Yay or Nay? Y2K Hair Trends are Back

The Y2K aesthetic is back — but what is it, really? Even those of us who literally lived through the mid-'90s and early 2000s are confused. The reincarnation of the so-called aesthetic is way cooler than it was before. Juicy Couture tracksuits, which the fashion world once deemed “basic,” have become fascinating on the likes of Millie Bobby Brown and Sabrina Carpenter. Even today’s hair trends look so much more aspirational than the Chun-Li buns of yore. Do you think you can pull these off? 

Space buns have come a long way. Those who wear it tend to have a rock ‘n’ roll-meets-girly fashion sense. Once worn by Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, and the Spice Girls, this 2000s hairstyle is now extremely popular among the trendy Gen Z set. One of the few hair trends that is distinctively Y2K, space buns are quick and easy to create. You may not even need any styling products if your hair is long enough. Not into the Princess Leia look? Try pigtails or a top knot instead. 

Bleached is the most Y2K way you can rock trendy curtain bangs. This hair trend is pretty universal and you can adapt them to your personality and style. In the ‘90s, Geri Halliwell wore them with her bold red hair, giving it a cheeky pop star punch. Meanwhile, Cindy Crawford also sported a more subtle version (not quite as blonde as Dua’s), which blended well with the rest of her hair.

Ask any Filipino who made butterfly clips cool back in the ‘90s and they’ll tell you one name: Jolina Magdangal, the original influencer. These days, you can see this cute hair trend on Megan Thee Stallion, Halsey, Vanessa Hudgens, and Lucy Hale. If you need to whip up a cute hairstyle quickly, grab a bunch of these accessories and use them to clip your hair in place. Complete the look with 2000s fashion, like a butterfly top with capri pants.

This hair trend never really went away, but it’s really on a roll these days. It’s a runway staple for fashion houses such as Gucci, Hermes, Chanel, Valentino, and Chloe. It’s also in the music video of Olivia Rodrigo’s “Deja Vu.” See, the bandana is having a moment and because you can wear it in so many ways, you’re certain to find at least one style that works for you. It's also one of the cutest Y2K hairstyles for short hair!

PSA: These are not Dorothy’s prim-and-proper braids. The modern-day version of the Y2K trend is a lot more playful and creative. As seen here on Doja Cat, braids can be edgy and fashion-forward. With the right accessories, they can even look a little sci-fi. To truly rock this Y2K hair trend, complement it with over-the-top accessories or colorful, graphic eye makeup.

While experimenting with different hair trends, protect your hair with the right products. Use Cream Silk Salon Expert Treatment Keratin Damage Repair to nourish and bring life to limp strands. This conditioner repairs and restores brittle hair to health and is perfect for locks that are constantly subjected to styling products and heated tools.

There are no rules to rocking these Y2K hair trends. In fact, that’s what they’re all about — playful, carefree creativity on your hair. Take your cue from these celebrities and style your hair like it’s 1999.