The Y2K aesthetic is back and better than ever, and we’re celebrating with a blast from the past – 15 iconic braid styles that’ll transport you back to the dawn of the millennium.
From neon-lit masterpieces to retro-inspired updos, these Y2K-inspired braids are the perfect way to add a touch of nostalgia to your modern style.
15 Iconic Y2K Braids to Try Today (No. 14 Is My Favorite)
1. Neon Dreams: A Vibrant, Colorful Fishtail Braid
Get ready to make a statement with this vibrant and colorful fishtail braid, aptly named Neon Dreams. This braid is perfect for anyone who wants to add a pop of color to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into two sections and then begin a regular fishtail braid. As you braid, incorporate small sections of brightly colored hair extensions or temporary hair chalk to give your braid a neon effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
2. Millennium Magic: A Whimsical, Double-Braided Updo
Take a trip back to the millennium with this whimsical, double-braided updo. This style is perfect for a special occasion or a night out on the town.
To create this look, start by dividing your hair into two sections and then braid each section into a regular braid. Next, wrap each braid around the crown of your head, securing with bobby pins as you go.
Finish the look by tucking any stray hairs under the braids and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
3. Flip Phone Frenzy: A Trendy, Inside-Out French Braid
Get ready to flip out with this trendy, inside-out French braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some edge to their look.
To achieve this style, start by flipping your hair upside down and then begin a regular French braid. As you braid, gently pull the strands of hair to the outside of the braid, creating an inside-out effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
4. Giga Glam: A Glamorous, Beaded Micro-Braid Style
Add some serious glamour to your look with this beaded micro-braid style. This style is perfect for a special occasion or a night out on the town.
To create this look, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a micro-braid. As you braid, incorporate small beads or sequins into the braid to add some extra glamour.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
5. Retro Revival: A Classic, Chunky Braid with
Take a trip back in time with this classic, chunky braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some retro flair to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into three sections and then braid each section into a regular braid. As you braid, gently pull the strands of hair to create a chunky, textured effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
6. Cyber Siren: A Futuristic, Neon-Lit Braid
Get ready to light up the night with this futuristic, neon-lit braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious edge to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a micro-braid. As you braid, incorporate small sections of neon-colored hair extensions or temporary hair chalk to give your braid a neon effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
7. Dial-Up Delight: A Playful, Twisted Braid
Take a trip back to the good old days with this playful, twisted braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some whimsy to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into two sections and then twist each section away from your face. Next, wrap each twist around the other, securing with bobby pins as you go.
Finish the look by tucking any stray hairs under the twists and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
8. Y2K Yarn: A Colorful, Woven Braid
Get ready to weave your way into the spotlight with this colorful, woven braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious color to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a regular braid. As you braid, incorporate small sections of brightly colored yarn or thread to give your braid a woven effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
9. Glow Stick Goddess: A Radiant, Glow-in-the-Dark Braid
Light up the night with this radiant, glow-in-the-dark braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious glow to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a micro-braid.
As you braid, incorporate small sections of glow-in-the-dark hair extensions or temporary hair chalk to give your braid a radiant effect. Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
10. Cassette Chic: A Retro-Inspired, Tapestry-Like Braid
Take a trip back to the good old days with this retro-inspired, tapestry-like braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious nostalgia to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a regular braid.
As you braid, incorporate small sections of brightly colored yarn or thread to give your braid a tapestry-like effect. Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
11. Pixel Perfect: A Geometric, Box-Braided Style
Get ready to level up your look with this geometric, box-braided style. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious edge to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a box braid.
As you braid, gently pull the strands of hair to create a geometric, pixel-like effect. Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
12. VHS Vibes: A Nostalgic, Crimped Braid
Take a trip back to the good old days with this nostalgic, crimped braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious retro flair to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a regular braid. As you braid, gently crimp the strands of hair to create a textured, crimped effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
13. Napster Nostalgia: A Laid-Back, Effortless Braid
Get ready to chill out with this laid-back, effortless braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious relaxation to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a regular braid. As you braid, gently pull the strands of hair to create a laid-back, effortless effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
14. Screen Siren: A Sleek, High-Tech Braid
Get ready to light up the screen with this sleek, high-tech braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious glamour to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a micro-braid.
As you braid, incorporate small sections of metallic hair extensions or temporary hair chalk to give your braid a high-tech effect. Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
15. Time Capsule Tresses: A Bohemian, Woven Braid
Take a trip back in time with this bohemian, woven braid. This style is perfect for anyone who wants to add some serious boho flair to their look.
To achieve this style, start by dividing your hair into small sections and then braid each section into a regular braid. As you braid, incorporate small sections of brightly colored yarn or thread to give your braid a woven effect.
Finish the look by securing the end with a small elastic band and spritzing with hairspray to keep everything in place.
Conclusion
And there you have it – 15 nostalgic braids that will transport you back to the good old days of the 90s and early 2000s. From neon-colored fishtail braids to retro-inspired tapestry-like braids, these styles are sure to bring back memories of flip phones, cassette tapes, and dial-up internet.
Whether you’re looking to add some whimsy to your everyday look or want to make a statement at a themed party, these braids are sure to impress. So go ahead, get creative, and braid your way back to the past!
FAQs
Q: What kind of hair type is best for these braids?
A: These braids can be adapted to suit most hair types, including straight, curly, and wavy hair. However, some braids may require more manipulation or styling products to achieve the desired look.
Q: How long does it take to do these braids?
A: The time it takes to do these braids can vary depending on the complexity of the style and the length of your hair. On average, it can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour to complete a braid.
Q: Can I use hair extensions or temporary hair chalk to achieve the neon or bright colors?
A: Yes, absolutely! Hair extensions or temporary hair chalk can be a great way to add a pop of color to your braids without committing to permanent dye.
Q: Are these braids suitable for all ages?
A: Yes, these braids can be adapted to suit all ages, from kids to adults. However, some styles may require more patience and dexterity, so it’s best to start with simpler braids and work your way up to more complex styles.
Q: Can I wear these braids to a formal event?
A: While these braids are inspired by nostalgic styles, they can still be dressed up or down to suit a formal event. Just add some elegant accessories and a stylish outfit to complete the look!
Q: How do I keep my braids looking fresh and neat throughout the day?
A: To keep your braids looking fresh and neat, make sure to use a light hold hairspray to set the style in place. You can also use a hair serum or oil to add shine and moisture to your hair. Finally, gently touch up any stray hairs or flyaways throughout the day to keep your braids looking polished.
