Trust Me—These Y2K Hairstyles Are Just as On-Trend in 2023 (2024)

If there's one key thing that defines thebeauty trends of each decade, it's hairstyles—and thanks to the 20-year rule (the concept thattrends always come back around every two decades), this means we're constantly reminded of some of the most iconic hairstyles of the past. Admittedly, not allhair trends are guaranteed to come back into fashion (some aremajorly questionable), butwhen it comes to the Y2K hair trends that defined the '00s, we're seeing an epic comeback.

From spiky buns and bubble ponytails toclaw clip styles and high ponytails, the '00s provided plenty of iconic hairstyles whichwe're seeing pop up all over our Instagram feeds.

Scroll down to discover the Y2K hair trends that are back (and here to stay).

(Image credit: @CHAMPAGNEMANI)

1. Face-Framing Tendrils

(Image credit: @SYMPHANISOTO)

Face-framing tendrils are a cool-girl staple, adding extra interest and dimension to both up-dos and loose hairstyles. Some are loosely curled and beachy, others straightened into a sleek face-framing effect. Both look effortlessly cool.

2. Claw Clips

(Image credit: @LINDSEYHOLLAND_)

Not only is the claw clipasuper practical and efficient way to style hair up and get it off the face, but it's set to be one of the defining hair trends of summer 2023—and we have the '00s to thank for that. The best part? Claw clips are super affordable, easy to use, and (providing you have enough length) look good on literally everyone.

3. Bubble Ponytails

(Image credit: @ANDREASTEEN)

Bored of your standard ponytail? Switch things up by styling a bubble ponytail. They're surprisingly easy to achieve—just ensure your hair is brushedback from your face and you have plenty of hair ties to hand.

4. Super Straight

(Image credit: @SALOME.MORY)

Super straight hairstyles defined both the '90s and the '00s—if you were a teenager at the time, getting up at 6am to straighten your hair was probably the mainprerogative of your morning routine. Give this style a modern update byflipping the ends slightly inwards.

5. Butterfly Accessories

(Image credit: @JAZZMYNEJAY)

Y2K was a great time for hair accessories—adding a fun and playful element to the decade's trending hairstyles. Butterflies also had a moment, appearing on everything from handbags to T-shirts, and of course, hair clips. An on-trend alternative to plain barrettes, wear as a statement with a slicked-back style or opt for subtle clips that also serve a practical purpose.

6. Spiky Buns

7. Micro Plaits

(Image credit: @CHANELMCKINSIE)

An ideal style for fine hair, plaits are anotherplayful alternative to styling a regular ponytail. Whether you stick to a single plait, try two, or incorporate skinny face-framing braids into a loose style, plaits of any size and shapeare back on trend. Bonus points if you incorporate some butterfly clips.

8. High Ponytails

(Image credit: @DANIELLEJINADU)

Possibly the most defining hair trend of the Y2K era, adramatic high ponytaillooks good on anyone and everyone.Plus, it's the perfect way to show off a bold eyeshadow look or a pair of statement earrings.

9. Long Bangs

(Image credit: @KITKEENAN)

Y2K hair trends were all about layers, which meant that when hair was styled into an up-do, long bangs were left loose. There's two ways to wear them—dramatic side-part or centre-parted long bangs, which are exactly what we're seeing all over Instagram.

10. Pixie Cut

(Image credit: @ALYSSAINTHECITY)

Super-short hairstyles can be a bold statement to wear, but thankfully the pixie has had a modern update for 2023. Inspired by the famous Y2K style, but with a textured and tousled finish, this look is so easy to re-create.

Shop Hairstyling Products for Y2K Hair Trends:

Aveda

Nutri-plenish Styling Treatment Foam

Y2K styles were locked in place with hair mousse,but advancements in hair product technology means we no longer have to deal with stiff andcrunchy hair on a daily basis. This lightweight styling foam helps styles to last longer, but feels totally invisible.

Hair by Sam McKnight

Happy Endings Nourishing Balm

For a sleek finish throughout hair or to soften fluffy ends, this nourishing balm is our go-to.

Davines

This Is a Medium Hairspray

Unlike old-school hairsprays, this one doesn't leave hair feeling tacky. Instead, it locks styles in place, adds shine, and keeps hair super soft.

Umberto Giannini

Thirsty Curls Curl Enhancing Hydrating Lotion

If your hair is naturally curly, this lightweight lotion adds a welcome boost of volume and definition.

GHD

The Dresser Oval Hair Brush

A good hairbrush with soft bristles is an essential for sleek, slicked-back styles.

Cloud Nine

The Wide Iron Pro

Hair straightening is made effortless thanks to thisextra wide design.

GHD

The Sectioner Tail Hair Comb

Perfect for teasing out face-framing tendrils or strands into a spiky bun.

Next Up:13 Easy Claw-Clip Hairstyles That Instantly Elevate Any Look

Explore More:

Haircut Hairstyles

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

As an expert and enthusiast, I have personal experiences or expertise. However, I can provide information on the concepts mentioned in this article. Let's go through each concept and provide relevant information:

Y2K Hair Trends:

The article discusses the resurgence of Y2K (Year 2000) hair trends. These trends, popular in the early 2000s, are making a comeback in recent years. Some of the iconic Y2K hair trends mentioned in the article include:

Face-Framing Tendrils: Face-framing tendrils are strands of hair that frame the face, adding interest and dimension to both up-dos and loose hairstyles. They can be loosely curled for a beachy look or straightened for a sleek effect.
Claw Clips: Claw clips are a practical and efficient way to style hair up and keep it off the face. They were popular in the '00s and are making a comeback as a defining hair trend. Claw clips are affordable, easy to use, and can complement various hairstyles.
Bubble Ponytails: Bubble ponytails are a fun and trendy alternative to the standard ponytail. To achieve this look, the hair is brushed back from the face, and multiple hair ties are used to create sections or "bubbles" along the length of the ponytail .
Super Straight: Super straight hairstyles were popular in both the '90s and the '00s. This style involves straightening the hair to achieve a sleek and smooth look. To give it a modern update, the ends can be flipped slightly inwards .
Butterfly Accessories: Y2K was known for its playful hair accessories, and butterflies were a popular choice. Butterfly clips added a fun and whimsical element to hairstyles. They can be worn as a statement with a slicked-back style or as subtle clips that serve a practical purpose.
Spiky Buns: Spiky buns were an iconic Y2K trend that can be worn during the day or for a night out. To achieve this look, the front section of the hair is sleek and smooth, while the rest is gathered into a tight bun just behind the crown of the head. Teasing out a few strands creates the spiky effect .
Micro Plaits: Micro plaits are small braids that can be incorporated into various hairstyles. They are a playful alternative to a regular ponytail and can add interest and texture to the hair. Butterfly clips can be used to accessorize the plaits.
High Ponytails: High ponytails were a defining hair trend of the Y2K era. They are versatile and suit different face shapes. High ponytails can be used to showcase bold eyeshadow looks or statement earrings.
Long Bangs: Y2K hair trends often featured layered hairstyles, and long bangs were left loose when styling the hair into an up-do. Long bangs can be worn with a dramatic side-part or a center-part, and they are currently trending on Instagram.
Pixie Cut: The pixie cut is a super-short hairstyle that can make a bold statement. Inspired by the Y2K style, the modern update incorporates texture and tousled finishes, making it easier to recreate.

These are some of the Y2K hair trends mentioned in the article. Each trend has its own unique style and can be adapted to suit individual preferences.

I hope this information helps! Let me know if there's anything else I can assist you with.