Hairstylist Tells Us 5 Y2K Hairstyles And Cuts That Still Work In 2024

The Y2K aesthetic has been having a moment for the last few years and everything from butterfly tops to celeb-approved frosted eyeshadows are back from the dead. Trendsetters are also embracing hairstyles of the early aughts and while we're all for bringing back retro looks, some 'dos are too dated to recreate. Chunky highlights were big during the boy band era but these days, many prefer the more blended look of balayage and babylights. Zig-zag parts have made a comeback, with Saweetie showing off her hair on Instagram in 2023. However, if you want to go for a more timeless style that was big in the early 2000s but won't look outdated, there are other options to choose from.

Hair and makeup artist Luna Viola exclusively shared with Glam five Y2K hairdos that will bring back nostalgia without making you look like you went back in time. The expert told us, "They remain very easy low-maintenance hairstyles, making it possible for everyone to achieve it at home with the right products and tools." With baby braids and an Ariana Grande-inspired high pony on the roster, Viola firmly believes that these hairstyles remain iconic and classic even after over 20 years.

Crimped hair became all the rage in the 1980s and made a resurgence in the 2000s. Now that Y2K styles are back again, so are pleated tresses but hair and makeup artist Luna Viola exclusively told Glam, "The latest take on the 2000's crimped hair is back in a similar looser form." According to her, the more updated version of this style is mermaid waves which you can achieve using a triple barrel waver which is the key to achieving the ultimate beachy look.

Viola recommends using a sea salt spray for added texture prior to creating your waves. Mermaid waves are particularly ideal for those who have fine hair or simply want more bulk to their strands. "This hairstyle adds volume and amplifies the hair resembling the shape of the ocean waves. The result is undone Afrodite feminine hair," she described to us. Crimped hair but better? We're all for this sultry, summertime look.

There's nothing that makes you feel fiercer than a power ponytail and when it comes to recreating this Y2K look, the higher the better. As Luna Viola exclusively pointed out to Glam, celebrities like Ariana Grande have claimed this hairstyle as their signature look, and we've seen everyone from Beyoncé to Anne Hathaway rock a high ponytail. "This hairstyle has been going strong on major catwalks since the late '90s. This sleek hairdo stands the test of time thanks to its versatility," Viola stated.

To achieve the perfect power ponytail, brush your hair first so that it's nice and smooth. Gather your strands at the crown of your head, making sure to smooth out any bumps or flyaways. You'll need a good hairspray or gel to keep the base sleek. For the ultimate Y2K look, Viola shared, "The dramatic tight high pony can be sported with a deep side part and flipped ends for a retro touch, or a more grunge era middle part for a more urban look." To flare out your ends, simply use a 1¼ inch curling iron and gently curl the bottom of your hair outwards, spraying with hairspray to secure the style.

Buns are the ultimate go-to hairstyle for when you have second-day hair or just need a run-and-go 'do. However, if you want to amp up your ballerina bun, look no further than the spiky styles of the Y2K era. "Spiky buns are making a comeback on fashion runways with a strong pointy look twist. While the messy boho bun is soft and romantic, the spiky bun is edgy and structured," hair and makeup artist Luna Viola exclusively told Glam. To get this look, she instructed, "Apply hair spray before you twist the hair in a bun, leaving the ends out, then go over with a straightener to achieve the porcupine spike detail."

There are many variations of this look, so have fun playing around with different styles. You can slick all of your hair back for a sleek look or have some pieces hanging loose in the front. Some prefer the ends to drape down, while others love a super spiked look with pointy ends sticking out. We think you'll look fly no matter which Y2K spiky bun style you choose.

During the early 2000s, no updo was complete without a few strands framing the sides of your face and this look is a classic way of softening a chignon. Ever since the Y2K aesthetic reared its head again, celebrities are rocking soft tendrils like it's 1999. In 2021, trendsetter Hailey Bieber was seen out and about with two short side pieces grazing her chin while rocking a spiked 'do, proving you can mix and match Y2K hairstyles.

Face framing tendrils work best for those with layers on the shorter side, Luna Viola exclusively noted. "Make it slightly wavy for an updated spin on the trend," she stated. If your hair is on the long side, you can create the illusion of shorter pieces by curling them with a small or medium-barreled curling iron. Just be sure to start close to the roots of your hair so that you achieve a uniform look.

From Brandy to Christina Aguilera, celebrities everywhere were seen sporting mini braids during the new millennium. Whether it was a whole head of plaits like the "I Wanna Be Down" singer or random braids integrated into loose waves as Aguilera did, the knotted look was all the rage back then and it is now as well. If you want to harken back to the days of moon boots and "Total Request Live," our makeup and hair expert Luna Viola exclusively told us, "Nothing says early 2000s like braids. Feminine and decorative, braids are the easiest trends that add a touch of excitement to a simple everyday look." She added, "Baby braids have that boho feel mixed with a '90s look, drawing from both the grunge and the street style influences that were popular at those times."

Baby braids are a great way to add a playful touch to your hair and you can have as many or as few as you want. Viola suggested, "Add clips or beads for a fun Coachella festival look." Another 2000s hairstyle that mixes two trends is braided tendrils. Tie a pair of small ribbons on the bottom for the ultimate coquettish look and you'll be livin' la vida Y2K.