Hair partings might seem like a small detail, but they can completely transform your look. Whether you’re team side part or middle part, the way you divide your hair can enhance your facial features, balance proportions, and even influence how others perceive you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each style, explore which face shapes they flatter most, and provide tips on how to choose the perfect part for your unique look.
The Side Part: Classic & Face-Framing
The side part has been a staple in hairstyling for decades, offering a timeless and versatile look. Typically placed slightly off-center, this parting creates asymmetry that can soften angular features and add dimension to flat or fine hair.
Benefits of a side part:
- Creates the illusion of volume, especially for fine or flat hair
- Softens strong jawlines or angular face shapes
- Adds a touch of sophistication and maturity
- Works well with most haircuts from bobs to long layers
Celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and George Clooney have made the side part iconic, proving its enduring appeal across genders.
The Middle Part: Modern & Symmetrical
The middle part has made a major comeback in recent years, championed by Gen Z and fashion icons alike. This centered parting creates balanced symmetry that can highlight delicate features and work beautifully with straight, sleek styles.
Benefits of a middle part:
- Emphasizes facial symmetry
- Creates a modern, youthful appearance
- Works exceptionally well with long, straight hair
- Makes a bold statement with curtain bangs or face-framing layers
Stars like Bella Hadid and Harry Styles have embraced the middle part trend, showcasing its versatility from red carpet glam to casual street style.
Face Shape Matters: Which Part Flatters You?
Your ideal hair parting depends largely on your face shape. Here’s how to choose:
Round Faces
A deep side part helps elongate round faces by creating diagonal lines. Avoid middle parts that emphasize the face’s circular shape.
Square Faces
A soft side part balances strong jawlines. Middle parts can work if softened with face-framing layers.
Oval Faces
Lucky you! Oval faces can pull off both parts beautifully. Experiment with both to see what mood you prefer.
Heart-Shaped Faces
A middle part helps balance a wider forehead with a narrow chin. Side parts can also work if not too deep.
Long Faces
A middle part with width-adding styles (like waves) helps shorten the appearance. Avoid high side parts that add length.
Hair Type Considerations
Your hair’s texture and thickness also influence which part works best:
Fine Hair: A side part creates instant volume at the roots. Middle parts may emphasize flatness unless styled with texture.
Thick Hair: Middle parts help distribute weight evenly. Side parts can tame bulk on one side.
Curly Hair: Middle parts showcase curl symmetry. Side parts can create beautiful, cascading volume.
Wavy Hair: Try both! Side parts enhance beachy waves, while middle parts give a bohemian vibe.
Styling Tips for Each Part
Perfecting the Side Part
1. Use a tail comb for precision
2. Part hair when damp for better hold
3. Blow-dry roots in the opposite direction first for lift
4. Set with light-hold hairspray
Mastering the Middle Part
1. Divide hair with a rattail comb from nose to crown
2. Use a straightener to perfect the part line if needed
3. Apply a shine serum for sleek looks
4. Add subtle face-framing pieces to soften
How to Transition Between Parts
Switching your part after years can feel strange. Try these tips:
Gradual Shift: Move your side part slightly closer to center over weeks
Wet Reset: After washing, comb hair straight back before choosing new part
Training: Use clips or headbands to encourage hair in new direction
Cut Adjustment: Some haircuts need slight trimming to suit new parts
Final Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
While trends come and go, the best parting comes down to what makes you feel confident. Consider:
Choose a Side Part If:
– You want to add volume or dimension
– Your face benefits from asymmetry
– You prefer a classic, polished look
Choose a Middle Part If:
– You have symmetrical features to highlight
– You love modern, minimalist styles
– Your hair type benefits from even distribution
