Is the side part making a comeback?

We’ve all seen it. The side part has resurrected—and no, it’s not just a millennial nostalgia trip. From runway shows to red carpets, side-swept locks are making a glorious return, adding a dose of glamour and edge to contemporary beauty. After years of clean, center-part symmetry dominating the scene, this off-kilter revival feels delightfully rebellious, and undeniably chic.

The resurgence isn’t subtle either. Think Selena Gomez’s chic bob at the Oscars or Zendaya’s dramatic waves at the Golden Globes. The verdict is in: after seasons of sleek minimalism, we’re officially ready to dial up the hair drama. But is the side part’s revival a fleeting reaction to middle-part fatigue, or is it a full-blown comeback? Celebrity hairstylists Florian Hurel and Loic Chapoix agree, it looks like the latter.

The side part strikes back

Fashion may be cyclical, but this comeback feels less like a fleeting rebellion and more like a natural evolution. Florian Hurel, the creative force behind some iconic red carpet looks, sees it as a refreshing shift from the sleek, symmetrical styles that have dominated in recent years. The side part, he says, never truly disappeared, it just took a stylish hiatus.

“The side part offers movement, volume, and a bit of effortless glamour, which is a refreshing contrast to the ultra-structured looks we’ve been seeing,” Hurel explains. “It’s not about replacing the center part, it’s about expanding styling choices. The new side part is more adaptable and versatile, making it feel fresh again.”

And it’s that versatility that makes this revival feel different. It’s no longer just the domain of Old Hollywood waves or early-aughts volume. Today’s side part feels effortlessly cool, whether worn tousled and beachy like Gigi Hadid’s off-duty waves, or dramatically gorgeous like Janhvi Kapoor’s silky locks. It’s a beauty power move that adds instant edge and intrigue.

Retro roots

 

The return of the side part speaks to a broader cultural shift, a collective craving for glamour and self-expression after years of pared-back beauty. Loic Chapoix of Dessange Mumbai believes it’s part of a move toward more playful, expressive styling.

“People are moving away from ultra-minimalist aesthetics and leaning into styles that feel confident, bold, and slightly undone,” he says. “The side part instantly adds face-framing drama and sophistication. It has that Old Hollywood elegance, the early 2000s playfulness, and a touch of Gen Z’s experimental styling all rolled into one.”

That interplay of nostalgia and modernity is what makes this trend so dynamic. A deep side part paired with loose, voluminous waves channels vintage glamour with a contemporary edge, while sculptural, side-swept curls add height and texture for a bold, artistic flair. Even softer, off-center parts worn with effortless elegance highlight the style’s versatility, suiting a range of hair textures and lengths—from sleek and polished to tousled and carefree.

Not your millennial side part

 

While the side part has long been associated with classic beauty, from Marilyn Monroe’s iconic blonde waves to Beyoncé’s early 2000s bombshell blowouts, 2025’s take feels refreshingly modern. Both Hurel and Chapoix agree: it’s no longer about the perfectly sculpted, hyper-styled versions of the past.

“For 2025, the side part is all about personalisation,” Chapoix says. “It’s softer, more adaptable. It can be sleek and polished, subtly off-center for a relaxed feel, or dramatically deep for a bold, statement look. It’s less about following a formula and more about making it your own.”

This flexibility makes the style feel inherently fresh. Hailey Bieber’s loose, side-swept bob perfectly captures the effortlessly cool, casual vibe, with just enough structure to add polish. Meanwhile, Blake Lively’s voluminous, side-parted waves at a recent red carpet event showed how the look can be elevated into full-fledged, show-stopping glamour.

The side part is back, and this time, it’s not going anywhere. Whether you lean into its vintage elegance or give it a contemporary edge, this face-framing style offers an instant dose of cool. After years of symmetrical sleekness, the beauty world is ready for a little asymmetry—and the side part delivers it with style, attitude, and just the right amount of drama.

Lead image: Getty images

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