The "skunk hair" trend is nothing if not polarizing. If you’re unfamiliar with the hair color trend, the name alone gives it away: it's an eye-catching contrast between light and dark sections of hair, resembling the bold coloring of its animal namesake. The daring look was a popular edgy hairstyle in the early aughts, and now it's seemingly making a comeback thanks to Y2K icons like Christina Aguilera. The singer, 43, recently took to Instagram to debut an understated, modern twist on the "skunk hair" trend on Instagram—and it's giving us serious early aughts déjà vu.
In the photos, the "Lady Marmalade" singer’s hair is slicked back into two high ponytails, with additional sections twisted into structured spiral shapes that, together, create a futuristic updo. True to the skunk trend, her blonde hair is peppered with thin, dark streaks throughout. The result is a revitalized version of that Y2K "skunk hair" trend, but in a more refined, less dramatic way than she rocked back in the day. Unsurprisingly, fans have flocked to the comment section to say that she's "aging backwards" and that she looks like she's in her 20s all over again.
Christina Aguilera Modern "Skunk Hair"
Aguilera famously rocked the duo-tone "skunk hair" trend in 2002, around the release of her iconic album Stripped and its lead single, "Dirrty." This marked a rebellious period for the star. “I came out with ‘Dirrty,’ and that was my f--k-it moment,” she told The Irish Timesin 2019. “That was me stepping up and saying I was a woman [who is] proud of my sexuality. I was proud of my vulnerability. I was proud of the fact that I've fought my way through this industry."
Christina Aguilera's 2002 "Skunk Hair"
"Skunk hair" isn’t the only early 2000s trend making a stylish return—Y2K side bangs are also back in a big way. Celebrities like Cardi B, Megan Thee Stallion, Selena Gomez, and Ariana Grande have all been spotted embracing the nostalgic look, and we suspect it's headed towards a full-blown comeback. Pinterest thinks so too, according to its highly anticipated fall trend report.
So, if you’re feeling the urge to head to the salon for a fresh fringe or even a duo-tone color moment à la Aguilera, you’re definitely not alone. The 2000s are calling, and they’ve never looked more modern.
