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Human Interest

Human Interest

Human Interest

Revisiting Iconic Black Hairstyles from the 2000s

By Kayla Morgan

Black hair is not just hair. It’s a kind of magic. Think about it: it defies gravity and can be molded into all sorts of shapes. It can even be put into styles that stand the test of time. Icons like The Supremes, Cicely Tyson, Angela Davis, Diana Ross, Donna Summer, Aaliyah, Brandy, Halle Berry, and Beyoncé, spanning the 1960s to the early 2000s, showcased looks that remain timeless. Even today, these classic styles can be replicated. Additionally, they can be given a modern twist with on-trend embellishments, maintaining a timeless appeal.

Black hair over the years…

The journey of Black hair over the years is intriguing, with old styles making occasional comebacks. For instance, the Y2K hair era has seen periodic revivals. Bringing back trends like bandanas, micro braids, beaded braids, and designer logos. Black women not only embraced these styles but also played a significant role in popularizing them, establishing themselves as trendsetters.

In honor of Black History Month, let’s pay tribute to the iconic Black hairstyles of the early 2000s. Black History Month is not just a reflection on the past. It’s also an opportunity to honor trailblazers, visionaries, and icons shaping our present. It’s a celebration of Black hair and beauty traditions, acknowledging the lasting impact of how Black culture has influenced beauty around the world.

The ongoing natural hair movement is changing the beauty world and getting people to talk about including everyone. In 2019, the CROWN (Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair) Act, led by the CROWN Coalition, emerged as a pivotal initiative against hair discrimination, gaining adoption in 23 states and garnering international support.

Check out some of the iconic Black hairstyles from the 2000s. It’s a trip down memory lane celebrating the beauty and cultural influence of Black hair that’s made its mark on the world.

  • Short spiky pixie cuts

    In the Y2K era, numerous celebrities, such as Halle Berry, Missy Elliott, and Kelly Rowland, embraced the trend of short spiky pixie cuts. These chic and edgy hairstyles, characterized by their spikey texture, were frequently showcased by these stars at events like the MTV VMAs. The spiky pixie cut features a very short length with an edgy texture, often incorporating shorter sides and back, complemented by longer layers on the top or sides.

  • Bumped ends

    Getting a silk press was the go-to move if you wanted your hair to end with those nice bumped ends. Back in the day, stars like Gabrielle Union loved this look and often rocked it at awards shows. Nowadays, you’ll see celebrities like Rihanna, Normani, and Keke Palmer still pulling off the bumped ends style with flair.

  • Designer logo wigs

    Long before Cardi B and Nicki Minaj made a statement with designer brands in their hair, Lil Kim was the undisputed queen of the trend. In the early 2000s, she rocked attention-grabbing wigs adorned with logos from Versace and Chanel. Would you consider giving this bold and iconic style a try today?

  • Swept bang

    In the early 2000s, Aaliyah was frequently seen sporting her distinctive long side-swept bangs, which had a knack for covering one side of her face. These signature swoopy bangs became a defining style of that era and continue to be recreated today by present-day trendsetters like Normani and Zendaya.

  • Fulani Braids

    Alicia Keys has consistently showcased an impressive braid game, frequently rocking this style during the Y2K era. Beyonce has also done the Fulani braids look during that time. Fulani Braids, a look she often sported, involve braids adorned with beads, featuring patterns inspired by the traditional styles of the Fulani people.

  • Crimped hair

    Crimped hairstyles offer versatility, suited for various hair types such as natural, extensions, or even pulled back into a ponytail. With a crimping iron, this style gives your hair a distinctive zig-zag, wavy pattern. One that is different from body waves or loose curls. In the early 2000s, Beyoncé and many other Black celebrities embraced and rocked this trend.

    Destiny's Child backstage at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas after the 2000 Billboard Music Awards. December 5, 2000 (Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

    Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images

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