Once seen as a relic of the millennial generation, the side part is back with a vengeance. For years, fashion’s obsession with a minimalist aesthetic has made this “clean”, symmetrical, center-parted hairstyle popular. However, like fashion trends, beauty trends are cyclical.
With the Y2K revival of low-rise pants, jeans paired with dresses and open-toe heels, the side part was everywhere on the Spring/Summer 2025 runways. This time, though, designers tapped the industry’s top hairstylists to experimentally reinterpret the look, making it feel not only nostalgic but also refreshing.
Just look at the Saint Laurent show. Under the careful hand of hairstylist Duffy, models paired sleek side-parts with suits designed by creative director Anthony Vaccarello. Other models on the Paris runway wore their hair in loose waves that fell romantically from the center, rather than down the middle. And from there, everything was upgraded.
Hairstylist Anthony Turner created an edgier look at Acne Studios, with side-parts that flowed and rested against the models’ faces. A similar sleek side-parting was seen at Jil Sander – this time with bangs pinned into a wisp – while braids were also worn side-parted at Vaquera.
Vivienne Westwood took a more casual approach, with hair tossed to one side in a messy pattern; Gabriela Hearst showed a similar look, but cut shorter. Hairstylist Jawara’s version at Missoni was more geometric, with a jagged side-part that recalled the brand’s classic motifs, while Hermès achieved a similar effect with an exaggerated deep part.
Despite the varying interpretations of the side-parting, one thing is certain: the side-parting that dominates the catwalks today – both for contemporary and heritage brands – is far from a stale, retro look. In fact, it’s taking center stage once again, with its rich variety and personality.