Yahoo Lifestyle 7 Best Middle Part Hairstyles, According to a Celebrity Stylist
Lately, a particular hairstyle has been quietly dominating the beauty scene thanks to its subtle yet striking nature. Celebrities like Zendaya, Selena Gomez and Bella Hadid alike have all embraced it, proving that sometimes less really is more. That’s right, you guessed it—the middle part hairstyle has made a resurgence.
A symbol of symmetry and polish in the world of hair, what makes this style so appealing is its ability to suit just about everyone. It works for a range of face shapes and hair textures, creating balance and framing your features in the most flattering way. Whether sleek or tousled, the middle part has a way of adding a touch of refinement that feels timeless yet modern.
Though it can be an adjustment moving away from your beloved side part, making the jump is totally worth it. Of course, both a middle and a side part each has its own benefits, but with a middle part, it “creates a sense of symmetry, elongating rounder face shapes and giving a more structured, fashion-forward look,” says celebrity stylist Sally Hershberger.
The middle part is a staple that’s as fresh as it is classic, offering a range of possibilities from simple everyday looks to sophisticated red-carpet styles. So if you’re looking to jump ship from the side-part, you’re just in luck. Here are seven of the best middle-part hairstyles to inspire your next ‘do.
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7 Best Middle Part Hairstyles, According to a Celebrity Stylist
1. Sleek Bob
Bobs are having a major moment right now, and a sleek version with a middle part is leading the charge. This style combines sharp, clean lines with just the right amount of softness, but the magic is in the precision.
“The sharp part and smooth texture create a sophisticated and polished look,” says Hershberger. “And the middle part enhances symmetry, while the blunt cut gives a modern and edgy feel.”
To get the look, blow-dry your hair straight, using a round brush for volume, then smooth it out with a flat iron for that sleek, glossy finish. And don’t forget the hair oil—we love Amika Superfruit Star—for extra shine.
With the middle part perfectly framing the face, it gives the cut an elevated, high-fashion edge, just like Kendall Jenner’s show-stopping look at the 2025 Oscar Party.
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2. Soft Waves
Soft waves are the ultimate romantic ‘do, and they’ve made a major comeback, thanks to stars like Meg Ryan. This style is all about volume and movement, with just enough texture to keep things laid-back and casual that is a flattering choice for most face shapes, says Hershberger.
To achieve those perfect waves, start by prepping your hair with a Function of Beauty curly hair spray for some grit and texture. Then, use a large-barrel curling iron to create loose, undone waves, making sure to alternate the direction of the curls for that natural, beachy look. Finish with a light hairspray to hold the shape and voilà! You’ve got a soft, tousled look that’s super sophisticated but is also perfectly imperfect.
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3. Slicked-Back Bun
A slicked-back bun is the epitome of cool. If you don’t believe us, just take it from resident tastemaker Hailey Bieber. This look is all about sleekness and control, with the hair pulled tight and smoothly secured into a clean, low bun that is perfectly polished.
The best part? It’s super easy to recreate. All you have to do is apply ELEVEN Australia Strong-Hold Pomade (or a similar product) to damp hair, combing it back into a tight ponytail. Twist the ponytail into a bun and secure it with bobby pins, then finish with a shine spray for that glossy, high-impact finish.
It’s a timeless style that oozes confidence and power, making it the go-to choice for anyone who wants to make a statement without saying a word.
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4. Long and Glossy
We all want to be Beyoncé. Sadly, there is only one of her—but we can at least mimic her signature long, glossy ‘do. The ultimate in sleek sophistication, the middle part acts as a frame, allowing the hair to fall symmetrically and giving the style a pristine finish. It also creates balance, drawing attention to the face while making the hair look fuller and more voluminous.
For this style, start by blow-drying the hair using a Tek round brush to add volume at the roots. A flat iron will help you get that glass-like finish, and a light serum will ensure that high-gloss shine that stays sleek all night long. The middle part anchors the style, bringing everything together for a classy, timeless finish.
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5. Beachy Waves
Beachy waves are always in style, but throw in a middle part, and you’ve got a whole new level of glam. The sleek, symmetric part not only adds balance but makes the waves feel more refined—like they’re intentionally messy, but still somehow perfectly styled. “It also has a natural face-framing effect, creating symmetry and enhancing features in a way that feels balanced and flattering,” says Hershberger.
To nail this style, spritz a texturizing spray onto damp hair for added volume, then use a curling wand to create relaxed, beachy waves. Finish with a light hairspray to lock it in place and… that’s it! It’s simple, yet seriously chic.
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6. Tousled Waves
Long, tousled waves like Dua Lipa’s have a way of looking oh-so glamorous. This style strikes the perfect balance between undone and polished, giving off a casual air. The waves have movement, but they’re not overly polished, so you still give off that free-spirited feel. It’s a style that feels both modern and timeless, equally at home on the red carpet or on a casual day out.
When styling, perfection is overrated—loose, messy curls are exactly what you’re going for. Finish with a spritz of dry shampoo or sea salt spray to add texture and body, then let the waves fall naturally for that effortlessly relaxed, lived-in look that’s equal parts cool and carefree.
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7. Quintessential Blowout
The bouncy blowout has stood the test of time, and for good reason. There’s something just so irresistible about a voluminous, perfectly shaped ‘do. It’s been a red carpet favorite for decades that’s often associated with Old Hollywood icons, but its modern-day revival keeps it as a go-to for any occasion.
Selena Gomez’s look perfectly illustrates why the blowout never goes out of style. With soft, bouncy curls and volume at the roots, this classic look adds fullness and movement, framing the face and giving hair a glamorous finish. The best part? It’s versatile.
Whether you're heading to a brunch, a night out or a special event, a bouncy blowout instantly elevates any look, making it a fail-safe for anyone looking to add a little extra oomph to their hair.
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Source
Sally Hershberger, celebrity stylist
