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If the 20-year trend cycle (a fashion concept that refers to how styles repeat themselves every two decades) is to be believed, the time is ripe for all things Y2K. And by the looks of metallic fabrics on the red carpet, butterfly clips all over TikTok, and low-rise jeans galore, the 2000s really are back, baby! However, the resurgence of these early aughts trends might not be exactly how you remember them. In the 2020s, they have an updated flavor that marries styles from the past and present.
There hasn’t just been a Y2K fashion renaissance, but an early 2000s beauty revival, as well. Case in point: thin eyebrows, ultra-glossy lips, and chunky highlights are just some of the aesthetics that have gone viral on social media recently. Hair is where things get particularly fun, with styles including spiky buns, zigzag parts, and baby braids—the more playful the better. In sum, eccentric 2000s hairstyles are deserving of their moment in the limelight again.
Take it from Hollywood’s biggest A-listers: for Kendall Jenner, no casual outing is complete without a claw clip. Meanwhile, Doja Cat knew her 2022 Grammys look wouldn’t be complete without platinum blonde lengths spiked to the heavens. And Dua Lipa reached for none other than a hair crimper for the Argylle premiere.
If you’re still on the fence about the resurgence of 2000s beauty, though, allow this guide to ease you into it. Ahead, check out some of the most popular Y2K hairstyles that are back, better than ever, and worth a try.
Face-Framing Updos
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While sleek updos will always have their time and place, there’s just something about taking two random strands of hair from the front of your head to resemble bangs that makes buns and ponytails feel complete. Bangs or not, these thin face-framing strands have made a big comeback, and the thinner, the better.
Beaded Braids
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Beaded braids, seen here on Venus Williams, are very much giving Alicia Keys circa 2009—think the Fallin’ music video (although they’ve been around for way longer). The small accents add an additional accessory to a look.
Spiky Buns
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Letting the ends of your hair jut out of your updo to give it a spiky look was such a big trend in the 2000s. You can tone this hairstyle up or down depending on how much hair you want to show from your bun.
Baby Braids
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Two small baby braids at the front of your head aren’t just easy to create but also highlight your face by acting as a frame. It’s a great style for days when you need something quick and easy that packs a pop of intrigue.
Claw Clips
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Claw clip hairstyles are having a huge moment. The clips themselves are available in so many different colors, designs, and sizes, making it that much more fun to style. From a messy bun to a half-up-half-down look, they offer so much versatility.
Butterfly Clips
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Speaking of hair clips, butterfly clips are back and aren’t reserved for any specific age group. Celebrities like Dua Lipa, Meg the Stallion, and Olivia Rodrigo are all leaning into this trend and looking good doing it. Get creative with your butterfly clips for a fun and playful look.
Pigtails
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Bring on the nostalgia by wearing any iteration of pigtails. Small ponies at the top of your head offer a cutesy vibe, while large ones make for a full nod to Baby Spice.
Flipped Ends
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The next time you heat style your hair, create a dramatic flip at the ends for a glamorous effect. Whether you wear your hair completely out or put it up in a half-up half-down style, you can’t go wrong. Bonus points if you add those face-framing pieces at the front.
Crimped Hair
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Like the start of most beauty trends these days, #mermaidwaves went viral on TikTok. Despite the new name, these zig-zag waves were originally known as crimped hair in the 2000s. The waves this time around may be a little wider than in the past, as seen here on Dua Lipa, but there’s no denying it takes inspiration from the original style.
Zig-Zag Part
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For those who want to commit to the throwback vibes, zig-zag parts are becoming increasingly popular on TikTok and amongst celebrities. The lively accent brings pizazz to any hairstyle.
Super High Ponytail
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Ah, the super high ponytail, now this is a job for Keke Palmer. The Nope star loves to bring the drama to the red carpet by pulling her luscious long locks to the very tippy-top of her head. And, she’s not the only one—the simple yet memorable ‘do is loved by stars like Ariana Grande, Jennifer Lopez, and Zendaya, among many others.
Space Buns
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Space buns are an out-of-this-world hairstyle that doesn’t take much effort and is highly customizable. Just when you thought space buns couldn’t get more fun, here, Millie Bobby Brown opted for an asymmetrical look.
Scrunchies
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If you’re going to use rubber bands, might as well make them an exciting accessory. Opting for a scrunchie instead of an incognito hair tie is a simple way to make your hair stand out.
