Every era has its own set of defining beauty trends. The 90s delivered one moody look after another, from pencil-thin brows to matte brown lips and braids, which continue to be popular today. But the 2000s marked a major shift and ushered in a completely new feeling. Light-hearted and carefree was the vibe, and with that came glitter makeup, bright colors and the side bang. Within the span of the decade, the Y2K side bangs became the look for one simple reason: it worked with any hair texture, length and style. Short pixie cuts, long layers, slicked-back ponytails, box braids—the list goes on and on.
While it’s true the side bang never really left, today they’re bigger than ever. Rappers like Cardi B. and Meg Thee Stallion sport a new side bang look almost daily, and who can forget Selena Gomez’s gorgeous hairstyle at the 2024 Emmy Awards? It’s clearly the 2.0 era of the Y2K side bangs, so we decided to round up our favorite ways to wear the trend. See them all below.
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Asymmetrical pixie
Yes, you can absolutely wear a side bang with short hair. Take a cue from this Ariana DeBose look that pairs a cropped cut with a long side bang. The contrast in length has an edgy vibe that’s reminiscent of the 2000s.
IG: @takishahair 2 / 7
Flipped lob
Flipped styles from the early 2000s walked so that the bell-bottom bob could run. This long bob version works perfectly with a swooping side bang and light layers. Pro tip: try using TikTok’s hair-tuck trick to keep the style set in place.
IG: @igkhair 3 / 7
Single side bang
Looking for a cool way to upgrade your ponytail? Why not give this single side bang a try? Sleek and simple, it’s a quick way to give your style a modern twist. Try doing a collarbone grazing bang and pairing it with an extra-long low ponytail.
IG: @takishahair 4 / 7
Sleek bun
If ever there were a hairstyle that begged for a side bang, it’s a slick-back. The sleek style from the 90s is transformed with an equally chic side bang. Even better? It works for any occasion, from nights out to the office and elegant events.
IG: @igkhair 5 / 7
Long waves
Short, piecy side bangs were often paired with long hair in the 2000s. This look is a modern twist and incorporates a long side bang and lush waves. The result is a soft, voluminous style that’s eye-catching and bold.
IG_igkhair 6 / 7
Classic 2000s side bang
The swooping side bang is one of the most beloved ways to wear the style. This look pairs it with a fluffy long layers for a nostalgic feel.
IG_hairvivi_official 7 / 7
Voluminous blowout
The 2000s side-bang is usually about sleek styling. But this voluminous blowout flips the script. It’s full of body and falls in line with the bouncy bobs that have been trending this year.
IG_igkhair 
