How to Wear a Zigzag Part As an Ode to the 2000s

Look at any magazine or take a moment to scroll through Instagram and TikTok and you’re bound to come across countless Y2K inspired beauty trends. Trends are cyclical and what was ultra-popular in the 2000s has become popular once again. 

It’s not just crimped hair or baby braids that are capturing our attention again — the zigzag part is our current Y2K hairstyle crush. And the best part? It’s easy to create and can be worn with tons of different hairstyles. So if you’re ready to take a trip back to the early aughts, keep reading because we’re sharing what you need to know about sporting a zigzag part. 

What Is a Zigzag Part?

In case you’re unfamiliar with the popular hair parting technique, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Instead of the hair part being one straight line, it twists and turns in the shape of a zigzag. 

How Do You Make a Zigzag Part?

Creating this type of part is really simple. You can do this with wet or dry hair — although doing it wet can give you more control — and you’ll just need a rattail comb so that the pointy end can help you part with precision. 

You’ll want to use the point of the comb like a pen to draw the zigzags along your part starting at the front and working your way towards the back of your head. Let the sections of hair fall to the sides along with the zigzag, and use the pointed part of the comb to perfect the part. 

How to Wear a Zigzag Part 

Aside from being easy to create, the zigzag part is also versatile — there are so many different ways to sport it, and we’re sharing some of our favorites below. 

1. With a Sleek Bun or Ponytail

Sleek buns and ponytails are great for achieving polished looks that keep your hair out of your face. But if you’re looking to add a bit of spice to your slicked back style, you can create a zigzag part and pair it with a bun or ponytail. 

To keep the part in place as well as provide hold for your pony, apply some of the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel with an edge brush. 

2. With Straight Backs

Straight backs — or cornrows that run straight from the front of the head to the back — is a great style to pair with a zigzag part. And while this might seem counterintuitive, the braids themselves run straight back, but the parting between them can have a fun zigzag pattern. 

3. With Double French Braids 

You can take the zigzag pattern one step further by pairing a zigzag part with French braids on each side of your head. French braids have a similar look due to their cross over pattern, so creating one on each side of your part makes for a really intricate, yet balanced look. 

4. With Straight Hair 

If you have naturally straight hair or you enjoy straightening your hair for a smooth, sleek look, pairing it with a 2000s inspired part is a fun way to give it a little something special. It gives the hairstyle a subtle, eye catching element while maintaining its understated look. Create a middle part with a zigzag pattern and set the hair in place if necessary with hair spray or hair gel. 

Editor’s tip: If you are going to straighten your hair, be sure to use a heat protectant, like the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Weightless Blow Dry Primer, Heat Protectant. It’s formulated with 450 degree heat protection, and it helps to smooth and nourish the hair, too. 

5. With Space Buns 

For the ultimate playful style, create a zigzag part and pair it with space buns. It makes for a really dimensional look that you can keep loose and lived-in or you can slick the style back to give it a polished finish. 

Next: The Mullet Is Back — Here’s How to Give It a Modern Spin

Written by: Alyssa Kaplan, Photo Credit: IG/@lexxxa7