Y2K Hairstyles We Love (And How To Wear Them Today)

The early 2000s were a time of bold hair moves—from butterfly clips to chunky highlights and spiky statement ‘dos. Whether you rocked them back then or caught the craze scrolling through TikTok, Y2K hair is officially back.

From playful clips to flipped-out ends, we’re bringing that nostalgia full circle—only now with extra shine, softness and zero crunch. Here’s how we’d style the most iconic Y2K hairstyles today.

1. The sleek high pony

Then: Flat-ironed within an inch of its life.

Now: Still snatched, but softer—think shine over stiffness.

How to style it: Use a flexible hold gel or styling cream to smooth flyaways and boost shine. Gather hair high at the crown and secure with a gentle elastic. For an extra-polished finish, wrap a small piece of hair around the base and tuck in or secure with a bobby pin

Try: Flex Hair Gel for sleek hold without the crunch

2. Zigzag part

Then: The edgiest way to wear a middle part.

Now: A subtle switch-up that makes any style feel cooler.

How to style it: Use the tip of a tail comb to carve out a clean zigzag part, then style as usual—slicked back in a bun, half-up with clips or left loose with natural texture. It’s a quick switch that adds a little edge.

Try: Leave-in Detangling Tonic for smooth, easy sectioning

3. Flipped ends

Then: The ultimate flat-iron flex.

Now: Retro, but with movement.

How to style it: Blow-dry with a round brush, curling just the ends outward. For extra hold and bounce, use a light styling foam before drying. This look loves a center part and glossy finish.

Try: Volumizing Foam for heat protection, body and bounce + Hair Oil for a soft, shiny finish

4. Butterfly clips

Then: The more clips, the better.

Now: A nostalgic (and stylish) way to keep hair out of your face.

How to style it: Create a center part and braid or twist a couple of small front sections. Clip them back with butterfly clips for a look that’s equal parts playful and practical. Works on all hair types—and looks just as cute at brunch as it does at the beach.

Try: Air Dry Styler (fine to medium hair) or Leave-in Conditioner (all hair types) for smooth, frizz-free styling

5. The spiky bun

Then: Messy, edgy and eye-catching.

Now: A fun way to elevate your everyday bun.

How to style it: Pull your hair into a bun, but leave out a few small pieces around the crown or sides. Curl or straighten these strands to create soft, intentional spikes that add playful texture. Use a lightweight styling cream or mousse to keep the base smooth and the ends defined.

Try: Leave-in Detangling Tonic for heat protection and detangling; Cream Pomade to shape and define spikes

6. Crimped strands

Then: The ultimate textured statement—bold, zigzag crimps that turned heads.

Now: Soft, effortless waves that feel undone (in the best way).

How to style it: Skip the heat and try a braid-out: Apply your favorite styler to damp hair, braid a few sections, and let it dry overnight. In the morning, unravel for softly defined waves with natural movement. For added texture and definition, use a medium-hold styler to separate and tousle strands for that effortlessly undone finish. Focus on face-framing pieces or add dimension all over for a relaxed, lived-in look.

Try: Leave-in Conditioner for moisture and frizz control, Cream Pomade to shape and hold waves