The side part hairstyle

HISTORY

1. Early Roots and Antiquity

The idea of dividing hair into two sections dates back to ancient times. The ancient Greeks and Romans wore various hairstyles, often using a side part to create symmetry. This style was considered a symbol of status and elegance since achieving it required well-groomed, combed hair.

2. 19th Century: The Rise of Elegance and Aesthetics.

The side part hairstyle gained significant popularity in the mid-19th century when men’s fashion shifted towards more refined and structured looks.

In Great Britain and Europe, men of the middle and upper classes often wore longer hairstyles with side partings, making the style popular among intellectuals and military circles. The side part perfectly fit the fashion standards of the time: simple yet elegant.

3. 20th Century: The Golden Age and Celebrity Popularity.
During the 1920s and 1930s, in Hollywood’s “Golden Age,” the side part became a symbol of male elegance. Hollywood actors such as Clark Gable, Gary Cooper, and Ronald Colman popularized this style on screen. Their sleek, well-groomed hair with a sharp side part became the epitome of sophistication.
The side part complemented formal suits perfectly, creating an image of a man with timeless and impeccable style.

4. 1950s: Retro Style and Youth Revolution.
In the post-war period, the side part remained popular but evolved with new variations. In the 1950s, with the rise of style icons like James Dean and Elvis Presley, the side part became part of the “youth” aesthetic, blending effortless coolness with sophistication. The younger generation adapted the classic style to their needs, adding more texture and volume.

5. 1970s-80s: Experimentation and Subculture Influence.
During the 1970s and 1980s, when more extravagant hairstyles (such as long hair, afros, and mohawks) gained popularity, the side part lost some of its appeal among the youth. However, it remained a staple for older men and those in corporate or professional settings. Shorter and slicked-back variations remained relevant for those seeking a classic, well-groomed appearance.

6. Modern Era: Revival and Versatility.
Since the early 2000s, the side part has undergone a revival. It has once again become a symbol of elegance and classic masculinity, gaining new life through iconic actors and pop culture figures like Benedict Cumberbatch, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Daniel Craig.
The modern side part has adapted to contemporary trends: slightly tousled, with added texture, yet still retaining the elegance of the classic style.