Move over, middle parts—there’s a new (and very old) player in town. For Winter 2026, the deep, swoopy side part has officially dethroned the “clean girl” center part. Spearheaded by icons like Olivia Rodrigo and Bella Hadid, this trend is all about gravity-defying roots and a look that screams “Old Money.”
Unlike the flat, pin-straight styles of the early 2020s, the 2026 side part is fluffy, voluminous, and undeniably high-fashion. The best part? You don’t need a new haircut to pull it off—just a strategic hair flip and the right products.
The Anatomy of the “Wealthy” Side Part
The goal isn’t just to move your hair to the side; it’s to create architectural volume. To get the look, you want to part your hair while it’s damp, starting directly above the arch of your eyebrow. Use a round brush to blow-dry the “swoop” in the opposite direction of where it will eventually lay to maximize that 80s-inspired lift.
View this post on InstagramThe “Must-Haves” for Maximum Volume
To achieve that “model-off-duty” fluff without the crunch, these are the essential products currently dominating the 2026 beauty scene:
1. The Root-Lifter: Ouai Thickening Spray This is the secret weapon for anyone with fine hair. The Ouai Thickening Spray uses amaranth peptides to physically thicken each strand, providing all-day volume and heat protection up to 450°F.
- The Vibe: It leaves hair soft to the touch with zero sticky residue.
2. The Texture Hero: Living Proof Full Dry Volume Texture Spray For that “undone” yet expensive look, you need grit. The Full Dry Volume Texture Spray Living Proof provides instant lift and texture on dry hair.
- The Vibe: Perfect for reviving a flat side part in the middle of the day without weighing it down.
3. The Prep: Virtue Volumizing Mousse Before you even pick up a hair dryer, prep with a high-performance mousse. The Virtue Volumizing Mousse uses Alpha Keratin 60ku to strengthen hair while adding immediate body and bounce.
- The Vibe: A lightweight, non-crunchy foam that blocks humidity and adds a healthy shine.
Shop the 1980s Revival Essentials
If you’re looking for more affordable ways to boost your volume or want to try the trend with a high-end finish, check out these top-rated favorites:
Plump for Joy Volumizing Spray
The Final Verdict
The deep side part is more than just a throwback—it’s the easiest way to give yourself an instant face lift and a boost of confidence. Whether you’re going for a sleek, red-carpet swoop or a messy, tousled wave, 2026 is the year to embrace the drama of the side part.
Affiliate Disclosure
Affiliate Disclosure: At Feeling the Vibe, we only recommend products we’ve vetted for the ultimate 2026 aesthetic. This post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase—at no extra cost to you. Happy styling!
Diana is the co-editor-in-chief of Feeling the Vibe. She loves pop culture and is always up to date on the latest news. If you have any tips or comments, email [email protected].
