volume and height at the front, while the side part ensures structure and balance. This style works best with medium to long hair on top and requires strong-hold styling products for maximum effect. It’s an excellent choice for men who want a more dramatic, fashion-forward version of the side part that stands out in social and professional settings alike.
12. Hard Part Side Part Haircut
The hard part side haircut adds sharpness by carving a clean line into the scalp with a razor. This accentuates the part and creates strong contrast between the top and sides. The hard part works well with fades or tapers, adding an extra touch of detail to the overall style. It’s especially popular among men who want a modern, confident appearance and aren’t afraid of a bold, eye-catching hairstyle that emphasizes precision.
A shaved part line makes the split very clear. Sides can be low or mid fade for a sharp frame. The top stays tidy so the line stands out in photos. Re-etch the line as it grows. Great for men who want a bold, defined part with a fast morning routine.
13. Side Part Undercut
The side part undercut is a modern variation that creates strong contrast between the long top and very short sides. By disconnecting the sides from the top, the undercut emphasizes the part and allows for more styling creativity. This style works best for men who like fashion-forward looks and don’t mind standing out. With the right styling products, the side part undercut can be worn sleek for formal events or messy for casual occasions.
Disconnected sides for a bold profile while the top still follows the part. Keep edges clean so the shape feels intentional. Great for content shoots and trend-forward settings.
14. Side Part with Quaff
The side part quaff combines volume with structure. The front of the hair is styled upward into a quaff, while the rest is neatly parted to the side. This creates a youthful, energetic appearance while still keeping a clean-cut finish. The side part quaff works well with medium-length hair and is popular among men who want to add height and personality to their style. It’s a balanced choice that blends casual charm with professional appeal.
15. Messy Side Part Haircut
The messy side part haircut embraces a relaxed, casual aesthetic while still maintaining the defining part. Unlike sleek versions, this variation uses texture products to create a tousled, effortless appearance. It’s perfect for men who want to project a laid-back yet stylish vibe. The messy side part is versatile enough for weekends, casual outings, and creative workplaces, making it a go-to option for those who prefer easy styling without sacrificing personality.
16. Side Part with Mid Fade
Balanced contrast that narrows the temple. The top remains the hero while the sides stay lean. It reads crisp in bright light and works across straight and wavy hair. Good for square faces that want a leaner profile.
17. Wavy Side Part
Let waves show on top and keep the crown flat. Low or mid fade trims temple width so the outline does not swell. Set with a cool shot so the bend holds without crunch.
18. Comb-Over Side Part
More length and lift, parted clean to one side. Keep sides low or mid to support the shape. Use a medium hold to keep the front set without heavy shine.
Barber Script
Side part haircut. Keep the top [length] with light texture [or slick finish]. Create a [natural or hard] part on the [left/right]. Sides [low/mid/high fade or classic taper]. Debulk the crown so it lies flat. Neckline [natural or squared], sideburns tidy. Please note guard numbers so I can repeat this next time.
Quick Styling Steps
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Towel-dry to damp.
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Comb in the part where you want it.
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Dry from roots following the part to set direction.
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Use a cool shot to lock the front.
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Finish with cream or clay for texture, pomade for sleek.
Maintenance Plan
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Trim every 3–5 weeks to refresh the blend and part line.
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Tidy neckline and sideburns weekly if you like a very clean frame.
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Re-etch a hard part when it softens.
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After workouts, rinse, comb the part, and quick dry to reset.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
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Part too wide: comb a thinner line and avoid over-shaving.
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Crown puff: ask for light debulking and dry that zone flat.
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Sides swell: lower the fade or choose a taper to calm width.
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Front drops: lift at roots while drying, then cool shot to set.
CONCLUSIONS
The men’s side part haircuts have proven to be one of the most adaptable styles in men’s grooming. Whether you prefer the formality of a classic side part haircut men, the modern edge of a side part haircut low fade, or the relaxed vibe of a messy side part haircut, there’s a version that fits every personality and lifestyle.
By understanding the different variations and choosing the one that works with your hair type and face shape, you’ll find the side part to be a reliable, stylish choice that never goes out of fashion.
