From glitter and delicate gems to punk spirit and new wave hair, bold is the new style statement. Expression of individuality was taken to new heights at London’s Fashion Week. One striking trend that swept the runways and left us craving more was the side-sweep.

Electricity met decadence on the catwalks, and fashion-forward statements reminded us of yesterday’s hairstyles but done so much better. A deep part on one side with bangs and fringe and the side-sweep was the style you need to emulate if you want to be in this season. Luckily, it’s easy to do with just about any hair length.

How to manage a side-swept look

Short, long, curly, straight, wavy, and even shaved—any way you have your hair cut, there’s a way to style it with a side part, and that’s the look you’re going to want this season. 

Think classic Victoria Beckham’s side-swept bob and then more modern long side-swept Beckham hair. Yep, she’s got the look that everybody wants.

Let’s get to the point and address the one problem with side parts and side-swept hair—it falls in your face. There’s no denying it, and unless you’re blessed with hair that always behaves, you’re going to get annoyed with your hair falling in your face and eyes. 

So, how do you manage the look without giving up and throwing a bobby pin in your hair? (By the way, bedazzled bobby pins are a huge hit right now, so it’s totally acceptable to rely on one.) 

1. The cut 

Regular straight bangs just won’t cut it, so you need professional help to achieve a sexy side-swept look. That means if you really want this look, there has to be a level of commitment. Once you’ve made that decision, then it’s time to tell your stylist so they can have your hair land just the right way.

2. Start wet

The key to styling gorgeous side-swept bangs and fringe is starting wet and drying it. A blow dryer and good brush are essential for setting the stage. You’ll want to tackle your bangs first to encourage them to head in the right direction, deal with the rest later.

3. A little is a Lot

Since you’re not working with a lot of hair, you don’t need a lot of product. Just a tiny bit of volumizer rubbed in with your fingers should be enough.

4. Blow dryer down

Blow drying your hair upward will leave you looking like you’ve been through a wind tunnel, so try blowing from the top downward instead, and use your brush to create volume.

5. Flat iron

To finish the look, begin with a small section of hair for ironing. Start using the flat iron at the roots, pulling hair upward, and then work it away with a little flip at the end.

6. Hair spray

A firm holding hair spray can then be used to lock your look in place.

Side-sweep for all hair types

Polished, tousled, curly—it all works with a side-sweep. The key is getting used to moving that hair over to one side. People with thin hair are going to have an easier time training their locks to slide to the side and stay there. Unfortunately, they might have a harder time keeping it there, so a finishing spray would be essential.

For people with thick and/or curly hair, getting your hair to go a different direction will take patience and a lot of product. Play around with a few different pomades or even a good, old-fashioned mousse until you find something that will help your hair behave. Once it’s over there, it should stay there fairly reliably.

Final thoughts

The side-swept look is a huge hit all over, and it’s one that looks like it has staying power. It fits right in with today’s trends toward self-expression and personality being the hallmarks of style. Whether you love long and beachy waves, a trendy bob, or you’re going uber short for the season, the side-sweep gives you more drama.

There’s something sexy and unexpected about a side part, and even with the most unpolished hairstyles, it adds a level of class and sophistication. Give it a try, if you love it, then get in for a cut to help you hold the side-sweep with less frustration.