8 Chic Hairstyles for Hair Parted in the Middle

The middle part is one of those classic style choices that never really goes out of fashion. Its straight, balanced line naturally frames the face, creating a look that feels both effortless and refined. And when it comes to variety, hairstyles for hair parted in the middle span everything from sleek, glossy updos to undone, lived-in waves, making it a look that’s as adaptable as it is timeless.

If you’re in need of fresh inspiration—or just want some guidance on how to style your middle part hair—keep scrolling. Ahead, we’ve rounded up eight hairstyles for hair parted in the middle that we love, along with tips for achieving a crisp, clean center part every time.

Classic and Timeless Middle Part Hairstyles

If you’re someone who likes to keep things simple, try one of these classic middle part hairstyles for an easy, put-together look.

Long and straight strands

Long hair with a middle part is a flattering choice for anyone seeking a style that frames their face. The simple style is balanced and effortless, and projects a subtle ‘70s-inspired vibe that feels endlessly cool. To get the look, prep your mane with a quality heat protectant, such as the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum Leave-In, then straighten your strands with a flat iron for a sleek finish.

Face-framing bob

There’s something about a crisp, blunt-cut bob that pairs perfectly with a clean middle part. The symmetrical style beautifully defines the contours of your face and strikes the perfect balance between bold and simple. After styling, spritz your hair with the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Glycolic + Gloss High Shine Leave-In Serum to give your short middle part hair an ultra-glossy finish.

Textured and Relaxed Middle Part Hairstyles

Textured hair—think waves and curls—can really benefit from the balanced, clean lines that a middle part provides. Keep scrolling for a few of our ways to rock a middle part with wavy hair.

Beachy waves

Lived-in, beachy waves are the perfect complement to a neat and tidy center part. If your hair tends to fall flat by midday, try prepping your strands with a volumizing leave-in, such as the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse. The lightweight formula gives lifeless hair volume for up to 24 hours without any stiffness or weigh-down.

Tousled messy bun

Keeping your part visible makes a classic messy bun feel casual and effortless. Plus, the laid-back style requires less effort to create than a traditional brushed-back updo. Simply part your hair as usual, then sweep your lengths back into a tousled knot at the back of your head. Secure the bun with bobby pins, then pull out a few pieces at the front for a flattering face-framing effect.

Playful and Edgy Middle Part Hairstyles

If you’re in the mood for something a bit unconventional, there are plenty of fun hairstyles for hair parted in the middle worth trying. Take a look at a couple of our favorites below.

Mini French braids

If you ask us, teensy-tiny braids make everything look cooler, and that includes a classic middle part. To get this look, part your hair as usual, then section out a small chunk of hair on either side of your part. Then, starting about a half-inch back from your hairline, begin French braiding the hair, adding strands from along your hairline as you go. Repeat the process on the other side for an easy and playful braided look perfect for day or night.

Bubble braids

Bubble braids aren’t actually braids—they’re ponytails divided at regular intervals with a hair tie or bead. Each section is then fluffed out, creating a bubble-like shape (hence the name). This is a great look for those with natural hair who have plenty of volume to work with. Plus, it’s customizable—you can create one big bubble braid at the back of your head, two pigtail bubble braids for a playful look, or arrange your mane into dozens of mini bubble braids, as shown here, for an ultra-voluminous look that lets your natural texture shine.

Sleek and Polished Middle Part Hairstyles

When paired with sleek, polished hair, a middle part feels downright elegant. Keep scrolling to see some of our favorite put-together hairstyles to pair with your middle part.

Slicked-back bun

A sleek low bun is elegant, timeless, and surprisingly versatile, working for a wide range of hair lengths and textures. To get the look, work a smoothing cream, like the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Anti-Frizz Slick-Back Hair Styling Cream, throughout your mane. Then, use a boar bristle brush to brush your hair back into a twisted bun at the nape of your neck. Secure the knot with bobby pins or an elastic for a chic look that’ll keep your hair off your face.

Bouncy blowout

If you have a middle part, hair with lots of volume and movement can help keep your look from appearing too stark. For this blowout, soft, lived-in waves are paired with a crisp center part and long curtain bangs to create an elegant look that feels sleek, but not stuffy.

How To Perfect Your Middle Part

Creating a clean middle part is pretty straightforward, but if you need help perfecting yours, follow this tutorial.

1. Wash and condition your hair

If you have a cowlick or tend to wear a side part, starting with damp hair can help ensure your center part stays put. To start, lather up with a shampoo and conditioner designed for your hair type and texture. Once you’re out of the shower, lightly blot your hair with a towel to remove excess moisture.

2. Detangle your lengths

Next, apply a detangling treatment, such as the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Moisture 21-in-1 Leave-In Conditioner, and work out any knots with your fingers or a wide-toothed comb. To help prevent damage, we recommend starting at the ends and gradually working your way up.

3. Use a rattail comb to part your hair

Once your hair is tangle-free, use a rattail comb to create a crisp center part, dividing your hair into two equal sections. If you have trouble finding the exact center of your head, try holding the comb vertically from the bridge of your nose toward your forehead. Where the comb intersects with your hairline is where you’ll want your part to begin.

4. Style as desired

Apply any leave-in treatments or styling aids you need, then style your hair as desired. Remember to use a heat protectant if you plan to blow-dry, curl, or flat-iron your hair.

5. Finish with hairspray for hold

To help keep your style—and your center part—in place, mist your finished look with a lightweight hairspray, such as the L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra-Strong Hold Hairspray. This beloved formula boosts shine, protects against frizz, and helps lock in your look all day without any stiffness, crunchiness, or residue.

FAQs About Middle Part Hairstyles

What haircut goes best with a middle part?

The symmetry of a middle part lends itself well to an array of haircuts, from short, blunt bobs to long, layered styles. When choosing a middle part haircut, it’s best to consider your personal preferences, styling routine, and goals.

Does hair look better parted in the middle or on the side?

Neither a middle part nor a side part is inherently better than the other—it’s a matter of preference. That being said, layered haircuts tend to pair best with a middle part, as the symmetry allows the layers to fall evenly on either side. Your face shape can also help you determine whether you should opt for a center part or a side part, as well as which hairstyles are most flattering for your features.

How do you style hair split in the middle?

To style hair parted in the center, detangle your hair, then use a rattail comb to create a crisp, defined part. From there, you can pull back your hair into a sleek ponytail, wear your hair down, or even experiment with playful hairstyles such as Dutch braids or bubble braids. If you typically wear your hair parted on the side, spritzing your part with a strong-hold hairspray can help keep your center part intact.

Does a middle part make you look younger or older?

A middle part in and of itself won’t make you look younger or older—but how you style your hair can. Ultra-polished updos, for example, tend to read as more mature, while playful styles like French braids or space buns tend to feel younger. With that said, you should always feel free to embrace whatever hairstyle you like.

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Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris