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    1. Beauty

    The Middle Part Is Still at the Center of Summer's Biggest Hair Trends

    The hairstyle celebs turn to time and time again.

    Ariel Wilson's avatar
    By Ariel Wilson
    Published 16 May 2025 In News

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    Michelle Williams, Barbara Palvin, and Bella Hadid wearing middle part hairstyles.
    (Image credit: Getty Images)
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    It’s one of the greatest debates of our time—a seemingly endless quest for an answer everyone can agree on. So deeply woven into the fabric of society that your choice can make or break your social standing. The question, you might be wondering, is this: which hairstyle reigns supreme—the middle or side part? Hollywood has sent a clear message this week, and the middle part has won the vote.

    As evidenced by numerous celebrities lately, middle parts are simply not going anywhere anytime soon. Let’s dive into a few examples, shall we?

    Bella Hadid wearing a middle part.

    Bella Hadid leaving Morley's Chicken Shop after a Chicken Shop interview in Brick Lane before returning to her London Hotel.

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Today, May 16, Bella Hadid was spotted in London with her newly blonde hair down, curled, and flowing in the wind as she walked. The style perfectly framed her face thanks to a middle part that created a sort of faux curtain bang.

    Barbara Palvin wearing a middle part.

    Barbara Palvin is seen at Hotel Martinez during day four of the 78th Cannes Film Festival.

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    Over in France, Barbara Palvin is attending the Cannes Film Festival, where she was spotted in a chic updo on her way to the festivities of the day. Her side part mirrored Hadid’s as it also allowed for her bangs to frame her face; however, instead of hers being curled, they were only slightly waved to match her edgy two-piece skirt suit and pointed-toe black heels.

    Michelle WIlliams wearing a middle part.

    Michelle Williams is seen outside NBC Studios on May 15, 2025 in New York City.

    (Image credit: Getty Images)

    In New York City, singer and Broadway actress Michelle Williams took her side part out for a spin as she paid a visit to the set of Access Hollywood. Similar to Hadid’s, her hair was curled to perfection; however, instead of a buttery blonde, William’s hair was a gorgeous jet black shade, which perfectly complemented the black-and-white polka dot Abbyke Domina dress that she wore.

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    I personally subscribe to the middle-part narrative, so I’m particularly happy that Hollywood has fallen in line. Still, your preferred hairstyle, like any other part of your beauty and personal-care routine, is just that—uniquely individual to you and varies from person to person.

    All of this to say that while the middle part is undoubtedly having a moment right now, there’s no wrong way to do your hair. Take what you want from this trend and leave what you don’t. But if you do want to hop on board, keep reading to see how you can make this simple trend your own.

    Marie Claire Newsletter

    Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!

    By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.

    3 Pieces Comb Set for Teasing, Edge & Back Brushing - Rat Tail & Edge Combs for Styling Women's Hair (black)

    Goiple
    3 Piece Comb Set for Teasing, Edge & Back Brushing
    $4
    $3.89 AT AMAZON

    A middle part works with any hairstyle, but not every tool does. Whether you want a simple part—or want to perfect the look while slicking back an updo—this set is perfect thanks to the rat tails on the ends of the brush and comb.

    Clairol Colorstrong Permanent Zero Ammonia Hair Dye, 2.8 Blue Black - Desert Nights Hair Color, Pack of 1

    Clairol
    Colorstrong Permanent Zero Ammonia Hair Dye
    $14
    $13.97 AT AMAZON

    With a style this simple, one of the easiest ways to make your middle part stand out is to have a fun hair color. For me, this means opting for a jet or blue-black á la Williams, so I'll be keeping this box hair dye from Clairol on hand for an easy at-home DIY session.

    Ariel Wilson
    Ariel Wilson
    Social Links Navigation
    Beauty Writer

    Ariel Wilson is the Beauty Writer at Marie Claire. Previously the associate beauty editor at PS, she also has bylines in InStyle, Forbes Vetted, Women's Health, and more.

    Shaped by her experience in research, social sciences, and the non-profit sector, Ariel enjoys looking at beauty from a sociocultural lens, looking to avenues like politics, culture, and the arts, to inform her views on the space. That being said, as a true beauty-product obsessive, testing the latest items to hit the market, keeping up with trends, and meeting industry icons, will always be her favorite part of working in the beauty space.

    When she's not working, Ariel can be found hanging out with her husband and loving on their two cat daughters: Cow and Chicken.

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