Are side partings back in 2026

The side parting? Yeah, it's making a serious comeback in 2026. After years of the centre part ruling everything, people are switching things up. But don't worry—it's not the stiff, gelled-down look your dad rocked in the 80s. This version's softer, with way more texture. Think 90s nostalgia mixed with something fresh. Honestly, it's all about volume these days, and side parts just give you that lift centre parts can't touch.

Why is the side parting trending again in 2026?

People got tired of the centre part. Simple as that. It's been everywhere for ages—on celebs, influencers, your neighbour. And while it can look sleek, it's kinda unforgiving. A side part? Instant volume. Makes your hair look thicker, more alive. It frames your face better too, softening sharp jawlines and balancing things out. Celebrities are all over it now—deep side parts on red carpets, paired with curtain bangs or loose waves. The vibe's definitely shifted.

“The side part is back because it is inherently flattering. It creates an immediate sense of lift and volume that the centre part often lacks. In 2026, we are seeing it styled with a lot of movement and texture, not the stiff, flat looks of the past.” - Celebrity Hairstylist, London Fashion Week 2026.

How to style a side parting in 2026?

Getting that modern side part isn't hard. It's all about texture—softness, not stiffness. Here's a quick rundown.

• Determine your natural side: Push your hair back with a comb. Whatever side it naturally falls to? That's your winner.
• Create the part: Use a tail comb from your eyebrow arch to your crown. Go deeper than feels right—trust me.
• Add volume at the root: Volumizing mousse on damp roots. Blow-dry the smaller side away from your face, the bigger side toward it. Lift city.
• Style with texture: Texturizing spray or sea salt spray. Creates soft, piecey waves. For sleeker vibes, just a lightweight oil on the ends.
• Finish with flexibility: Skip the heavy hairspray. A flexible hold keeps things moving without looking wet or frozen.

Side part vs centre part: Which is more flattering in 2026?

Honestly? Depends on your face. Neither's better—it's personal. Side parts are great for round, square, heart-shaped faces—adds asymmetry and length. Centre parts work for oval and long faces, can elongate. But in 2026? The real rule is confidence. A lot of people are switching between both—side part for volume days, centre part when you want something sleek and minimal. Why choose?

What hair types suit a side parting?

Pretty much all of them. Straight hair? Sleek with a dramatic line. Wavy? Adds structure, enhances those waves. Curly and coily? A deep side part gives volume and definition—lets curls do their thing. Fine hair? It's a lifesaver—instant thickness illusion. Just adapt the technique. Use products for hold, texture, or definition depending on your hair. Simple.

FAQ: Are side partings back in 2026?

Side parting checklist for 2026

• Choose the side that naturally falls best.
• Use a volumizing mousse or root lift spray.
• Create a deep part from the eyebrow arch.
• Blow-dry roots for maximum lift.
• Add texture with a sea salt or texturizing spray.
• Avoid heavy gels or wet-look products.
• Finish with a flexible hold hairspray.