Side Part Haircut for Men: Where to Part, 6 Styles and How to Ask
The side part is the most dependable men’s haircut there is. The hair is split on one side and combed across, which gives a tidy shape that works for interviews, weddings and every ordinary day in between. The trick is putting the part in the right place for your head, not just copying a photo.
Where should your part go?
Most people have a natural part. To find it, comb wet hair straight back, then push it forward with your palm. It will split where it wants to. Usually that line sits above the outer corner of one eye. Parting there means the hair cooperates instead of springing back up.
If you have a cowlick at the front, part on the side the hair already wants to fall towards.
Soft part vs hard part
| Soft part | Hard part | |
|---|---|---|
| How it is made | Combed in with a comb | Shaved line with a trimmer |
| Look | Natural, classic | Sharp, defined |
| Upkeep | None | Grows out in 1–2 weeks |
| Best for | Office, formal | Fades and modern cuts |
6 side part variations
1. Classic side part
Scissor-cut sides, 6–8 cm on top, combed across with a light cream. Never really goes out of style.
2. Side part with taper fade
Short tapered sides with a longer top. Neat, and the most requested version at most barbershops.
3. Side-parted pompadour
The top is lifted at the front before being combed over. Needs 8–10 cm and a blow-dryer.
4. Hard part with skin fade
A shaved part line over a skin fade. Very sharp, but plan for barber visits every 2 weeks.
5. Textured side part
Combed loosely with fingers and matte paste. Relaxed and modern.
6. Side part with longer sides
The sides are left long enough to tuck behind the ears. Works for wavy hair and a softer, grown-out look.
How to ask your barber
“Side part on my left (or right). About 7 centimetres on top, taper the sides from a number 2, and leave enough weight at the front so it combs over cleanly.”
Add “hard part” only if you want a shaved line. Many barbers will add one by default with a fade.
Styling in 3 minutes
- Towel-dry and comb in your part with the tip of a comb.
- Blow-dry the longer side across and slightly up, the short side down.
- Apply a small amount of cream or pomade.
- Comb through once for a neat finish, or use fingers for texture.
Who it suits
Almost every face shape and hair type. On round faces, add height at the front. On long faces, keep the top flatter and the sides fuller. Fine hair looks thicker with a matte product; shiny pomade can make it look thinner.
FAQ
Which side should I part my hair on?
Wherever your hair naturally splits. If you are unsure, the left side is more common, but there is no rule.
Can I switch my part side?
Yes, but expect a week or two of the hair resisting. Blow-dry it in the new direction every day.
Side part or middle part?
Side parts look more formal; middle parts look softer and younger. Read our middle part guide to compare.
