Side-Parts Are Set to Return in 2026 — Here’s How to Wear One

Trends come and go, but a great parting has a habit of returning just when we’re ready for a change. According to a growing wave of runway looks and celebrity styling, the side-part is being tipped as a standout hair trend for 2026 — and the best bit is that it doesn’t require a cut or colour appointment to try. Instead, it’s a styling shift that can instantly change the balance of your face, the lift at your roots, and even how polished your hair looks day-to-day.

It’s easy to understand the appeal. A side-part can create a flattering sweep across the forehead, build volume at the crown (particularly helpful for finer hair), and bring a touch of “done” to even a simple blow-dry or air-dried texture. And, in UK salons, it’s one of the quickest ways stylists refresh a client’s look without committing them to anything irreversible.

Why the side-part is trending again (and why it’s so wearable)

Many of us grew up with a deep side-part as the default — then the centre part dominated for years, backed by minimalist styling and uniform, sleek finishes. The return of the side-part feels like a broader move towards softer, more dynamic hair: more lift, more movement, and a little more glamour without needing to look overly “styled”.

From a technical point of view, a side-part can:

• Boost root volume by shifting hair away from its natural fall and encouraging lift at the crown.
• Enhance face framing, particularly when paired with long layers, curtain fringe, or a soft bend through the lengths.
• Make hair look thicker by stacking more hair to one side and reducing the look of flatness along the top.
• Offer styling flexibility — it works with ponytails, buns, waves, sleek straight looks, and textured bobs.

The practicality is what makes it a strong contender for 2026: you can test it in seconds. If you’ve got a mirror and a tail comb (or simply your fingers), you can trial different placements and see what suits your face and hairline best before you commit to a new “signature” look.

How to find your best side-part placement

There isn’t one universally flattering side-part — the best placement depends on your hair growth pattern, density, and the effect you want. In salons, stylists typically start by considering the crown swirl (cowlick), then adapt the part to work with that natural direction rather than fighting it.

Try this simple at-home method:

• Start from your natural part (where your hair separates when you let it fall) and move gradually sideways rather than jumping straight into a dramatic deep part.
• Watch the crown: if you notice separation, flyaways, or a ridge, move the part slightly back towards centre until it sits smoothly.
• Check your brow balance: many people find a side-part looks best when it aligns roughly above the arch of the eyebrow, but this is a guide, not a rule.
• Assess the profile: turn your head slightly and see how the part affects the outline around the temple and cheekbone.

If you’re someone who’s worn a strict centre part for years, expect a brief “training” period. Hair can retain a memory of how it’s been set. A stylist’s trick is to blow-dry the roots in the new direction while the hair is damp, then pin it in place as it cools for a more reliable hold.

Volume, polish, and hold: the styling techniques that make it look modern

The 2026 take on the side-part isn’t about crunchy hairspray or an overly stiff sweep. Think airy lift, touchable texture, and a parting that looks intentional rather than accidental. The goal is movement — particularly through the front sections — with a clean, healthy-looking finish.

UK session stylists often focus on three things: lift at the root, a controlled (but not flat) hairline, and shine through the mid-lengths and ends. Here are approachable ways to get there:

• For lift: Apply a light volumising product at the roots on towel-dried hair, then blow-dry the roots in the opposite direction of the part. Flip the part into place once dry.
• For a smooth hairline: Use a small amount of lightweight styling cream or serum on the front sections, then brush gently into shape.
• For bend and body: Add a loose wave with a large-barrel tong or hot brush, then brush out for softness.
• For hold without stiffness: Mist flexible hairspray from a distance, or use a texturising spray through the lengths to maintain movement.

If you’re heat styling regularly, it’s sensible to use a heat protectant and keep tools at a moderate temperature. Many stylists recommend prioritising technique (sectioning, direction, brush tension) over turning the heat up — it’s usually the faster route to a smoother result anyway.

Who does the side-part suit — and how to tailor it to your hair type?

One reason the side-part keeps cycling back into fashion is its versatility. It can soften strong angles, create the illusion of fullness, and help specific cuts sit better. That said, “what suits” is never only about face shape — it’s also about your texture, density, and styling preference.

• Fine hair: A side-part can be a clever volume hack. Keep the part slightly off-centre for a natural look, and focus product at the root rather than the ends to avoid weighing hair down.
• Thick hair: A deeper side-part can feel chic and controlled, especially with a sleek finish. If you’re prone to bulk at the sides, ask your stylist about internal layering to reduce heaviness without losing length.
• Curly and coily hair: Side-parts can look striking and sculptural. Try setting the part while hair is damp and defined, using clips to hold the direction as it dries. (For some textures, a little edge control around the hairline can help the shape look intentional.)
• Fringe wearers: The side-part can refresh a grown-out fringe, turning it into a sweeping face frame. If your fringe feels awkward, try blow-drying it side-to-side first, then settling it into the final direction.

Real-world tip: if you’re unsure, wear the side-part for a full day before deciding. Check it in different lighting, see how it behaves in wind and rain (hello, UK weather), and notice whether you keep pushing it back to centre out of habit.

Key Takeaways

• The side-part is tipped to be a major 2026 trend and it’s an easy way to refresh your look without cutting your hair.
• A great side-part is about placement: work with your crown’s natural growth pattern for a smoother, longer-lasting result.
• The modern version looks airy and touchable — think lift at the root and movement through the front rather than stiff, set hair.
• Fine hair often benefits from a slightly off-centre part for volume; thicker and textured hair can carry deeper parts beautifully.
• Try it practically: change your part on damp hair, blow-dry roots in the new direction, and pin to cool to help “train” the shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will switching to a side-part damage my hair?
Changing your parting won’t damage hair by itself. Breakage is more likely to come from frequent tight tension (for example, very tight styles) or heavy heat use without protection. Be gentle at the hairline and avoid pulling the same areas too tightly day after day.

How do I stop my side-part from collapsing after a few hours?
Start the part when hair is damp, blow-dry the roots in the new direction, then clip the front section in place until it cools. A light volumising product at the roots and a flexible hold spray can also help.

Is a deep side-part still wearable for everyday?
Yes — but it looks most modern when it’s balanced with soft movement rather than a heavily shellacked finish. If you want it to feel less “going out”, keep the part slightly off-centre and opt for natural texture.

What if I have a cowlick and the side-part looks messy?
Cowlicks are common and manageable. Move the part a few millimetres at a time until it sits comfortably with your growth pattern, and use targeted blow-drying at the roots. If it’s persistent, a stylist can suggest a placement that works with your crown swirl.

Does a side-part suit short hair and bobs?
Absolutely. On bobs, a side-part can add instant shape and lift, especially when paired with a slight bend through the ends. If your bob flips oddly, try a quick blast of heat with a round brush at the roots where you want the lift.

Can I wear a side-part with curly or coily hair without losing definition?
Yes. Define curls as usual, then set the part while hair is damp using clips. Let the hair dry fully before removing clips to help the part stay neat without disturbing curl clumps too much.