5 Hot Hair Style Trends That Rocked 2006 – And Are Making a Comeback!
If 2005 was all about experimenting with retro styles, 2006 took things a notch higher. It became the year of bold reinvention and unforgettable comebacks. Hair trends took inspiration from the past—particularly the swinging '60s and expressive '70s—but with imaginative updates that added a fresh and edgy flair.
The fashion and beauty world moves in cycles, and often, what’s old becomes new again. Interestingly, many of the hairstyle trends that emerged in 2006 are now seeing a resurgence. From Hollywood glam to edgy Mohawks, here's a closer look at the five hot hairstyle trends of 2006 that captured our attention—and how they continue to inspire us today.
1. The Hollywood Makeover – Vintage Glamour Returns
Classic vintage Hollywood styles made a major comeback in 2006. Think smooth, shiny waves, deep side partings, and elegant glamour that channels the golden era of cinema. These styles remind us of starlets like Veronica Lake and Lauren Bacall.
To achieve this look, skip the towel drying—pat your hair dry gently to maintain sleekness. Then go for finger-waving or pin-curling to sculpt that soft, wavy silhouette. Accentuate the style with rhinestone pins, feathered headbands, or even ostrich feathers (a major accessory trend in 2006). Whether you’re attending a formal event or just want a retro-inspired day look, this hairstyle oozes timeless elegance.
2. The Trendy 80s – Crimps, Layers & Wind-Blown Chic
The “decade of decadence” found its voice again in 2006. The 1980s were all about rebellious flair, and this trend brought in bold textures, crimped locks, and wind-blown volume.
The focus shifted away from the polished straight look of earlier years to more fun, movement-heavy styles. Short layers, tousled textures, and chunky highlights defined this trend. Crimped hair, previously a favorite of 80s pop stars, returned with flair. Paired with brightly colored clothes and statement jewelry, this hairstyle embraced chaos in the chicest way.
3. The Beatles Reborn – Modern Mod Styles
With a nod to the mod fashion of the 50s and 60s, this trend involved bowl cuts and blunt bangs—but updated with sharper edges and textured crowns. This reinterpretation of The Beatles-inspired hairstyles came with more structure and personality.
The new mod cut featured ultra-short styles, angular framing, and a heavy emphasis on fringe. To personalize this look, many added vibrant color streaks or highlights to emphasize depth and bring out the cut's edginess. It's playful, yet sharp—perfect for those who want a retro vibe with modern confidence.
4. Asymmetric Cuts – Dare to Be Different
If you were feeling bold in 2006, asymmetric hairstyles were your best bet. These cuts featured intentionally uneven angles—where one side of the hair was longer or cut at a dramatically different slope from the other. It was the ultimate expression of individuality and creativity.
Some versions involved subtle slants, while others made a statement with shaved sections or fun patterns etched into the scalp. This look worked particularly well for people with short hair who wanted something edgy yet manageable. It was a favorite among young adults who weren’t afraid to break the mold.
5. The Mohawk – Punk Meets Versatility
The Mohawk, once a symbol of punk rebellion, found new life in 2006. It was edgy, versatile, and increasingly worn by both men and women. The look involved a strip of hair standing tall at the center of the scalp while the sides were closely shaved or slicked down.
Short-haired individuals could create a temporary Mohawk by simply gelling the middle section of their hair. For the authentic version, stylists trimmed the sides and left a dramatic peak in the middle. This fierce look wasn’t just about style—it was a declaration of personality. It’s harder to maintain, but for those who love to stand out, it’s well worth it.
Conclusion:
Hairstyles often reflect the spirit of the times, and 2006 was all about celebrating past inspirations with fearless innovation. Whether you’re into vintage glam, playful textures, or bold asymmetry, these timeless styles offer plenty of ideas to refresh your look. Some of these trends are even making a comeback—proof that good style never really goes out of fashion.