Guy with a side parting.

THE SIDE PARTING

Hairstyle

MILITARY STYLE. MODERN TWIST.

The side parting haircut is a military-inspired hairstyle and a true classic that’s super-easy to maintain. Push it to one side for 1920s, Prohibition-style sophistication. Or wear it slightly messed up for a more modern look.

Sleek as this look is, pulling it off at all depends on getting your parting right. Don’t fret: it’s easy when you know how. The trick is to look for your cow-lick. That’s the spiral of hair at the back of your head. 

If hair from the spiral moves clockwise, part left. If it’s counter-clockwise, part right. There. Told you it was easy. 

Perfect for:

The history

How it began

The side parting started out as a cut for formal military events. Then Prohibition came, and the style took on a new distinction. The side parting was a symbol of sophistication, even in the era’s speakeasies and backstreet distilleries. 

A guy with a side parting.

Kieron Webb - The London Barber

Show me the steps

Learn the fundamentals

Learn the fundamentals

HOW TO
  • WET

    01

    While your hair is wet, take a comb and create a hard parting on one side.

  • DRY

    02

    Blow-dry your hair in one direction. Smooth it over with a comb as it dries.

  • RAKE

    03

    Rake Axe Clean Cut Look: Classic Pomade through the hair, continuing in the same direction.

  • DEFINE

    04

    Smooth down any wispy bits of hair with your comb. Done and dusted.

Related articles

More tips

Hair, fashion, music, culture. What makes you gold?

  • A man in a wheelchair, dancing with a girl teaser.
    Axe Home
    Explore AXE's extensive product range of body sprays, deodorants, anti-perspirants, shower gels & hair products and get inspirational grooming tips and hacks.