The 90s delivered an iconic hairstyle — the middle part haircut. The good news is, it’s back, and we can embrace the nostalgia of this hairstyle, with a modern twist.
Whether you're more laid-back or chasing the latest trends to refresh your style, the middle part haircut could be for you. Want to know if you can pull it off? You're in the right place.
We’ve compiled our 20 stand-out middle part styles to inspire your next visit to the barber — are you ready to try out something nostalgic, yet new? Let’s get started, shall we?
What is the Middle Part Haircut?
The middle part haircut is all about that distinct parting, splitting your hair down the center of your head for a look that's both nostalgic and sharp. Short hair? It’ll give you a fresh edge. Long hair? Think laid-back and cool. Somewhere in between? A distinctly modern look that you can wear to express yourself.
You might recognize these 90’s middle part hairstyles from the rom-com heartthrobs and boybands from back in the day. That’s the beauty of the middle part haircut — it’s a versatile style that virtually anyone with any hair type can pull off.
This style is back on top after taking a breather for a few years.
20 of The Best Middle Part Hairstyles
Need some inspiration? Check out our favorite middle part hairstyles below.
1. The Short Middle Part Haircut
The short middle part is a welcome twist to the classic middle part. Keeping it short means less fuss but lots of style. It's for those who want a fresh look without going too extreme.
Best for…
Square or oval faces with straight or wavy hair. Low maintenance but high impact, this cut's got you covered. This is the no-nonsense choice if you've got places to be – whether it's the office or the bar.
2. The Longer Middle Part Haircut
Laid-back and fuss-free, the longer middle part haircut takes you back to '90s grunge and surfer vibes but in a fresh, modern way.
Best for…
Got a more oval or elongated face? This one's for you. Ideal for straight, wavy or curly hair, this style suits the laid-back, creative visionary who isn't afraid to try something new.
3. The Textured Middle Part
This one's perfect if you love a little more complexity. Your hair's not flat — it's got some wave, curl or even a little bit of controlled chaos. Express your individuality by adding texture to your cut.
Best for…
It suits any face shape and works well with straight, curly or wavy hair. It’s a perfect all-rounder whether you’re in the office or casual hangouts. To achieve this look, grab some of our Texturizing Cream and work a small amount into towel-dried hair for a medium hold and natural finish. Use your fingers to shape and define the texture.
4. The Buzzed Sides Middle Part
If you’re feeling adventurous, keep the top long and middle-parted while buzzing the sides for a clean look that’s right in between classic and modern. Editor’s tip: For more inspiration, check out our guide to Short Sides Long Top Haircuts here.
Best for…
This style is best for square or oval faces and straight hair, creating that sharp contrast that works well for any occasion; formal or casual.
5. The Middle Part with Bro Flow
Fuse the casual allure of the bro flow (or just flow) with the classic symmetry of a middle part for an effortlessly stylish look. While the bro flow naturally shapes around your face, the middle part adds a touch of definition. It's the best of both worlds, really.
Best for…
This style is versatile and suits most face shapes, but it's particularly striking on oval and elongated faces. Textured hair is a plus, giving the style more volume and movement. Ideal for someone who's cool and laid-back and who wants that effortlessly styled look.
6. The Layered Middle Part
This cut incorporates layers for a dynamic, flowing look. Layers add movement and life to thin hair and welcomed definition for thicker hair.
Best for…
It’s great for oval faces and most hair types. Layers are perfect for those who like to add movement and look sharp with minimal effort.
7. The Faded Middle Part
The fade blends from short at the sides to longer at the top, meeting in a defined middle part. It’s a fresh take, combining elements from the fade and the classic middle part.
Best for…
Square and oval faces, you're up. This look works well with straight or wavy hair and suits the stylish urbanite who’s always on the move.
8. The Undercut Middle Part
The undercut takes away the bulk from the sides and back, putting the focus squarely on the middle part on top. Striking.
Best for…
Best for round and oval faces with any hair type. A perfect style for someone daring and adventurous who isn’t scared to make a hair statement.
9. The Middle Part with Dreads
Combine the iconic middle part with dreadlocks for a modern look. The dreads hang down from a clearly defined middle part, giving a unique twist to both styles.
Best for…
This style is perfect for the individualistic person who values tradition but loves to innovate. It complements a variety of face shapes, particularly oval and elongated ones. This style is ideal for those with coarser hair types who are looking for a long-term style commitment.
10. The Messy Middle Part
Sometimes, a bit of a mess is good. This one's all about letting your hair do its own thing while keeping that signature middle part. For the full lowdown on this laid-back look, check out our guide to Men’s Short Messy Hairstyles.
Best for…
It works for most face shapes and is ideal for wavy to curly hair. Create a bohemian, relaxed style with this purposely messy look.
11. The Pompadour Middle Part
A voluminous top with a middle part adds retro flair to this timeless style, blending old-school elegance with modern charm.
Best for…
It looks great on square faces and straight or wavy hair. This style is perfect for someone who has a taste for the classics but wants a modern take.
12. The Curly Middle Part
If you've got curls, why not show them off? Keep the middle part defined and let those curls shine.
Best for…
Round or oval faces can pull this off, and obviously, curly hair is a must. This is an ideal style to embrace natural texture and make your curls the hero of your hairstyle.
13. The Tousled Middle Part
This version is all about creating a wind-swept, lived-in look. It's the middle part, but more playful.
Best for…
Suitable for any face shape and wavy or curly hair, this is a perfect style for the carefree among us who can roll straight from a day at the beach to a night out with friends.
14. The Angular Middle Part
Instead of going straight down the middle, the parting is at a slight angle. It's a subtle difference that makes a big impact.
Best for…
Oval and square faces can best rock this style, and it works with any hair type.
15. The Wet Look Middle Part
Styled to look wet and fresh, this style brings a glossy finish to the traditional middle part.
Best for…
Square or oval faces and straight or wavy hair will shine with this look. To achieve this wet look, apply some of our Shine Pomade for a high-shine, polished finish.
16. The Side-Swept Middle Part
The hair is parted in the middle but swept to one side for asymmetry and flair. Suave yet effortless. This is why we like it.
Best for…
It suits most face shapes and any hair type — a versatile style that can be mixed up for any occasion.
17. The Braided Middle Part
Embrace the texture of your natural hair while adding a twist with the braided middle part. Incorporate intricate braids along the centerline — like cornrows, box braids or simpler styles — to elevate your look and make your middle part the focal point.
Best for…
This style is particularly great for curly hair and suits most face shapes, especially elongated or oval features. It’s an excellent choice for someone looking to mix traditional and modern elements, perhaps someone who appreciates artistic or bohemian flair.
18. The Slicked-Back Middle Part
This one takes the middle part and slicks it back for a more formal, sleek look. It's the middle part, with a black-tie twist.
Best for…
Square and oval faces, you're in the spotlight. This style is especially suited for straight hair. To achieve this look, use our Classic Pomade to slick back your hair, giving it that smooth, shiny finish. Ideal for the refined gent, whether he's in a boardroom or at a black-tie event.
19. The Fringed Middle Part
To achieve this style, the bangs are kept long and blend into the rest of the hair, framing the face while keeping the middle part intact.
Best for…
Great for round faces and straight or wavy hair. Add some youthful energy to your look with this unique style.
20. The Mini-Mullet Middle Part
Yes, the mullet’s making a comeback, and you can combine it with a middle part for extra impact.
Best for…
Oval and elongated faces can rock this look, and it works well with straight or wavy hair. Experiment with your style and embrace this old-school classic.
What’s holding you back?
You've got the lowdown on the middle part haircut and the know-how to make it your own. Whether you're looking to switch things up for a special occasion or ready to redefine your everyday style, the middle part haircut has got you covered.
From your face shape to your lifestyle, it's a cut that adapts to you, not the other way around. So, take the plunge, master the look and let the world meet the new you.
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