Long shunned and banished to the early aughts, the so-called “Older Sister Side Part” hairstyle is so, so back. We called it as a key beauty trend this season from the catwalks for spring summer 2025 and beyond: Saint Laurent’s side parts were brought with serious business in both cropped forms and with flowing, shiny waves by hair stylist Duffy, paired with statement suits. At Chanel’s 2026 Cruise presentation, lead hair stylist Anthony Turner coiffed some gleaming, razor-sharp side parts ready for Mediterranean lounging. At the 2025 Met Gala, Hailey Bieber opted to side part her effortless waves, while everyone from Sabrina Carpenter to Bella Hadid has been playing around with their part.
And while the ongoing clean girl trend has favored the symmetry of a middle part, the side parting offers something that can be both an elevated detail and a playful subversion of form. Regardless: Millennials, rejoice. The “Older Sister Side Part” is inspired, of course, by the cool, effortless silhouette of the eldest sibling, and it’s continuing its comeback in various forms. Here’s how you can keep styling it in a way that doesn’t feel like a tired out nostalgia hit.
Why the “The Older Sister Side Part” is hot right now
A big sister cultivates a nonchalant aura, luxuriating in the wisdom of her rank and the freedom of the elder sister’s status. The resulting hair look? It’s preppy and strong. Separate the hair with a parting that’s slightly off to the side—straight or more blurred, it’s up to you—which creates a totally new look without having to reach for the scissors or hair dye.
Adopted by some of cinema’s greatest women, we’re looking to Mean Girls’s Regina George, The Devil Wears Prada’s number one assistant Emily, and Trinity of the Matrix megaverse. These are side parts that guarantee charisma and confidence, emulating the assertive energy of an older sister.
Photo: Getty Images
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