The side part is the quintessential gentleman’s hairstyle, and there are countless variations that are every bit as stylish as the original.
If you look at the evolution of men’s hairstyles since the turn of the 20th century, you’ll find that the side part keeps showing up over the decades. While it’s closely associated with the ‘40s and ‘50s, the side part has never really gone out of style.
Today, the term “side part” can be used to describe the classic retro style, but it can also be used to describe any hairstyle that incorporates a side part. There are hundreds if not thousands of great hairstyles that use side parts, and in this article, we’re going to look at 12 amazing side part haircuts for men.
The Best Side Part Haircuts for Men
We’re going to start with the shortest hairstyle and work our way up to the longest. Let’s get started!
#1: Hard Part
Kicking off the list is perhaps the best example of the power of the side part. This hairstyle is as simple as it gets: a hard part shaved into the side of a short Caesar cut (where all the hair is cut or buzzed to the same length).
Despite its simplicity, this haircut is undeniably stylish. The part is pretty much the entire style, which goes to show how effective the side part can be in adding flair to an otherwise plain hairstyle.
It’s a nice touch that adds serious class and elegance to what is essentially a buzz cut. (Pro tip: You can add a side part or hard part to most military hairstyles to make them look more refined and intentional.)
#2: Don Draper Haircut
An article about the side part wouldn’t be complete without a look at Don Draper’s iconic hairstyle. A suave, confident hairstyle that matches the character’s personality, this tight side part was obviously inspired by midcentury businessman’s haircuts.
This is probably what you think of when you think “side part.” It’s a simple formula: 3-4 inches on top and about 1 inch on the sides and back. (Pro tip: Ask your barber or stylist to only use scissors, as this style doesn’t necessitate clippers.)
Then grab your favorite pomade, gel, or clay, and apply small amounts until the hair retains its form. Brush to create the part and style as desired.
This side part hairstyle is the shortest and simplest on this list, but it’s also the most popular. It may not help you make a million bucks, but it will make you feel like a million bucks!
#3: Side Swept for Thin Hair
If you have thin hair, you may have struggled to find a hairstyle that works with your hair type. If so, this side part haircut is for you.
This short yet suave style uses the texture of thin hair to create a gentle wave throughout the hair. Instead of relying on volume, this style relies on the hair’s natural tendency to fall to the side.
That’s why it looks so effortless––the style isn’t trying to beat the hair into submission. It’s going with the flow.
The side part itself is sharp and tidy, evoking the classic ‘50s look. The tightly combed sides contrast with the wavy top for a clean, mature style that will look great on any guy.
#4: Wavy & Short Side Part
While the classic side part is usually associated with straight hair, you can achieve some amazing side part styles with wavy or curly hair. This wavy side part is a prime example of that.
One of the coolest things about this style is that the waves flow naturally from the side part. It’s a satisfyingly stylish look that’s classy yet casual. This would be a great choice for work or school, but it’s also fitting for nights out.
For the best results, you’ll want to use a bit of product to make sure your hair stays in place all day. A water-based pomade like Suavecito Original Hold or Imperial Classic will make sure your hair retains its form while also providing a bit of that retro ‘50s shine.
#5: Slick & Casual
As you saw with the previous style, the side part is one of the few hairstyles that can toe the line of formal and casual. Here’s another style that’s able to perform that balancing act with ease.
This haircut is on the longer side, creating a sense of fullness. The more prominent part keeps the hair from appearing too dense and also directs the eye upward toward the top.
One of the perks of this style is that it’ll always look nice and clean. If you look closely, you can see that some of the hair on top is a bit tousled, but it looks tidier than it really is.
If you need a truly versatile haircut that you can wear many different ways, then you should definitely consider this long side part.
#6: Side Part with Quiff
Side part hairstyles were traditionally quite short, but in recent years, longer side part cuts have become popular. Some of these can get really long (see below), but many are medium-length styles that add a contemporary twist on the classic side part, and this dapper style is a great example of that.
With long, full sides and a noticeable quiff, this side part haircut is noticeably longer than the styles we’ve seen so far. At the same time, its neatness makes it look shorter than it really is. It’s a great choice for guys who prefer medium length hair but want to look more mature.
There are many ways you can approach the top of the hair, too. You can style it into a quiff as shown here, brush it to the side, slick it back, or tousle it. The sky’s the limit!
#7: Medium Length for Fine Hair
If you have straight, fine hair, you’ve probably had hairstyle difficulty in the past. And if that’s the case, then the side part is your friend. It’s easy to achieve with a bit of styling, and it’ll add a ton of dimension to your hair.
There’s no huge secret here––the side part really looks this good. It’s another medium length style that offers an enticing combination of texture and simplicity.
Here, the hair is grown out a bit, so you will need a bit of product to maintain that volume and structure all day long. For fine or thin hair, a creamier product like a hair cream or soft pomade is ideal.
#8: Frizzy Side Part
We often think of frizzy hair as a bad thing, but if you have frizzy hair in the right places, it can give you that much-desired “just messy enough” look.
This is intentional messiness at its best. Some locks of hair are out of place, but the hair doesn’t appear disheveled or sloppy. The hair is simply allowed to behave naturally, which makes this style really appealing.
Because of its fullness, this style is also one of the best side part haircuts for bearded men. The longer sides seamlessly connect with the sideburns and upper beard, providing a smooth transition from hair to beard.
#9: Side Part for Asian Hair
Asian hair is notorious for both its versatility and its toughness. Asian guys can rock virtually any hairstyle, but sometimes their hair has to be beaten into submission. Thankfully, the side part is one of those styles that’s relatively easy to achieve without much effort, and that’s true for Asian hair as well.
Thicker hair tends to hold volume pretty well, and this side part style is taking full advantage of that. The hair is brushed to the side, which activates the hair and results in a voluminous quiff. The sides and back are kept short as usual.
If you have ridiculously tough, thick, or coarse hair, then you might need to invest in a strong hold pomade or clay. As always, apply in small amounts until you reach the desired level of hold.
#10: Pompadour w/Subtle Side Part
The pompadour is another evocative style from the ‘50s that goes hand in hand with the side part. Of course, it’s undergone some changes over the years. For a mix of traditional and modern, check out this long pompadour that’s just full of swagger.
This pomp is reminiscent of the classic Elvis hairstyle, but it has a personality all its own. Since the hair is quite long (at least 5-6 inches), it makes for an eye-catching pompadour that will rival any Instagram quiff. This is also another excellent option for guys with beards.
Again, some strong hold product may be needed here if you have particularly stubborn hair. With that in mind, this specific style is best for straighter, thicker hair.
#11: Swooped Up Side Part Fade
Most of the side part haircuts for men we’ve looked at so far are either short or medium-length styles. Now let’s take a look at some longer styles, starting with this swooping, high-volume look.
This is a serious departure from the classic side part, but it screams contemporary style. Loose and flowing, this haircut has a Mediterranean flair to it that exudes confidence.
The fade on the sides is another fashionable touch that separates this from traditional side part styles. The combination of a side part and fade is a more recent pairing, and it looks great when done well. A clean part and even fade will give you the best results.
#12: Overhanging Side Part
Finally, let’s look at this overhanging style that is quite possibly the most unique side part haircut on this list.
There are two elements that set this hairstyle apart: the sleek part and the overhanging hair. The juxtaposition of messy hair on one side and neat hair on the other creates texture and movement in a way few other hairstyles can.
This is an extremely asymmetrical look, so it’s definitely not for everyone. However, if you’re into trendier styles and longer hair, this is worth your consideration.
Conclusion
There you have it: our 12 favorite side part haircuts for men. The side part is such a versatile haircut, and it’s a great choice if you’re in need of a simple yet stylish look.
Which of these side part hairstyles was your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
