1. Introduction
Your hair part plays a major role in shaping your overall look. It can make your face appear longer, slimmer, or softer while enhancing your best features. Whether you prefer a center part, deep side part, or trendy zigzag part, the right choice can bring out your natural symmetry and complement your hair extensions beautifully.
However, not every parting style suits every face shape. Some enhance balance and frame the face perfectly, while others might not be as flattering. That’s why knowing which part works best for your face shape and hairstyle can make a huge difference.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide:
✔ The best parting styles for each face shape.
✔ How to switch up your part to refresh your look.
✔ Styling tips and extension tricks to enhance your parting effortlessly.
Ready to find the perfect hair part for your face? Let’s dive in!
2. Identifying Your Face Shape
Finding your face shape is the first step in choosing the most flattering hair part. To determine yours, stand in front of a mirror and use a lip liner or eyeliner to trace the outline of your face. Alternatively, measure the width of your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline to compare their proportions.
There are several common face shapes, each with distinct characteristics. A round face has full cheeks with soft angles and a width similar to its length. The oval face is well-balanced, slightly longer than wide, with a gently rounded jaw. A square face features a strong, defined jawline with equal width at the forehead and jaw. The heart-shaped face has a wider forehead that tapers to a narrow, pointed chin. A diamond face shape is defined by high cheekbones with a narrower forehead and jaw. Lastly, a long or rectangular face has elongated features, with the forehead, cheekbones, and jawline appearing similar in width.
Understanding your face shape helps you choose the most flattering hair part, enhancing your features and achieving a balanced look.
3. Best Hair Parting for Each Face Shape
Choosing the right hair part can enhance your features and bring balance to your overall look.
Round Face:
For a round face, a deep side part helps create angles and makes the face appear longer. This style pairs beautifully with long layers or side-swept bangs to add structure. The best extensions for this face shape are clip-ins with face-framing layers, which add definition and movement.
Oval Face:
An oval face is naturally symmetrical, making a middle part the ideal choice. This parting enhances cheekbones and jawline definition, giving a sleek and polished look. To complement this, long, wavy extensions create a soft, effortless finish while maintaining the face’s natural balance.
Square Face:
For a square face, a soft side part works best to counteract strong angles and create a more delicate frame. This parting style blends well with loose waves or layered hair, softening the jawline. The best extensions for this look are volume-enhancing tape-ins, which add fullness and movement for a natural, flowy effect.
Heart-Shaped Face:
A heart-shaped face benefits from an off-center part, which helps balance a wider forehead and a narrower chin. This works particularly well with curtain bangs or soft waves, as they add volume around the jawline for a more proportional look. The best extensions for this shape are medium-length layers, which add fullness to the bottom half of the face.
Diamond-Shaped Face:
A diamond-shaped face looks best with a deep side part, as it accentuates high cheekbones and balances proportions. Pairing this part with bouncy curls or voluminous layers enhances the overall shape. The best extensions for this style are sew-in or clip-in extensions with thicker ends, adding more body and dimension.
Long or Rectangular Faces:
For a long or rectangular face, a side or zig-zag part is ideal, as it breaks up the length and creates the illusion of width. This parting works well with shoulder-length layers or waves, giving a softer and fuller appearance. The best extensions for this look are medium-length, layered extensions, which add volume and prevent the hair from looking too flat.
By selecting the right parting style for your face shape, you can enhance your natural beauty and achieve a perfectly balanced hairstyle.
4. Trendy Hair Parting Styles and How to Rock Them
Your hair part can completely transform your look, enhancing your features and complementing your overall style. Here are some trendy parting styles and how to wear them effortlessly.
1. Classic Middle Part – Chic & Timeless
A middle part is sleek, symmetrical, and never goes out of style. It’s ideal for oval, heart, and round face shapes, as it elongates the face and enhances natural balance. This parting works beautifully with straight, sleek hair for a polished, sophisticated look, or loose waves for a softer, effortless vibe. To perfect this style, use a fine-tooth comb and apply a smoothing serum to keep your hair sleek and frizz-free.
2. Deep Side Part – Glamorous & Face-Slimming
A deep side part is a go-to for adding instant drama and volume. It’s perfect for round, square, and diamond face shapes as it creates angles that help slim and contour the face. This parting pairs well with voluminous curls, Hollywood waves, or sleek styles. Use a volumizing mousse or root lift spray before styling to enhance the fullness and achieve that red-carpet-worthy look.
3. Off-Center Part – Subtle Yet Flattering
For those who want a soft, effortless appearance, an off-center part is the perfect balance between a middle and side part. It works well for all face shapes but is especially flattering for heart and square faces, as it subtly softens strong features. This parting is great for casual, everyday hairstyles, whether you're wearing your hair straight, curled, or in a low ponytail.
4. Zig-Zag Part – Playful & Trendy
If you want to add texture and volume, a zig-zag part is a fun and trendy choice. This style is best for long and oval face shapes, as it creates the illusion of fuller hair. To achieve this look, use a tail comb to create sharp, alternating sections, then set it with a light texturizing spray for a messy, voluminous finish.
5. Curtain Bangs with a Part – Retro & Stylish
Curtain bangs paired with a middle or off-center part create a soft, face-framing effect that complements heart, square, and oval face shapes. This look blends effortlessly with extensions, adding a retro-chic vibe to any hairstyle. Style curtain bangs with a round brush and blow dryer for a feathered, bouncy effect, or use a curling iron to enhance the framing layers.
6. No Part (Pulled-Back Styles) – Sleek & Bold
For a high-fashion, statement look, no parting at all is a sleek and powerful choice. This works for all face shapes, emphasizing strong features and a sharp jawline. Pulled-back styles like high ponytails, slick buns, and wet-look hair are perfect for this trend. Use a strong-hold gel or pomade to achieve a smooth, polished finish without flyaways.
Experimenting with different parting styles allows you to switch up your look effortlessly. Whether you prefer a classic middle part, a dramatic deep side part, or a trendy zig-zag, the right parting style can elevate your entire hairstyle!
5. How to Change Your Parting for a Fresh Look
Switching up your hair part is a simple yet effective way to transform your look. Whether you want to add volume, frame your face differently, or just try something new, here’s how to change your parting with ease.
Training Your Hair to Hold a New Part
If you’ve been wearing the same part for a long time, your hair naturally falls in that direction. Training it to stay in a new part takes a little effort:
· Part Your Hair When Wet – Hair is more flexible when damp, making it easier to reshape. Use a fine-tooth comb to create the new part and let it air-dry slightly before styling.
· Blow-Dry in Place – Use a round brush to direct hair into the new part while drying. Blow-dry against your natural parting direction to add volume and help it set in place.
· Use Styling Products – A light-hold mousse or volumizing spray can reinforce the new part, keeping it in place throughout the day.
Using Extensions to Add Volume to a New Part
A new parting can sometimes make hair appear flat, especially if it goes against your natural growth pattern. Extensions can help create fullness and balance:
· Clip-In or Tape-In Extensions – Adding a few face-framing clip-ins or tape-ins near the parting creates instant lift and thickness.
· Pro Tip: Backcombing for Extra Lift – Use a backcombing brush or teasing comb at the roots along the new part. This prevents hair from falling flat and gives the part more definition.
· Blending with Natural Hair – Curling or waving the hair can help blend extensions seamlessly while enhancing volume.
Experimenting with Different Parting Styles
Not sure which part suits you best? Try out different styles to see what works:
· Zig-Zag Part – This playful, Y2K-inspired parting adds texture and volume, perfect for a fun and edgy vibe. Create it with a tail comb and set it with a light mist of hairspray.
· Off-Center Part – A subtle shift from a middle or deep side part can create a more natural, effortless look without a drastic change.
· Flipped Part – For a bold, voluminous effect, flip your part to the opposite side of your usual style. This instantly lifts the roots for added body.
Switching your part is an easy way to refresh your hairstyle. Whether you want to train your hair for a permanent change or experiment with new styles, these tips will help you find the perfect look!
6. Best Hairstyles for Different Partings
Choosing the right hairstyle to complement your parting can enhance your overall look. Whether you prefer a sleek middle part or a playful zig-zag, here are the best hairstyles to match different parting styles.
Sleek & Straight with a Middle Part
A middle part paired with sleek, straight hair creates a polished and sophisticated look. This style works best for long hair and is especially flattering on oval face shapes. To achieve the perfect sleek finish, use a flat iron to straighten your hair in sections and apply a lightweight serum for added shine and frizz control.
Hollywood Waves with a Deep Side Part
A deep side part adds instant glamour and drama, making it ideal for heart and round face shapes. Hollywood waves create soft, voluminous movement that frames the face beautifully. To get this style, use a large-barrel curling iron, curl your hair in uniform sections, and brush the curls out gently for a sleek, vintage wave effect. Finish with a shine spray for extra radiance.
Messy Bun with an Off-Center Part
An off-center part is subtle yet flattering, adding a natural, effortless touch to your hairstyle. A messy bun is perfect for all face shapes, offering a casual yet chic look. Simply part your hair slightly off-center, gather it into a low or high bun, and leave a few strands out for a relaxed, undone vibe. A texturizing spray helps enhance the effortless elegance of this style.
Braided Half-Up Style with a Zig-Zag Part
A zig-zag part instantly makes any hairstyle fun and youthful. A half-up braided style complements this parting well, adding a playful twist to long hair extensions. To create this look, use a tail comb to form a zig-zag part, then braid two front sections and secure them at the back. This style works best with wavy or textured extensions for added dimension.
Voluminous Ponytail with a Side Part
A side part paired with a high or low voluminous ponytail is ideal for lifting the face and creating height. This style is great for adding elegance to any occasion. To achieve maximum volume, tease the crown before securing the ponytail and use clip-in ponytail extensions for extra length and fullness. Finish with a hairspray to keep the look in place all day.
No matter your face shape or hair type, finding the right hairstyle for your parting can elevate your entire look. Whether you prefer sleek, glamorous, or playful styles, there’s a perfect match for every parting choice!
7. Maintaining a Flawless Hair Part
Keeping your hair part looking fresh and natural requires proper care and styling techniques. A well-maintained part enhances your overall hairstyle, whether you wear your hair sleek, voluminous, or textured.
Keep Your Scalp Healthy
A clean and healthy scalp is the foundation of a flawless hair part. Product buildup, oil, and dirt can make your part look greasy or undefined. To maintain freshness, wash your hair regularly and incorporate a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove residue. This helps keep your part looking crisp and prevents dullness or flaking.
Prevent Flat Hair at the Part
Flat hair can make your part appear lifeless, so adding volume is key. To achieve a fuller look, apply a light mousse or root-lifting spray before styling. When blow-drying, direct your hair in the opposite direction of your part to create lift at the roots. Using a round brush or backcombing slightly at the crown can also help add height and movement, ensuring your part looks voluminous and fresh.
Avoid Visible Extension Tracks
If you wear extensions, ensuring they blend seamlessly with your natural hair is essential for a flawless part. Improper placement can make the tracks or wefts visible, which disrupts the natural flow of your hairstyle. To prevent this, strategically place your extensions and avoid attaching them too close to the parting line. A great trick is to angle the wefts around the part, which helps them blend smoothly with your natural hair. For added security, use a root concealer spray to match the extension tracks with your scalp color, creating an undetectable finish.
By maintaining a healthy scalp, adding volume at the roots, and blending extensions properly, you can achieve a flawless, long-lasting hair part that enhances your style effortlessly.
8. Celebrity Hair Part Inspiration
Looking to switch up your part? Celebrities are the perfect source of inspiration, as they often experiment with different styles to complement their features and outfits. Here are some iconic hair parting styles from A-list stars to inspire your next look.
Kim Kardashian – Sleek Middle Part with Ultra-Long Hair
Kim Kardashian is known for her signature sleek and polished middle part. This timeless style enhances symmetry and works especially well with ultra-long, straight hair. A touch of hair oil or serum adds extra shine, making the look glamorous and red-carpet ready.
Zendaya – Deep Side Part for Red Carpet Glamour
Zendaya embraces old Hollywood elegance with a deep side part that highlights her cheekbones. Paired with voluminous waves or sleek curls, this look adds drama and sophistication. A deep side part works well for square and round face shapes, creating a slimming effect.
Hailey Bieber – Soft, Off-Center Part for a Casual Model-Off-Duty Look
Hailey Bieber’s effortless, off-center part is perfect for a low-maintenance yet stylish appearance. This parting style creates a more relaxed and natural look, ideal for wavy or slightly tousled hair. It’s great for everyday wear and suits a variety of face shapes.
Beyoncé – Voluminous Waves with a Deep Side Part
Beyoncé often rocks a deep side part with bouncy, voluminous waves, creating a bold and powerful statement look. This parting style enhances the body and movement of thick, curly, or wavy hair, making it perfect for those who love a glamorous, high-impact hairstyle.
Rihanna – Zig-Zag Part for Edgy, Trendy Styles
Rihanna is a trendsetter, and her zig-zag part is a perfect example of her edgy style. This playful and bold parting style adds volume and texture, making it great for those who love to experiment. The zig-zag part works well with both sleek and curly hairstyles, giving a fun, Y2K-inspired vibe.
From classic to trendy, these celebrity-inspired hair parts can help you refresh your look and find the perfect style that complements your face shape and personality.
9. FAQs – Your Hair Parting Questions Answered
Your hair part can dramatically change your appearance, but knowing which style suits you best can be tricky. Here are answers to some common questions about hair parting styles and how to choose the right one.
Can I change my natural part permanently?
Yes! While your hair naturally falls in a certain direction, you can train it to hold a new part over time. Start by parting your hair differently when it’s wet, then blow-dry in place using a brush to reinforce the new shape. Consistently styling your hair in the new direction will help it stay in place.
How do I determine which hair parting suits me best?
Identifying your face shape is the first step. Stand in front of a mirror and trace your face outline with a lip liner or use a measuring method to determine if it’s round, oval, square, heart, diamond, or long. Then, experiment with different partings to see what highlights your best features.
What parting style works best for hiding thinning hair?
A zig-zag part or a deep side part adds instant volume and camouflages sparse areas by distributing hair more evenly. You can also use volumizing products, root-lifting sprays, or extensions to create the illusion of thicker hair.
Can I wear extensions with any parting?
Yes! Clip-in, tape-in, and sew-in extensions can be adjusted to match any parting style. The key is to place the wefts strategically so they blend seamlessly with your natural hair, ensuring they remain undetectable.
What hair parting makes the face look slimmer?
A deep side part helps create angles that elongate the face and make it appear slimmer. Side-swept styles or curtain bangs paired with an off-center part can also soften facial features and add a flattering frame to the face.
By understanding your face shape and using the right techniques, you can switch up your hair part effortlessly and enhance your overall look.
10. Conclusion
Your hair part plays a major role in shaping your overall look, highlighting your best features, and adding dimension to your style. Whether you prefer a sleek middle part, a deep side part for extra volume, or a trendy zig-zag part, the right choice can enhance your natural beauty effortlessly.
Identifying your face shape helps in choosing the most flattering part, ensuring that it complements your features. Experimenting with different parting styles can instantly refresh your look, making even the simplest hairstyles feel new and exciting. If you want to add volume or enhance your parting, extensions and styling techniques like backcombing or using a root-lifting spray can create a seamless, natural effect.
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your part looking polished. A clean scalp, strategic extension placement, and the right styling products help maintain volume and prevent flatness. By using these simple tricks, you can achieve a flawless, well-defined part every day.
Ready to switch up your part and elevate your hair game? Try a new style today and see the difference!