The side part is the ultimate gentlemen’s haircut, and there are many variations that are just as cool as the original.
If you look at the history of men’s haircuts from the early 20th century, you’ll see the side part pop up again and again over the decades. It’s closely associated with the 40s and 50s, but the side part has never really gone out of style.
Today, the term “side part” refers to the classic retro style but can also refer to any haircut with a side part. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of great side-part haircuts. In this article, we’re going to look at 12 awesome side-part haircuts for men that show off the versatility and timelessness of this classic look.
12 Side Part Haircuts for Men
We’re going to start with the shortest and work our way up to the longest. Let’s get started!
1. Hard Part
First up is the ultimate example of the side part. The hard part 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 cool. The part is basically the whole point of the style, showing how the side part can add flair to an otherwise boring haircut. I’ve always liked how a defined part can make a look feel more put together and intentional.
A Little Bit of Sophistication
The hard part adds class and elegance to what is essentially a buzz cut. It’s a great option for those who want low-maintenance haircuts but still want to look sharp. The clean lines of the hard part create a nice contrast to the uniform length of the Caesar cut, making it a great choice for men who want a no-fuss but stylish look.
This haircut works for both casual and formal occasions, so it’s a versatile choice for many men. Whether you’re going to the office, out with friends, or to a formal event, the hard part can adapt to the occasion. I like it with a well-groomed beard or stubble; it looks great and adds a bit of ruggedness.
Styling Tips
If you’re going for this style, here’s a tip: add a side or hard part to most military haircuts to make them look more polished and intentional. This small detail can transform a standard cut into something tailored and sophisticated. The hard part can also be customized to your face shape; a deeper part can elongate rounder faces, and a more subtle part can soften angular features.
Maintenance
The hard part is easy to maintain, but you’ll need to visit the barber regularly to keep the lines sharp and clean. I recommend asking your barber to use clippers for the hard part so it’s precise and defined. For styling, a light pomade or styling cream will help keep the hair in place without making it look too stiff or shiny. I like a matte-finish product myself, as it gives a more natural look while still holding.
2. Don Draper Haircut
An article about the side part wouldn’t be complete without a look at Don Draper’s haircut. This is the epitome of suave and confident. This haircut is the midcentury businessman.
The Classic
When you think of a classic side part, this is probably the haircut that comes to mind. The formula is simple but effective: 3-4 inches on top, 1 inch on the sides and back. This is clean and polished, timeless and versatile.
Tip: When getting this cut, ask your barber or stylist to use only scissors. This will give a softer, more natural finish, as clippers can sometimes create harsh lines that don’t align with the classic look of the Don Draper style.
Styling Your Don Draper
To style your Don Draper look, grab your favorite pomade, gel, or clay. Start with a small amount and apply evenly throughout your hair until it sets. I like to use a medium-hold product for a balance of flexibility and structure.
Once the product is in use, a brush is used to create the part and style as desired. The key is to keep the top neat and allow for some movement. I like to use a fine-tooth comb to create the part and a brush to distribute the product.
The Don Draper Appeal
This is the shortest and simplest cut on this list, but it’s also one of the most popular. Its clean lines and classic look make it suitable for everything from business meetings to casual outings. I’ve noticed many men go for this style because it’s confident, professional, and a go-to for those who want to make an impression.
While the Don Draper haircut won’t make you a millionaire, it will make you feel like one! There’s something about wearing a classic haircut that’s stood the test of time. It’s a reminder that sometimes less is more, and a well-executed side part can lift your whole look.
3. Side Swept for Thin Hair
If you have thin hair, you may have struggled to find a haircut that works with your hair type. If so, this side-swept haircut is for you. It is designed to enhance the natural texture of thin hair and make it look stylish and low-maintenance.
Natural Texture
This short and sleek style uses the texture of thin hair to create a gentle wave throughout the hair. Instead of relying on volume, this haircut lets the hair fall to the side. I find this approach makes styling easier and looks more relaxed and undone.
The beauty of the side-swept style is its simplicity. It looks effortless because the haircut doesn’t try to force the hair into a shape; it just flows with its natural texture. This makes it a great choice for those who want to look polished without the hassle of heavy products or complicated techniques.
Classic
The side part is sharp and neat, a classic 50s look that many men love. This nostalgic touch adds sophistication to the overall style. The combed sides look great against the wavy top and will suit any guy.
Styling Tips
To get the side-swept look for thin hair, start with clean, damp hair. Apply a light styling cream or mousse to add texture without weighing the hair down. I like to use a product with a light hold, as this will help maintain the natural wave without making the hair feel stiff.
Once the product is in use, a comb creates the side part. Then, use your fingers to gently tousle the top section of your hair to encourage the natural wave. For added definition, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting to shape the hair while maintaining its texture.
4. Wavy & Short Side Part
The classic side part is usually associated with straight hair, but you can get some great side part styles with wavy or curly hair. The wavy side part is a great example of how versatile this style is. You can have textured hair that still looks polished.
Natural Waves
One of the best things about this style is the waves flow from the side part. It’s a stylish look that’s both classy and casual.
The wavy side part is great because it shows off the hair’s texture without needing to be styled too much. It’s an excellent choice for men who want to look laid-back but still put together. The waves add character and dimension and give the style a little something extra that sets it apart from the classic side part.
Styling Tips
For best results, you’ll want to use a bit of product to keep your hair in place all day. A water-based pomade like Suavecito Original Hold or Imperial Classic is perfect for this style. These products have strong hold but flexibility, so your hair can move naturally without feeling stiff or crunchy.
To style, start with damp hair and apply a small amount of pomade all over. Use your fingers to create the side part and let the waves fall naturally. I like to use a comb to define the part, but be careful not to disrupt the waves too much. Once you have your desired look, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting to set the style and add volume.
5. Slick & Casual
As you saw with the previous style, the side part is one of the few styles that can be both formal and casual. Here’s another style that does that seamlessly: the slick and casual side part.
Balanced Look
This haircut is on the longer side, creating fullness and body in the hair. The more defined part helps to prevent the hair from looking too dense and directs the eye upwards to the top. I like this style for medium to thick hair as it allows movement but still looks polished.
One of the best things about this style is that it always looks clean. The slicked-back nature of the style gives it a sophisticated look, so it’s suitable for both business and casual wear. If you look closely, you can see some of the hair on top is a bit tousled, but it still looks cleaner than it is. That’s what makes the slick and casual side part so fantastic; it’s the perfect balance of relaxed and refined.
Styling Versatility
If you want a haircut that can be worn in many ways, then you should definitely consider this long side part. It can be styled with the product for a more polished look or left a bit tousled for a more laid-back look. I love how this versatility allows you to adapt your style to your mood or the occasion.
For styling, a lightweight gel or cream will help achieve the slicked-back look without weighing the hair down. I recommend a medium-hold product, which will allow for some movement and keep the hair in place. To style, apply the product to damp hair, comb it back and to the side to create the part, and finish with a blow dryer on a low setting to add volume and set the style for the day.
6. Side Part with Quiff
Side part styles were always short, but in recent years, longer side part styles have become popular. Some of these styles can get really long (you’ll see that in the next sections), but many are medium-length styles that put a modern twist on the classic side part. The side part with a quiff is a great example of that.
Dapper Look
With long, full sides and a noticeable quiff, this side-part haircut is longer than the styles we’ve seen so far. The quiff adds height and volume, creating a striking silhouette. At the same time, it’s neat, making it look shorter than it is, which is a clever trick for those who want to look polished without sacrificing length. I like this style for men with medium-length hair who want to look mature and sophisticated.
Styling Options
One of the best things about the side part with quiff is the styling options. You can do many things with the top of your hair—endless possibilities! This flexibility allows you to change your style based on the occasion or mood, so it’s great for those who like experimenting with their hair.
For styling, a strong-hold pomade or mousse will work well to achieve the quiff. I recommend applying the product to damp hair and blow drying to lift the quiff while directing the hair into place. This will add height and help the style last all day.
7. Medium Length for Fine Hair
If you have straight, fine hair, you’ve probably struggled to find a style that suits you. If that’s the case, then the side part is your friend. It’s easy to do with a bit of styling and will add tons of dimension to your hair, making it look fuller and more vibrant.
The Magic of the Side Part
There’s no big secret here—the side part really is that good. This medium-length style is a great combination of texture and simplicity for men with fine hair. The side part creates a visual separation that adds depth, making the hair look more voluminous. I’ve found that a well-done side part can transform fine hair into a polished and sophisticated look.
Styling for Volume
In this style, the hair is grown out a bit, so you’ll need some product to keep that volume and structure all day. For fine or thin hair, I recommend using a creamier product like a hair cream or soft pomade. These products will give a light hold without weighing the hair down, so you can move while the style stays in place.
To style, start with clean, dry hair. Apply a small amount of your chosen product all over your hair, focusing on the roots to lift and add volume. Then, a comb is used to create a sharp side part and direct the hair to one side. I find that using my fingers to tousle the hair slightly adds a more relaxed natural finish, which is great for everyday wear.
8. Frizzy Side Part
We often think of frizzy hair as bad, but if you have it in the right places, it can give you that much-desired “just messy enough” look. The frizzy side part accepts your hair’s natural texture, so it looks relaxed and stylish.
Intentional Messiness
This style is intentional messiness at its best. Some hair is out of place, but overall, it doesn’t look disheveled or sloppy. Instead, hair is just allowed to be itself, which makes this style really cool. I find this approach to styling can be liberating, as it makes you accept your hair’s natural texture rather than trying to shape it into a specific style.
The frizzy side is great for those who want a laid-back look but still look put together. It’s perfect for casual days out, weekend adventures, or even a relaxed day at the office. The key is to find the balance between controlled chaos and effortless style.
Great for Bearded Men
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, so there’s a smooth transition from hair to beard. This cohesive look makes the overall style look intentional and thought out. I’ve found many men with beard love styles that complement their facial hair, and the frizzy side part does just that.
Styling
To style the frizzy side part, start with slightly damp hair. Apply a light-hold styling cream or mousse to enhance the natural texture without weighing it down. I recommend a product with a flexible hold so your hair can still move.
Create a side part with your fingers or comb, and then tousle the hair gently to get that messy, effortless look. You can also use a diffuser attachment on your blow dryer to enhance the natural waves and frizz and add more volume and texture to your hair.
9. Side Part for Asian Hair
Asian hair is known for its versatility and toughness. Asian guys can pull off any hairstyle, but sometimes their hair needs a bit of coaxing to get the desired look. Luckily, the side part is one of those styles that’s easy to achieve without much effort, and that’s true for Asian hair, too.
Embracing Thickness and Volume
Thicker hair holds volume well, and this side-part style takes full advantage of that. The hair is brushed to the side and activates the hair, resulting in a voluminous quiff that adds height and character to the overall look. I find this style not only enhances the natural texture of the hair but also creates a striking silhouette that draws attention.
The sides and back are cut short to keep it clean and polished. This contrast between the longer top and shorter sides is a classic look that suits many face shapes. It’s a versatile style that can go from casual to formal, so it’s great for many occasions.
Styling Tips for Tough Hair
If you have tough, thick, or coarse hair, you might need to invest in a strong-hold pomade or clay to keep everything in place. These products are designed to provide the grip and structure to manage thicker hair types. I recommend starting with a small amount of product and adding more as you go until you get the desired hold. This way, you won’t end up with too stiff or weighed-down hair.
To style, start with clean, dry hair. Apply the pomade or clay all over the hair, focusing on the roots to lift and add volume. Use a comb or your fingers to create a sharp side part, then brush the hair to the side to create the quiff. For added height, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting while styling to set the shape.
10. Pompadour W/Subtle Side Part
The pompadour is another iconic style from the ’50s that goes well with the side part. Over the years, this classic style has evolved into many modern interpretations. For a mix of old and new, check out this long pompadour that’s full of attitude.
A Classic Twist
This pompadour is inspired by the classic Elvis style but has its own personality. Its height and volume create a striking silhouette that grabs attention. Since the hair is quite long—usually 5-6 inches or more—it’s an eye-catching pompadour that can rival any Instagram quiff.
The subtle side adds a touch of elegance to the pompadour and creates a clean line separating the longer top from the shorter sides. This combination is versatile enough to go from casual to formal occasions.
How to Style?
To get the perfect pompadour with a subtle side part, you’ll need a strong hold product, especially if you have tough hair. A good pomade or styling cream will help keep the shape and volume all day. I recommend a matte-finish product so the hair doesn’t look too shiny or greasy.
To style, start with clean, dry hair. Apply a generous amount of product all over the hair, focusing on the roots to add lift. Use a comb to create the subtle side part, then brush the hair back and up to create the pompadour. For added height, you can use a blow dryer on a low setting while styling to set the shape and add volume.
Perfect for Bearded Men
This style is also great for bearded men. The volume of the pompadour complements facial hair and creates a cohesive look with your overall style.
11. Swooped Up Side Part Fade
We’ve seen most side-part haircuts for men, which are short or medium in length. Now, let’s look at some long styles, starting with this swooping high-volume style that redefines the classic side part.
Modern Take
This style is far from the classic side, but it is modern. The swooped-up effect creates a loose, flowy look that adds drama and flair. I think this haircut has a Mediterranean feel; it’s confident and charismatic. It’s perfect for those who want to make a statement while still looking polished.
The longer top allows for versatility in styling. You can experiment with different looks. Whether you prefer a structured swoop or a relaxed, messy finish, this style can do it.
The Fade
The fade on the sides is another modern twist that differentiates this style from the classic side part. The gradual transition from longer hair on top to shorter hair on the sides creates a clean, modern shape. This combination of side part and fade is a relatively new pairing and looks great when done well.
For the best results, a clean part and even fade are key. I recommend talking to your barber about your desired fade to make sure it suits your face shape and overall style. A well-blended fade will enhance the swooped-up look and add to the overall sophistication of the style.
How to Style?
To style the swooped-up side part fade, start with clean, dry hair. Apply a volumizing mousse or a lightweight styling cream to add texture and hold. I find that using a product for high volume helps achieve the swooped-up effect while keeping the hair manageable.
12. Overhanging Side Part
Finally, let’s look at this overhanging style, which is probably the most unconventional side part of the haircut on this list. The overhanging side part is a bold move that breaks the rules of traditional hairstyles, perfect for those who want to express themselves.
Key Features
Two things that make this style stand out are the sleek part and the overhanging hair. The sleek part creates a sharp contrast with the longer overhanging hair on one side. The messy hair on one side and neat hair on the other add texture and movement that few other styles can do. I think this dynamic creates a visually interesting look that grabs attention and shows creativity.
The overhanging part of the style adds playfulness. The hair can flow freely while still looking structured. This style is perfect for those who want to make a statement and take a more experimental approach to grooming.
Asymmetrical
This is an extremely asymmetrical look, so not for everyone. The overhanging hair is bold, so if you’re not used to trendier styles and longer hair, this might not be for you. I like that this style allows for personal expression, as you can tailor it to your own style and personality.
How to Style?
To style the overhanging side part, start with clean, dry hair. Apply a lightweight styling cream or mousse to add texture and hold. I recommend using a product with a flexible hold so the hair can move naturally while keeping the overhanging part in place.
Part the hair to the side with a comb, style the longer hair to hang over, and tousle the other side for a more undone look.
