The 2000s hairstyle spotted at Cannes 2026 that rejuvenates faces after 40

On the red carpets of the Cannes Film Festival 2026, a hair trend is catching everyone’s eye. The most iconic hairstyle of the 2000s is back, modernized and brighter than ever – and it’s particularly appealing to women over 40.

The side parting, a 2000s hairstyle back on the red carpet

This season, actresses are putting hair back at the center of their style. Worked volume, long locks swept across the forehead, soft waves: the hair silhouette of the 2000s is back with a new sophistication. The side parting is the leading hairstyle of the moment.

This comeback is no accident. Hairdressing professionals now present this trend as one of the most versatile of the moment. What’s more, it works on a wide range of lengths, from long bobs to long waves and layered mid-lengths.

It’s all about movement and texture. The side parting immediately creates an impression of density, making it particularly interesting when hair loses a little substance over time.

Monica Bellucci, at 61, is a perfect example of this trend.

Monica Bellucci ‘s look was one of the most talked-about at Cannes 2026. At 61, the actress adopted a deep side parting, combined with a long lock and wavy lengths with warm highlights.

The result is striking: a visually brighter face and softened features, without a frozen effect. This revisited version of the 2000s hairstyle proves that a simple hair placement can transform an entire look.

“The side strand acts almost like a natural filter: it slightly blurs certain areas of the face while giving the hairstyle lots of character.”

Why this hair trend is flattering after 40

Hairdressers appreciate the side parting for very practical reasons. It adds volume to the roots, draws the eye towards the eyes and the smile, and softens the contours of the face. As a result, it’s a real asset for women looking for a hairstyle that’s both modern and kind to the features.

What’s more, this hairstyle breaks the “frozen hairstyle” effect and gives a more supple look. Celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Andie MacDowell also opt for supple, luminous hairstyles that emphasize movement rather than strict lines.

This trend can be found in blurred bobs, natural wavy hairstyles, bold grays, soft glam brushings and slightly layered lengths. In short, this style can be adopted by almost any hair type.

• Adds volume to roots
• It draws the eye and the smile
• Softens facial contours
• It breaks the “frozen hairstyle” effect
• It gives a softer, more modern look

A hairstyle that works on all lengths

Long bob, layered mid-length or wavy long hair: the side parting adapts to every length. Yet it’s not the cut alone that makes the difference, it’s above all the movement created by the side parting.

On the other hand, ultra-straightened hair or hair set with too much hairspray will ruin the desired effect. Natural texture remains the best ally for this revisited 2000s hairstyle.

How to adopt this 2000s hairstyle without a “throwback” effect

The key lies in modernizing the codes, without reproducing the look at face value. For example, a clean but natural parting, tapered locks and soft waves are all it takes to create a contemporary look. Warm highlights also bring light to the face.

On the other hand, certain details are to be avoided at all costs: ultra-straightened hair, stiff hairspray, excessive volume and overly dark, uniform colors. These elements are a direct throwback to the 2000s, without the modern touch that makes all the difference today.

To achieve this style at home, professionals recommend a volumizing mousse applied to the roots, a texturizing spray to give movement, and a shine mist to illuminate the lengths without weighing them down. However, these products are optional: the key is to draw the parting and let the strand fall naturally.

This 2026 version of the 2000s hairstyle is softer, more natural and brighter than its predecessor. It brings style without rigidity, and proves that a hair trend can survive the decades by evolving with the times.

• 2000s hairstyles