From Bella Hadid to Olivia Dean—this "dated" hairstyle is set to make a strong return in 2026.
If there's a single word to capture the hair trends for winter 2026, it's nostalgia—think Old Hollywood hairstyles, pixie cuts, '60s baby bangs, '90s-inspired bobs, and swooping '80s side parts. The latter is somewhat unexpected, given the intense side-versus-middle part debate that had millennials in a frenzy over the past few years. Nonetheless, the style appears to be experiencing a revival, particularly as Gen Z stars like Olivia Dean and Olivia Rodrigo are frequently seen sporting deep side parts. Combined with voluminous '80s hair, this once "outdated" look is revitalizing itself, with experts predicting that its popularity will continue to grow in 2026.
"I believe the side part is poised for a major comeback," states celebrity hairstylist Benjamin Mohapi, founder of Benjamin Salon, in a release circulated to editors. "It hasn’t been prominent for a while, but with fashion advertisements and editorial shoots referencing the '80s, it's resurfacing among the trendsetters." Olivia Dean, the singer-songwriter and trendy figure, has emerged as a leading proponent of the '80s side-part comeback, making it a signature look for the 26-year-old artist. In November, Dean showcased a side part with soft, voluminous waves during performances at the 2025 ARIA Awards and Saturday Night Live. (And we can’t overlook her textured, swoopy side part on the cover of Who What Wear UK's Spring Issue last March.)
Another instance of the side part from Dean occurred at the Burberry show during London Fashion Week. Olivia Rodrigo also embraced the trend with a striking side part at the 2025 Academy Museum Gala, while Bella Hadid—who sparked a trend for blonde hair when she lightened her locks over the summer—unveiled a collarbone-length, swept-over cut for her latest Orebella Window2Soul campaign. Both Hadid's and Dean's styles are distinctly '80s—fluffy and tousled, creating an impression as if they styled their hair by running their fingers through it—while Rodrigo's version is slightly more refined. Yet, all the looks exude retro glamour with ample volume, the side parts lending a sophisticated touch to each hairstyle.
If you're looking to refresh your hairstyle this winter, simply changing your part is an easy way to make a statement without needing to commit to a completely new cut or color—ideal for special occasions (like holiday parties) when you want to stand out. "I wouldn’t be surprised if this trend soon spreads through the mainstream," Mohapi notes, making now the perfect moment to embrace this nostalgic style. While bouncy, gravity-defying roots are optional, they are highly encouraged.
**Shop Styling Products for Voluminous '80s Side Parts:**
- **Ouai Thickening & Volume Spray:** This lightweight spray provides thickness while also functioning as a heat protectant for temperatures up to 450°F.
- **Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray:** A classic that delivers a "lived-in" look for my hair consistently.
- **Chris McMillan The Glassy Smooth Blowdry Spray:**
- **Bellami Silk Seam Clip-In:** These clip-in extensions are excellent not just for added length but also for creating instant volume. In my view, Bellami's color matching is exceptional.
- **Crown Affair The Texturizing Air Dry Hair Mousse:** This airy mousse defines my 2c curls beautifully—an essential for air-drying days!
- **Rōz Root Lift Volumizing Hair Styling Spray:** You’ll be amazed at how much this fine mist enhances the bounciness of blowouts; my hair has never looked so voluminous since I added it to my routine.
- **T3 Airebrush Round One-Step Volumizing Hair Dryer Brush:** This blow-dry brush, beloved by editors, creates incredible volume at the crown.
- **Color Wow Raise the Root Thicken and Lift Spray:** For large, glamorous hair, nothing compares to Color Wow.
- **K18 Astrolift Reparative Volume Spray:** A product that not only adds thickness but also repairs damage? Count me in.
- **Kérastase Gloss Absolu Glaze Drops:** No blowout is truly complete without these shine-enhancing drops, which smooth frizz and make my hair look glossy.
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