Last Updated on September 7, 2026 by Dru Meskan
Trends come and go in the grooming industry for men. One year, it is all about man buns, while the next year is all about buzz cuts. However, in the midst of all the trends that come and go, there is one hairstyle that stands as a steadfast constant. The side part is the holy grail of hairstyles for men. It is a hairstyle that is always in style, always a cut above the rest, and can work on most of the guys that come to our barbershop.
Contact First & Mane if you want more personalized advice or to book your next appointment for the best grooming experience. In the meantime, let’s delve into the side part style!
A History of Sophistication
In order to grasp the power of this particular cut, we must examine its legacy. The side part was the epitome of the Golden Age of Hollywood, topping the domes of leading men such as Cary Grant and Gregory Peck. The side part conveyed an aura of effortless elegance and tidiness.
As the counter-culture movements of the 1960s and 70s saw men grow their hair long, the side part made an explosive comeback in the late 2000s as television shows set in the middle of the last century became popular. The side part is the mark of a man who is taking care of himself – prime examples of side part haircuts for men can be found throughout time.
Things to Consider Before You Cut
Though the side part is a universally flattering haircut, there are a few changes we make according to the features you have. The first thing we notice is the shape of the face. Guys with a square-shaped face will look amazing with a side part because it will accentuate the strong facial features. Guys with rounder faces will benefit if we keep the hair on the sides shorter and the hair on top fuller.
Also, the texture of the hair is a huge factor in the overall look of the haircut. If you have very thick and unmanageable hair, we texture the top to get rid of the weight, making it easier for you to comb it over in the morning. If you have thinner hair, we have certain cutting methods that help create density, and the scalp will not be as visible once you part your hair.
Lastly, the age of the person is also a consideration. A younger man can rock a disconnected undercut, while the older man would look better in a scissor-tapered haircut. For many, a classic side part haircut for men is the perfect choice to suit age and style.
Classic Styles for the Professional
But for those of you who like a more traditional look, there is nothing like the classic gentleman’s style. This type of haircut uses scissor work as opposed to clippers and features a smooth transition from sides to top. The hair on top is cut long enough so it can be styled back and away from the face using a high-shine pomade or gel.
This style is ideal for a work setting, as it requires a clean and sharp cut. We make sure to clean up around the ears and neckline. Consider trying a side part haircut for men to achieve timeless sophistication in the workplace.
Contemporary Variations for the Bold
If you are looking to incorporate the elegance of a side part with a more modern twist, we have lots of ways we can modify it to suit your style. The biggest modification we get asked to do is to incorporate the side part with a fade. Whether it be a skin fade or a high fade, the look of the short hair on the sides and the longer hair on top creates a sharp, masculine look.
The next modification we can do to incorporate a more modern look is to add texture to your hair. Instead of using hair product to keep your hair slicked back, we use matte clay to give your hair volume and keep your side part looking relaxed and effortless.
The Hard Part: A Sharper Modern Twist
Another modification worth mentioning alongside the fade and texture options above is the hard part. Instead of just combing the hair to one side, a hard part uses a razor to carve a thin, clean line directly into the scalp, which makes the part itself impossible to miss. It’s a popular pairing with a high fade for guys who want their side part to look deliberate and sharp rather than soft and combed over, and it’s a quick add-on to request the next time you’re already in for a fade.
How to Style a Side Part at Home
A great haircut only gets you halfway there, styling it well the other mornings between visits is what keeps it looking sharp. Start with clean, towel dried hair that’s still slightly damp, and comb it along your natural part rather than forcing a new one, hair tends to fall more naturally and hold longer when you work with its natural growth pattern instead of against it. From there, product choice depends on your hair type. A pomade gives straight or fine hair a polished, high shine finish and a firm hold. A clay works better for thick or coarse hair, since it adds texture and a matte finish without weighing the hair down. A lighter styling cream suits fine or thinning hair well, giving it body without stiffness.
Work a small amount through damp hair, comb it into place along the part, and finish with a blow dryer on low heat to set the shape and add lift at the root. A little product goes a long way, and it’s easier to add more than to fix hair that’s overloaded.
Find Your Perfect Part
A side part haircut isn’t just a haircut, it’s an investment in your image. If you’re eighteen or eighty, there’s a version of this haircut that will work for you and boost your confidence. Are you ready for a change? Come sit in one of our chairs at First & Mane and let us help you sort through your options and pick just the right cut for your lifestyle and personality. Discover the best side part haircuts for men tailored to your unique look!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should You Trim a Side Part Haircut?
Most side part haircuts need a trim every two to three weeks to keep the part line clean and the sides from growing out and losing their shape.
What Product Is Best for a Side Part?
It depends on your hair type. Pomade gives straight or fine hair a shiny, polished hold, clay works better for thick or coarse hair with a matte finish, and a lighter cream suits fine or thinning hair without stiffness.
Does a Side Part Work With Every Face Shape?
It works especially well with square, round, and oval face shapes, since the defined part and styled top add structure without overwhelming any one feature.
What Is a Hard Part Haircut?
A hard part uses a razor to carve a thin line directly into the scalp along the part, creating a sharper, more defined look than simply combing the hair to one side. It’s often paired with a fade.
Can You Get a Side Part With Curly or Thick Hair?
Yes. Curly and thick hair can both wear a side part well, though a barber will usually remove some bulk at the crown and keep the sides tighter so the curls or thickness frame the face rather than overwhelm it.
Dru Meskan is the owner and master barber at First & Mane in Scottsdale, Arizona. With 19 years of haircutting experience, including 11 years as a professional barber, Dru is known for precision cuts, modern grooming techniques, and personalized service that keeps clients looking and feeling their best.