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Zig-Zag Hair Parts: Channeling the Power of the ’90s

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Zig-zag hair parts on the top or sides of the head were first in vogue in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Now, after nearly two decades, they are growing in popularity again. Zig-Zag hair parts prove the old adage “everything old is new again.”

The Birth of the Zig-Zag Hair Part Trend

Like so many trends that started showing up in the general public, Hollywood initially brought this hair part trend to the attention of young women across the country. Young actresses such as Sarah Michelle Gellar, while starring as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, first appeared with a zig-zag part in Season 2.

A contemporary of Gellar’s, actress and singer Mandy Moore, sported the zig-zag part and is also credited for popularizing it.

But of course, it had to be the on-set hairstylists who initially introduced the look to these on-screen actresses. After that, the star’s faithful fans picked up the zig-zag hair part torch, spreading it across the country.

What Makes Zig Zag Hair Parts Popular?

This hair part trend definitely adds pizazz to most hairstyles. If you are tired of the standard middle or side part, then a zig-zag part may be for you. Adding a certain visual interest to your look that can catch the onlooker by surprise.

How to Create a Zig-zag Part

A zig-zag part causes the hair to fall in a crisscross manner. For women who have thin or listless hair, it can help add volume to their hair, especially when the part is on the top of their head.

Of course, the easiest way to get a zig-zag hair part is to have a hairdresser do it for you. Or, try asking a friend. If neither of these two options is available to you, it is possible to do it yourself, but it will take a bit of practice.

To create a zig-zag part, start by thoroughly combing or brushing your hair to ensure it is tangle-free. Your hair can be dry or damp. 

Next, select your comb. If you use a rat tail comb, you will use the pointed end of the handle to create the part. If you choose an oversized or medium comb, you will use the tip of the first, fattest tooth on the comb. 

Decide where you want the part. Will it be on the side or the top of the head? 

Once you’ve decided on the placement, use the handle or tooth of the comb to push through your hair, from front to crown, in a zig-zag path. Be sure to keep the tip in contact with your scalp at all times. When you reach the crown of your head, set the comb down and use your fingertips to separate your slightly tangled tresses gently so they fall to the proper sides of your zig zagged part. 

You can use hair spray or gel to give a more finished look to your locks. The application of hair spray will help tame an unruly cowlick. Hair gel will smooth the individual strands of hair, giving a smooth, finished look.

Best Hair For a Zig Zag Hair Part

Zig-Zag hair parts can be created with any type of hair of varying lengths, thickness, or texture. They can even be created with wigs. Although thin hair tends to tangle more quickly than any other hair. Make sure your hair is clean and well-conditioned to cut down on the tangling. The silkier to the touch, the easier it will be to create a zig-zag part.

How long this re-birth of the zig-zag hair part will last is anybody’s guess. While it’s here, have fun with it. Try experimenting with different sizes and locations of your part. 

If you really want to be wild and crazy, consider making a zig-zag part starting at your hairline at the top of your forehead and zig-zagging all the way back and over the crown of your head down to the nape of your neck. Then gather your two sections of hair into pigtails that you can either braid or twist into matching messy buns on the sides of your head.

The possibilities to create with zig-zag hair parts are endless. Maybe you will be the next trend-setter.