The men’s 3:7 hairstyle, often called the side part or a gentleman’s part, is both timeless and versatile. Its structured look combines a professional finish with a dash of effortless charm, making it a popular choice for men aiming to blend style and sophistication. However, as with any hairstyle, the suitability of the 3:7 style can depend greatly on face shape. In this guide, we’ll explore which face shapes work best with the 3:7 hairstyle, explaining how to adapt this look to highlight your best features.
Understanding the Men’s 3:7 Hairstyle
What Is the 3:7 Hairstyle?
The 3:7 hairstyle is a classic side-part cut in which hair is parted with a 3:7 ratio, meaning one side is fuller than the other. The cut allows for some volume on top and can be styled in multiple ways, whether slicked down for a polished appearance or tousled for a more relaxed look. The defining characteristic is the clear side parting, which frames the face and adds structure.
Why Is the 3:7 Style Popular?
The 3:7 hairstyle has remained popular because of its adaptability. It works well for both casual and formal settings, offers a flattering structure to many face shapes, and can be personalized to fit various hair textures and lengths. The cut exudes a clean, put-together aesthetic, giving an impression of professionalism and care.
How Face Shape Affects Hairstyle Suitability
Importance of Choosing a Style Based on Face Shape
Different face shapes carry unique proportions and angles that can either be enhanced or downplayed with the right hairstyle. For example, certain styles can lengthen a round face, soften a square jawline, or balance out an elongated face. Choosing a hairstyle that aligns with your face shape ensures a more flattering and cohesive look.
Face Shapes Overview
Before we dive into which face shapes work best with the 3:7 style, let’s quickly review the primary male face shapes:
- Oval Face – Balanced proportions with a rounded jawline.
- Round Face – Full cheeks with a rounded jawline, often without strong angles.
- Square Face – Strong jawline and broad forehead with defined angles.
- Rectangle (Oblong) Face – Longer than it is wide, with a straighter line from forehead to jaw.
- Diamond Face – Narrow forehead and chin with broader cheekbones.
- Heart Face – Wider forehead tapering down to a narrower jawline and chin.
Best Face Shapes for the 3:7 Hairstyle
1. Oval Face
Why It Works: The oval face shape is often considered the most versatile, as its balanced proportions allow for a wide range of styles. The 3:7 hairstyle suits an oval face because it maintains this balance while adding definition to the face. The side part creates a subtle framing effect, emphasizing the face’s symmetry without overwhelming its natural shape.
Styling Tips:
- Keep the volume on top relatively controlled for a clean look.
- Opt for a medium length on the sides for a neat, polished finish.
- Avoid too much height, as excessive volume may elongate the face more than desired.
2. Square Face
Why It Works: The square face shape is known for its strong jawline and defined features, which pair well with the 3:7 hairstyle. The side part softens the angularity of the jawline, while the added volume on top complements the overall structure. The result is a balanced look that emphasizes masculinity while remaining polished.
Styling Tips:
- Avoid overly short sides; a medium fade or taper is ideal.
- Experiment with textured layers on top to soften the square angles.
- Consider adding a bit of lift at the front to elongate the face slightly.
3. Rectangle (Oblong) Face
Why It Works: For those with a rectangular face shape, the 3:7 hairstyle can help balance length by adding width. This style adds volume to the sides, helping to create the illusion of a shorter face. By avoiding a flat, slicked-down look, the side part can bring softness to the elongated structure of the rectangle face.
Styling Tips:
- Keep the length on top moderate to prevent further elongation.
- Opt for a wider parting that adds more dimension to the sides.
- Lightly tousle or add a wave to the top for a softer finish.
4. Diamond Face
Why It Works: Diamond face shapes have prominent cheekbones and a narrow chin and forehead. The 3:7 hairstyle works well with this shape because the side part balances the cheekbones and draws attention to the eyes. By adding volume at the top and maintaining a bit of fullness on the sides, the 3:7 style helps create a harmonious silhouette.
Styling Tips:
- Use a textured finish on top to add softness and volume.
- Keep the sides full rather than closely cropped to complement the cheekbones.
- Avoid very short lengths on the sides to maintain balance with the forehead and jawline.
Face Shapes That May Need Adjustments for the 3:7 Hairstyle
1. Round Face
Why Adjustments Are Needed: Round faces typically lack the angularity that the 3:7 style naturally complements. However, this style can work with a few modifications. A slightly off-center part and more height on top can elongate the face, making it appear less round. Adding volume at the crown draws the eye upward and creates the illusion of a longer face shape.
Styling Tips:
- Opt for higher volume on top, with the sides shorter to create a tapering effect.
- Avoid an overly rounded or slick finish; use a matte styling product for texture.
- Experiment with a 2:8 part to add an asymmetrical balance.
2. Heart Face
Why Adjustments Are Needed: Heart-shaped faces are broader at the forehead and narrower at the jawline. While the 3:7 style can work well, it may require a bit of customization to soften the forehead area. A slightly wider parting and medium-length sides will balance the look, helping the hairstyle flow naturally with the face’s shape.
Styling Tips:
- Add a slight wave or texture on top to soften the forehead area.
- Keep the sides moderately long to draw attention away from the width at the top.
- Avoid severe partings or very short lengths on the sides, as these may exaggerate the forehead width.
How to Style the 3:7 Hairstyle for Your Face Shape
Basic Steps for the 3:7 Style
Parting the Hair: Use a comb to create a 3:7 ratio side part, with one side carrying more volume than the other.
Setting the Length: Choose a length that complements your face shape; for most, medium-length sides and slightly longer on top works best.
Adding Volume: Apply a light-hold mousse or styling cream to damp hair before blow-drying. Use a round brush to add volume at the crown.
Finishing Touches: Use a matte styling product or pomade to set the style in place. Opt for a natural finish that complements the face shape.
Styling Tips by Face Shape
Oval and Diamond Faces: Go for a natural finish with minimal height, allowing the side part to frame the face.
Square and Rectangle Faces: Focus on textured layers to add dimension without excess height.
Round and Heart Faces: Aim for more height on top and keep sides slightly shorter to balance width and create elongation.
Choosing the Right Products for the 3:7 Hairstyle
- Mousse or Volume Spray – For fine hair or those needing extra volume at the crown.
- Pomade – Ideal for creating a polished look with a moderate hold.
- Texturizing Spray – Helps add volume and a bit of rugged texture, particularly for square and diamond face shapes.
- Matte Clay – Gives a natural, no-shine finish and is great for round and heart-shaped faces looking for added texture without the glossy look.
Conclusion
The 3:7 hairstyle can be a stunning, versatile choice for a range of face shapes when tailored correctly. While oval, square, rectangle, and diamond face shapes naturally complement this style, those with round or heart-shaped faces can still make it work with a few adjustments. Understanding your face shape and adapting the 3:7 hairstyle to enhance your best features will ensure a balanced, flattering result that stands out in any setting.
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