The Side Parting Is Back—Here Are the Gen Z-Approved Ways to Style It in 2026
If there's one hair trend making a comeback this season, it's the humble side parting.
I might technically fall into the Gen-Z category, but honestly, my style is millennial through and through. Which probably explains why I'm writing this particular hair trend story. While some of you might see it as an ode to the millennial side part, I'm here to make it clear that a side parting is very much back in a big way in 2026, and there are lots of modern ways to wear this hairstyle for spring.
The side parting hair trend has been teasing a comeback for quite some time now, but it wasn't until I was writing about some of my favourite celebrity makeup looks that I realised pretty much every single star was wearing some kind of side part. From Zendaya's recent micro bob hairstyle at the Los Angeles premiere of The Drama to Gracie Abrams' tucked pixie at the BAFTAs, it's clear that the celebs can't get enough, so I'm taking this as my sign that the millennial hairstyle is well and truly back this season.
Below, I've rounded up my favourite side parting hairstyles so you know exactly how to style this spring hair trend, and I've even included some top-tier products to help get the look at home.
11 Ways to Style a Side Parting for Spring 2026
1. Wet-Look Side Parting
If you want a cool-girl-approved side parting this spring, opt for a wet-look style like Saoirse Ronan.
2. Micro Bob
This trend looks incredible when paired with a sleek bob and sweeping side fringe.
3. Side Swept
For a red-carpet-ready look, add voluminous curls and sweep one side of your parting back with a bobby pin or hairband.
4. Tucked Pixie
A pixie and a side-part? Millennials really will love this style.
5. Voluminous Curls
This trend looks incredible with curly hair.
6. '70s Flick
How chic does a side part look with this '70s-esque, flicked hairstyle? Use your hair straighteners or a hot brush to help achieve this retro finish.
7. Slicked-Back Side Part
When in doubt, slick it back and finish things off with a helping of shine spray.
8. Curly Bob
This parting looks so chic when paired with a stylish bob hairstyle.
9. Face-Framing Layers
Add face-framing layers to really make your side parting pop. Bonus points for some blonde, face-framing highlights, too.
10. Statement Side Part
Opt for a super sleek, super sharp side part to make a statement with your hairstyle.
11. Natural Texture
In my opinion, a side part can add lots of volume to natural waves, curls and coils.
The Best Products for a Side Parting
This hot brush is ideal for creating a side-swept hairstyle with lots of volume.
As you can probably tell, I think a side part looks incredible with lots of lift and body, and this volumising spray will add serious oomph to your roots.
If you prefer a slicked-back style, this hair gel will become your new best friend.
Getting a precise side part can be tricky to do at home, but this sectioning hair comb makes it a whole lot easier.
Add some loose curls to your hairstyle and sweep one side of your parting back with a stylish clip.
A side part + naturally wavy or curly hair = a match made in heaven. This curl cream will be sure to enhance your style.
