Throwback Styles: Early 2000s Hairstyles That Still Hit


Written by: Melissa Mixon

There’s something about the early 2000s that just hits different. From the bedazzled denim to flip phones and LimeWire playlists, it was a whole mood. But the real scene stealers? The hairstyles.

Back then, your hair wasn’t just a style. It was a statement. It told people where you were headed, who your crew was, and whether or not you had access to a flat iron and a whole lot of Pink Lotion.

Let’s take a trip down memory lane with the early 2000s hairstyles that still get love today. These classics aren’t just nostalgic. They are iconic.

1. The Side Part Swoop

Sleek, smooth, and perfectly tucked under. It was giving “I got my hair done, don’t touch it.” If your wrap didn’t have that signature bounce when you shook your head, did it even count?

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Aaliyah with her swoop

2. Micro Braids

These took forever to do, but once they were in, you were unstoppable. Whether you wore them down your back or wrapped them up in a bun, micro braids had that “don’t mess with me” energy.

Brandy rocking micro braids. In her Moesha era.

3. Crimped Hair

Turn your flat iron into a crimper if you were bold or pull out that sizzling zig-zag iron for this textured dream. Crimps were the go-to for parties, school dances, and any moment you just felt like being extra.

Beyonce with her crimper hairstyle.
Ron Galella Collection | Getty Images

4. The High Pony with Bangs

This was for the girls who stayed ready. The pony was sky-high and slicked to perfection. It often had a swooped bang or a flipped end for added drama. You knew you were fly if yours didn’t move in the wind.

Ashanti in her high ponytail
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5. Cornrows with Beads or Designs

This style was more than functional. It was straight-up art. From zig-zag parts to braided hearts, the designs were everything. Add some beads at the ends and you were in throwback heaven.

Alicia Keys with cornrows and beads on the end.
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6. Finger Waves

This one screamed classy and grown. Tight, shiny waves laid like ocean ripples across your head. Whether it was for prom or just a night out, this look turned heads every time.

GettyImages 1311148928 25d25456057c45fda26c7ee3db58940e
Al Pereira/Getty Images

Still Got It: Why These Styles Stay Winning

These styles weren’t just fads. They were blueprints. They reflected pride, personality, and patience. Most of them took hours to do, and every minute was worth it. And now, they are back.

Social media is full of modern twists on these classics, proving that what’s old is new again and still fire.

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Want to bring them back?

Stay locked in with us. Next week we’re dropping a full how-to guide on recreating these looks at home. From the wrap to the waves, we’ve got you covered.


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