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Home • News

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center

When it comes to fierce hair, sometimes the smallest details can make the biggest impact. Case in point: try switching up your part and see what happens! Going from a center part to a side part -- or vice versa -- is an easy but wildly effective way to makeover your mane. And it only takes seconds! Need inspiration? Check out these superstar tress trendsetters and their shifting parts.
By Essence · Updated October 28, 2020
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01
Zoe Saldana

Zoe Saldana’s deep side part gives her an elegant, Old Hollywood feel, while her middle part is boho-chic.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
02
Tracee Ellis Ross

The actress proves that a subtle switch can make all the difference! She sweeps her curly bangs to one side for a dressy look, and creates a deep center part for a more casual feel.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
03
Sophisticated Lady

Tika Sumpter’s strong side part give her a look a flirty vibe, while her middle part is classic Upper East Side cool.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
04
Victoria’s Vixen

Whether she rocks a side or center part in her long, wavy locks, Victoria’s Secret Angel Selita Ebanks is always wildly sexy.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
05
Switching Sides

Nia Long’s side part adds a bit of edge to her shoulder-length ’do, while the middle part is a fresher, more youthful look.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
06
The Little Mermaid

Parted on the side, Melanie Fiona’s rippling waves give a mermaid effect, while her center-parted, low ponytail has a girly feel.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
07
Curly Girl

By simply adding a deep side part and side-swooping bangs, Kerry Washington gives her curls a sexy update.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
08
Uptown Girl

Keri Hilson goes from downtown chic to uptown girl simply by switching her party from the side to the center!

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
09
Glamour Girl

Ciara’s deep side part adds a pinup girl quality to her romantic ringlets, while a center part gives low-key glamour.

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
10
Tress Transformation

Chanel Iman goes from sultry seductress to giddy girl-next-door with one change of her part!

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center
11
Diva Do-over

Alicia Keys updates her full natural curls by moving her part a couple of inches! Which look do you think suits her best?

Hot Hair: Side vs. Center