Three Y2K Hairstyles That Are Back and Better Than Ever–and How to Do Them

Published by
Erin Ryser
Shop the Look: Edge of Style Black Ribbed Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Top, Fluttering Love Gold Butterfly Hoop Earrings

You know what they say: What goes around always comes back around. And when it comes to beauty trends, that’s certainly the case. Currently, Y2K hairstyles–and fashion–are experiencing a revival in a big way–and the early aughts look is perfect for festival season.

Shop the Look: Edge of Style Black Ribbed Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Top, Desert Daydream Gold Earrings

Spotted on everyone from supermodels to influencers, Millenium-inspired looks are taking over (just a browse through TikTok and you’ll see what I mean). Hairstyles like baby braids, space buns, bubble braids, and zig-zag parts are nostalgic, easy, and well, fun–and way less cringey than you remember.

Shop the Look: Edge of Style Black Ribbed Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Top, Daisy 14KT Gold Flower Charm Necklace

Y2K hairstyles don’t take themselves too seriously, either–they’re playful. Hence, why you’ll probably want to try on one or more for your next festival appearance! Ahead, check out three modern 2000s-inspired  festival hair ideas to add to your lineup this season.

Y2K Hair Ideas:

Baby Rope Braids

Shop the Look: Edge of Style Black Ribbed Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Top, Daisy 14KT Gold Flower Charm Necklace

Instructions:

Step 1: Straighten the hair and part it down the middle in a zig-zag.

Step 2: Create small rope braids with 1cm square sections at the part.

Step 3: To create a rope braid, split the section in half and twist the two halves around each other, then secure with an elastic.

Space Buns

Shop the Look: Edge of Style Black Ribbed Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Top, Fluttering Love Gold Butterfly Hoop Earrings

Instructions:

Step 1: Straighten the hair and part it down the middle in a zig-zag.

Step 2: Section away a small section on each side of the part to frame the face.

Step 3: Pull the rest into two pigtails.

Step 4: On the last pull-through with each pigtail, only pull halfway through. Then, wrap the remaining hair around the hair tie and secure it with pins.

High Bubble Braid

Shop the Look: Edge of Style Black Ribbed Long Sleeve Asymmetrical Top, Desert Daydream Gold Earrings

Instructions:

Step 1: Straighten the hair and part it down the middle.

Step 2: Pull the hair into a high ponytail, slicking the hair down with product.

Step 3: Add elastics down the length of the ponytail, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 4: Pull on the sections for fullness.

Did you try any of these festival hair ideas? Show us your Y2k hairstyles on Instagram @lulus–and head to our Festival Edit to shop outfit options!

Erin Ryser is an Atlanta-based makeup artist and hairstylist who makes beauty magic happen whether she’s glamming up brides on the big day or coming up with pretty everyday ‘dos.

Recent Posts

  • Fashion

20 Freshly-Picked Fall Floral Dresses You Can Wear Right Now

Can’t get enough of floral prints? Good news: You don’t have to leave them behind…

1 week ago
  • Fashion

The Homecoming 2026 Style Edit: Trends, Colors & Finding the Perfect Dress

Hoco season is here, and that means the search for the perfect dress is on.…

2 weeks ago
  • Lifestyle

Behind the Looks: Celebrating 30 Years of Lulus Through Employee Stories

As we celebrate three decades of Lulus, one thing is clear: our brand would be nothing without…

3 weeks ago
  • Fashion

14 Cute Date Outfits That are Perfect for Fall

Fall is officially back, and somehow, it feels fresh every single time. Between the crisp…

3 weeks ago
  • Fashion

9 Late-Summer Outfit Ideas That Will Take You Straight Into Fall

Late summer dressing calls for pieces that still work in the heat but hint at…

3 weeks ago
  • Lifestyle

30 Years of Real Women, Real Moments: Customers Share Their Lulus Stories

For 30 years, Lulus has been part of life's most meaningful moments, celebrating alongside our customers through first…

4 weeks ago