25 Gen Z-Approved Hairstyles for a Trendy Look

Gen Z is all about bold, creative, and effortlessly cool hairstyles that reflect individuality and style. From TikTok-inspired trends to nostalgic throwbacks, these hairstyles dominate social media and turn heads. 

Whether you prefer playful braids, chic updos, or vibrant colors, here are 25 Gen Z-approved hairstyles to elevate your look.

1. Curtain Bangs

Curtain bangs are a staple Gen Z look. These face-framing layers part down the middle, softening your features while adding a touch of vintage glam. Whether styled straight, wavy, or messy, they give any hairstyle an effortlessly trendy vibe.

2. Bubble Braids

Playful and eye-catching, bubble braids are perfect for adding flair to a simple ponytail. To achieve the look, secure hair ties along the length of your ponytail and gently tug each section to create the “bubble” effect.

3. The Wolf Cut

A cross between a shag and a mullet, the wolf cut has taken over TikTok. With choppy layers and plenty of volume, this edgy cut offers a rebellious yet fashionable look that’s easy to style.

4. Space Buns

Space buns are fun, versatile, and perfect for casual days or festivals. Simply divide your hair into two sections, twist each into a bun, and secure them on the top of your head. Add glitter or colorful clips for extra flair.

5. Chunky Highlights

Bold, face-framing highlights are making a comeback. Popularized in the early 2000s, these chunky streaks in contrasting colors, like platinum blonde on dark hair, create a striking, high-fashion look.

6. Sleek Middle-Part Ponytail

A sleek, middle-part ponytail is the ultimate “clean girl” aesthetic. Smooth your hair back into a low or high ponytail using gel or styling cream for a polished, minimalist look.

7. Claw Clip Updo

The claw clip trend is back, and it’s here to stay. This easy updo involves twisting your hair and securing it with a claw clip for an effortlessly chic appearance. It’s perfect for lazy hair days.

8. Braided Tendrils

Add a boho touch to any hairstyle by braiding a few face-framing tendrils. This subtle detail gives off a carefree, stylish vibe and works well with ponytails, buns, or loose hair.

9. Pastel Hair

Soft pastel hues, like lavender, mint green, and baby pink, are a favorite among Gen Z. Whether you go for all-over color or subtle streaks, pastel hair adds a playful, dreamy touch to your look.

10. The Octopus Cut

Similar to the wolf cut but with more defined layers, the octopus cut creates volume on top while the ends fall in tentacle-like strands. It’s an edgy yet wearable style that suits various hair textures.

11. Y2K Butterfly Clips

Nothing says Gen Z like a Y2K throwback. Butterfly clips, once a ’90s staple, are now used to pin back small sections of hair, adding a fun and nostalgic touch to any style.

12. Braided Pigtails

Braided pigtails are youthful, playful, and perfect for casual days. Whether tightly woven or left loose and messy, they add a trendy edge to your look.

13. Shaggy Layers

The modern shag is all about choppy layers, volume, and texture. This hairstyle works for all hair lengths and gives off an effortlessly cool, lived-in vibe.

14. Peekaboo Highlights

For a bold yet subtle pop of color, try peekaboo highlights. These hidden streaks of vibrant color, placed under the top layers of hair, show off only when you move or style your hair.

15. High Messy Bun

The high messy bun is a Gen Z classic. It’s quick, stylish, and works for any occasion. Pull a few strands loose around your face for a relaxed, effortless vibe.

16. E-Girl Streaks

E-girl streaks involve dyeing two front sections of hair in a contrasting color, like blonde streaks on dark hair. This bold, face-framing trend is perfect for those who love standing out.

17. French Braid Crown

For an elegant yet playful look, try a French braid crown. This hairstyle involves braiding two sections along the sides of your head and securing them at the back, creating a “crown” effect.

18. The Wet Look

Sleek, glossy hair that looks fresh out of the shower is a fashion-forward trend loved by Gen Z. Use gel or styling cream to achieve the perfect wet look without the actual moisture.

19. Flip-Out Ends

Channel retro vibes with flip-out ends. Using a flat iron or round brush, curl the ends of your hair outward for a vintage-inspired, polished finish.

20. Rope Braids

Rope braids are a stylish twist on traditional braids. Simply divide your hair into two sections, twist each section, and wrap them around each other. This look works beautifully for ponytails or pigtails.

21. Colored Money Pieces

Money pieces—bold, face-framing highlights—are a Gen Z favorite. Add a pop of color like pink, blue, or platinum blonde to brighten your look instantly.

22. Voluminous Blowout

A voluminous blowout gives you that “fresh from the salon” feel. Using a round brush and blow dryer, create soft, bouncy waves for an effortlessly glamorous look.

23. Wispy Curtain Layers

Soft, wispy layers paired with curtain bangs create a romantic, airy feel. This hairstyle works beautifully on medium to long hair and adds movement and volume.

24. Braided Bun

Combine elegance with a touch of edge by styling your hair into a braided bun. This hairstyle is perfect for formal events or when you want to elevate your everyday look.

25. Half-Up Space Buns

For a fun and playful vibe, try half-up space buns. Simply section off the top half of your hair, twist each side into a bun, and leave the rest flowing freely.

Style Your Hair, Your Way

Gen Z hairstyles are all about self-expression, creativity, and embracing what makes you unique. Whether you opt for bold colors, retro accessories, or effortlessly cool cuts, there’s no limit to how you can style your hair. 

Try out these trendy looks and find the one that best reflects your personality!