Hold on to your butterfly clips, because Y2K fashion is back with a vengeance, and Miley Cyrus is leading the charge! She just rocked a hairstyle that's giving us major flashbacks, proving that some trends really do come full circle. But is this just a fleeting moment of nostalgia, or is this early-aughts revival here to stay?
Cyrus recently appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and while her dazzling maroon Tom Ford dress was undoubtedly stunning and perfect for the holiday season, it was her hair that truly stole the show. She sported a high, deliberately messy bun, styled in that unmistakable "spiky" fashion that defined the early 2000s. Think Christina Aguilera meets Lizzie McGuire, and you're on the right track. The majority of her hair was pulled back tightly against her head, creating a sleek, almost severe look. But here's where it gets interesting: a thick section of hair was strategically left out at the front, forming a dramatic side-bang effect thanks to her deep side part. This contrast – the sleekness against the textured bun – is what really screamed "Y2K!"
While on the show, Miley discussed her new song, "Dream as One," which will be featured in the upcoming Avatar: Fire and Ash film. She also shared some personal good news: she confirmed her engagement to drummer Maxx Morando! The couple has been dating for four years, so congratulations are definitely in order.
But the Y2K love didn't stop at the Kimmel appearance. Earlier that day, Miley was spotted heading to the studio, rocking the same nostalgic hairstyle paired with other early-aughts-inspired pieces. She wore a chunky, chocolate-brown fur bomber jacket (faux fur, of course!), paired with slate gray, flared leather pants. To complete the look, she added a low-slung gold chain belt with a large heart-shaped charm and a matching necklace. Talk about commitment to the theme!
And this is the part most people miss: Miley isn't the only celebrity bringing back this trend. Other A-listers are subtly incorporating elements of the Y2K updo into their own styles. Kendall Jenner, for example, recently wore a softer version of the asymmetrical hairstyle at the L'Oréal Paris Women of Worth 20th Anniversary event in Los Angeles. While her take was less overtly 2000s – featuring a low, loosely pinned bun, a middle part, and a softer texture in the chin-length layer left out on one side – the core idea was definitely there.
Hailey Bieber has also been embracing updos lately, often pulling out long front pieces from her signature slicked-back styles to frame her face. This is pretty common with curtain bangs, which are usually too short to pull back anyway. But Hailey and others are intentionally leaving longer layers loose to create a similar effect.
Now, here's the best part: This look, whether you're going for full-on Y2K revival or a more modern interpretation, is surprisingly easy to recreate. The key is to maintain your part, especially in the front, as you pull your hair back. Carefully section off the pieces you want to leave out, and secure them temporarily with clips or scrunchies.
Then, style the rest of your hair into an updo as usual. Using a mousse or wax stick can help you achieve a perfectly sleek, tight base, which provides a stunning contrast to your softer, face-framing pieces and textured bun. Finally, style your "bangs." For the Miley Cyrus look, use a straightener to create a uniform 'C-curve.' For a softer version, try using a curling iron and a texture spray to add gentle waves.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that this hairstyle is dated and unflattering. Others might say it's a fun and playful way to express your individuality. What do you think? Are you ready to embrace the return of the Y2K updo, or is this one trend that should stay in the past? Let us know in the comments below!
