The High-Fashion Side Part: Perfect for Oblong Faces and Type 3A Hair

In the world of hairstyling geometry, finding the perfect equilibrium between face shape and hair texture is the holy grail. For individuals possessing the unique combination of an oblong face shape and Type 3A curly hair, the search for a flattering, modern, and manageable style often leads to a single, sophisticated solution: the high-fashion side part. This isn't your standard casual part; it is a deliberate, deep, and architectural styling choice that transforms facial proportions and elevates natural curl patterns.

Type 3A hair, characterized by large, loose S-shaped spirals, offers natural volume and movement that many strive to replicate with hot tools. However, without the right structural cut and styling direction, these curls can weigh down the face, elongating an already long visage. The high-fashion side part acts as a visual interrupt, breaking the vertical lines of an oblong face while leveraging the natural bounce of 3A curls to create width and drama. This style has dominated runways and editorial spreads because it exudes an effortless glamour that looks intentional rather than accidental.

This comprehensive guide explores why this specific pairing is a match made in styling heaven. We will delve into the mechanics of the cut, the science of Type 3A hair care, and the step-by-step styling techniques required to achieve that glossy, high-fashion finish. Whether you are looking to refresh your current look or undergo a dramatic transformation, understanding the synergy between the deep side part and your natural texture is the first step toward hair mastery.

Decoding the Anatomy: Type 3A Hair and Oblong Faces

To understand why this hairstyle works so effectively, one must first understand the canvas. Type 3A hair is the bridge between wavy and tightly coiled hair. It features distinct, loopy S-pattern curls that are approximately the circumference of a piece of sidewalk chalk. This hair type is prone to frizz and can lose definition easily if not moisturized, but its greatest asset is its body. Unlike Type 2 waves that might fall flat, or Type 4 coils that shrink significantly, Type 3A retains length while providing substantial lateral volume.

An oblong face shape (often referred to as rectangular) is characterized by a face that is longer than it is wide. The forehead, cheekbones, and jawline are roughly the same width, creating a long vertical line. The styling goal for this face shape is typically to minimize vertical length and add horizontal width to create the illusion of an oval. Center parts can be detrimental to oblong faces because they draw the eye down the center line, exaggerating the length of the face and often creating a "curtain" effect that hides the cheekbones.

When you combine Type 3A hair with an oblong face, you have a unique opportunity. The natural volume of the curls provides the necessary width to balance the face's length. However, if the hair is all one length or parted down the middle, the weight of the curls can drag the features downward. This is where the side part becomes a critical tool. By shifting the visual weight to one side, you create asymmetry. This asymmetry distracts from the vertical length and draws the eye across the face, highlighting the eyes and cheekbones rather than the jawline or forehead height.

The Geometry of the High-Fashion Side Part

The "high-fashion" distinction is crucial here. We are not talking about a subtle, accidental part that happens when you flip your hair. A high-fashion side part is deep—often starting above the arch of the eyebrow or even further over, aligned with the outer corner of the eye. This dramatic sweep of hair creates an immediate lifting effect. It creates a "swoop" of volume on one side (the heavy side) and a sleeker, more exposed look on the other (the light side).

For an oblong face, this geometry is transformative. The heavy side of the part introduces massive volume and texture around the cheekbone and eye level, effectively widening the face visually. The diagonal line created by the hair crossing the forehead acts as a visual shortening mechanism, cutting down the height of the forehead without the commitment of bangs. This creates a more balanced, proportional appearance.

Furthermore, the high-fashion side part adds an element of architectural interest. Type 3A curls, when swept deeply to one side, stack upon themselves. This stacking creates a cascade of spirals that looks luxurious and dense. On the "light" side of the part, the hair can be tucked behind the ear or pinned back, exposing the jawline and neck. This contrast between the voluminous curls on one side and the sleek silhouette on the other is a hallmark of editorial styling, offering a look that is both wild and controlled.

The Cut: Structuring Layers for Maximum Impact

Achieving this look starts in the salon chair. A high-fashion side part cannot be executed successfully on a blunt, one-length cut, especially with Type 3A hair. If the hair is all one length, the deep part will result in a pyramid shape—flat at the roots and triangular at the ends—which is unflattering for oblong faces. The cut requires strategic layering designed to support the side-swept structure.

Professional stylists will typically recommend long, internal layers. For Type 3A hair, slide cutting or "carving" is often preferred over blunt cutting. This technique removes bulk from the interior of the hair without compromising the length, allowing the curls to puzzle together rather than stacking heavily. Face-framing layers are also essential. These should start around the cheekbone or lip level to ensure that when the hair is parted deeply, the shorter pieces fall across the forehead and frame the eyes, rather than hanging limp.

It is vital to communicate to the stylist that the hair will be worn primarily in a deep side part. The stylist may cut the hair while it is dry and styled in that part to ensure the layers fall correctly. If the hair is cut with a center part and then flipped to the side, one side may appear significantly longer or disjointed. An asymmetrical cut, where the hair is intentionally slightly longer on the heavy side of the part, can also enhance the high-fashion aesthetic and ensure the curls sit perfectly when swept over.

Styling the Look: Products and Techniques

The magic of Type 3A hair lies in product application and drying techniques. To achieve the high-fashion side part, the goal is defined, glossy curls with root volume on the heavy side and control on the light side. The process begins in the shower. Hydration is key for 3A curls, so a sulfate-free moisturizing shampoo and a slip-heavy conditioner are non-negotiable.

The Application Process:

• Prep: While the hair is soaking wet, apply a leave-in conditioner. Establish the deep side part immediately using a rat-tail comb. Align the part with the arch of your brow.

• Define: Apply a curl defining cream or a light gel. For the high-fashion look, we want definition without the "wet" crunch. Rake the product through with fingers to encourage clumps.

• The Swoop: On the heavy side of the part, lift the roots away from the scalp. You can use root clips to hold the hair in an upward, swooping direction while it dries. This is critical for oblong faces, as flat roots will elongate the face.

• The Tuck: On the lighter side, apply a slightly stronger hold gel or styling paste to smooth the hair down and back. Tuck it behind the ear. For an editorial edge, use visible bobby pins or decorative clips to secure this side tightly against the head.

Drying: Air drying is an option, but for maximum volume and that polished editorial finish, diffusing is recommended. Flip the head upside down to dry the roots first, then gently cup the lengths of the hair in the diffuser bowl. Do not touch the curls with your hands while they are wet to avoid frizz. Once the hair is 100% dry, you can "scrunch out the crunch" (break the gel cast) with a lightweight hair oil to add shine and softness.

Volume Management and Frizz Control

One of the challenges with Type 3A hair is managing frizz, especially when creating a deep side part where hair is manipulated against its natural fall. Frizz can ruin the clean lines required for a high-fashion look. The key is moisture balance. Humectants (ingredients that draw moisture in) are great, but in high humidity, they can cause frizz. In these climates, use anti-humidity sealants or serums as a final step.

Volume management is about placement. For an oblong face, you want volume at the sides, not necessarily at the crown. Too much height at the top of the head will elongate the face further. When diffusing or fluffing the hair, focus on expanding the curls horizontally around the cheek and jaw area. Use a hair pick to gently lift the roots on the heavy side of the part outward rather than upward.

If the curls become too undefined or frizzy throughout the day, avoid brushing them. Instead, mix a small amount of water and conditioner in a spray bottle, mist the frizzy area, and twirl the wayward curl around your finger to reshape it. This spot-treatment preserves the rest of the style while correcting imperfections.

Nighttime Maintenance: Preserving the Part

Type 3A curls are delicate and can easily flatten or tangle overnight. Preserving a deep side part requires a specific nighttime routine. The standard "pineapple" (gathering hair loosely at the top of the head) might disturb the deep part line. Instead, consider a modified approach.

Use a silk or satin bonnet or pillowcase—this is mandatory for curly hair health to reduce friction. To preserve the side part, you can loosely pin the curls in their side-swept formation using large, creaseless clips or scrunchies. Alternatively, braid the hair loosely to the side to maintain the directionality of the style. In the morning, shake the hair out and let gravity do the work. You may need to refresh the root volume on the heavy side with a quick blast of steam or a root-lifting spray.

Variations for Different Occasions

The high-fashion side part is incredibly versatile. While the standard loose look is perfect for daily wear, variations can adapt the style for formal events or professional settings.

• The Wet Look: A major trend on 2026 runways. Use a high-shine gel mixed with oil to slick the roots down heavily on both sides, keeping the deep part, but allowing the ends to remain dry and fluffy. This creates a dual-texture look that is ultra-modern.

• The Hollywood Wave: For Type 3A hair, this involves brushing out the curls gently after they are dry to create a unified, soft wave pattern that flows seamlessly to one side. This is classic glamour and pairs beautifully with the structural balance needed for oblong faces.

• The Faux-Undercut: Tightly braid the hair on the "light" side of the part (the side with less hair) flat against the scalp, leading back to the nape of the neck. Let the heavy side flow freely. This adds an edgy, punk-inspired element to the look while maximizing the face-widening asymmetry.

Expert Tips for Success

Find Your Good Side: Everyone has a "good side" usually determined by the direction of natural hair growth or facial symmetry. Try parting your hair on both sides to see which one allows the curls to lift naturally at the root. Working with* a cowlick can create amazing natural volume.

• Don't Fear the Scissors: If your ends are damaged or straight, the curls won't bounce, and the side part will look heavy. Regular trims every 8-10 weeks are essential to keep the Type 3A spiral springy.

• Layering Products: Follow the LOC (Liquid, Oil, Cream) or LCO method depending on your hair's porosity. High porosity hair usually benefits from creams and oils to seal moisture in.

• The Zig-Zag Part: If a straight line shows too much scalp or looks too severe, try a slight zig-zag part with the tail of a comb. This hides the scalp and adds volume right at the root line, making the hair look thicker.

• Makeup Pairing: Since one side of your face is more exposed, use this opportunity to highlight your cheekbones with contour or blush. A statement earring on the exposed ear balances the heavy volume on the opposite side.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will a deep side part make my oblong face look longer? No, quite the opposite. A center part leads the eye vertically, emphasizing length. A deep side part creates a diagonal line across the face and adds horizontal volume, which breaks up the vertical length and balances the face shape.

2. How do I stop my hair from falling back into the middle? Training your hair takes time. Blow-dry or diffuse your hair in the new direction from wet to 100% dry. Use root clips while drying to "set" the hair in the new direction. Over time, the hair follicles will adapt to the new weight distribution.

3. Is Type 3A hair suitable for short bobs with a side part? Absolutely. A chin-length or collarbone-length bob with a deep side part is incredibly flattering for oblong faces. It adds significant width exactly where it is needed—at the jawline and cheeks.

4. Can I use a curling iron to touch up my 3A curls? Yes. Sometimes natural curls can be unpredictable. Use a curling wand with a barrel size similar to your natural curl pattern (usually 3/4 inch to 1 inch) to define pieces around the face or top layer that have become frizzy or lost their shape. Always use a heat protectant.

5. What is the best product for root volume on the heavy side? A volume powder or a texture spray applied to dry roots is excellent. For wet styling, a mousse applied at the roots provides lift without the weight of heavy creams.

Conclusion

The high-fashion side part is more than just a trend; it is a strategic stylistic choice that harmonizes the natural beauty of Type 3A curls with the elegant proportions of an oblong face. By understanding the geometry of face shapes and the physics of curly hair, you can curate a look that is both sophisticated and uniquely yours. This style offers the perfect blend of volume, definition, and asymmetry, proving that you don't need to fight your natural texture to achieve a runway-worthy aesthetic. Embrace the volume, commit to the deep part, and let your curls do the talking. For the best results, consult with a stylist who specializes in curly cuts to tailor the layers specifically to your curl pattern and lifestyle.