The 90s were a defining decade for many things, and one of the most memorable aspects was the unique and bold hairstyles that took the fashion world by storm. Whether you were a child in the 90s or are just discovering the trend, there’s no denying the influence this era had on hair fashion. From chunky highlights to sleek ponytails, the 90s were full of experimentation and creativity.
In this post, we’ll explore some of the most iconic 90s hairstyles that you can try today. Whether you want to relive the fun of your childhood or experience the vibe for the first time, these hairstyles are sure to bring some nostalgic flair to your look. Let’s dive into these popular styles that made waves in the 90s, and how you can easily recreate them.
1. The Rachel Cut
The “Rachel” haircut, made famous by Jennifer Aniston’s character on Friends, is undoubtedly one of the most iconic 90s hairstyles. This layered look had a lot of volume and movement, with feathered layers framing the face, offering a soft yet structured shape.
How to Style It:
To achieve the Rachel cut, ask your stylist for layers that hit around your shoulders and ensure they are blended well. You’ll need a blow dryer and a round brush to add volume at the crown. A bit of mousse or light styling gel can help keep the layers in place for a natural, bouncy finish.
This hairstyle suits medium to long hair and is great for anyone with straight or slightly wavy hair. For a modern twist, you can add some subtle highlights or lowlights to give the style more depth and texture.
2. The Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was a huge trend during the 90s, and it’s easy to see why it made such an impact. This textured, wavy look is great for adding volume and a fun, retro vibe. The crimping iron was a must-have tool for achieving this look back then, and it’s making a major comeback today.
How to Style It:
To recreate crimped hair, start with clean, dry hair. Use a crimping iron to create zigzag waves all over your hair, or just on certain sections for a more understated version. If you don’t have a crimper, you can also braid your hair overnight and then unravel it to achieve a similar effect. Finish off with a hairspray to keep the texture intact throughout the day.
Crimped hair works best on medium-length hair, but can also be worn with longer locks for a more dramatic effect. It’s the perfect hairstyle for a 90s-themed party or any casual day when you want to stand out.
3. The High Ponytail
The high ponytail was a signature look for many 90s pop stars, including Britney Spears and the Spice Girls. This hairstyle is incredibly versatile and can be worn in both casual and formal settings. It’s simple, yet undeniably chic.
How to Style It:
To get that perfect 90s high ponytail, gather your hair at the top of your head and secure it with a hair tie. For added volume, tease the hair at the crown before tying it back. To finish the look, wrap a small section of hair around the base of the ponytail to cover the elastic band, securing it with a bobby pin.
For a polished finish, you can smooth down any flyaways with a bit of hairspray. You can also curl the ends of the ponytail for some extra flair. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a colorful scrunchie for the ultimate 90s vibe.
4. The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut was especially popular for men and children in the 90s. It’s a fun, quirky hairstyle that can be adapted to suit different face shapes and personal styles. While it was once seen as a joke, it’s now being embraced by a younger generation as a trendy throwback.
How to Style It:
To rock the bowl cut, keep the hair around the crown short, and have the sides and back cut slightly longer. The key to this look is to ensure that the cut is straight across the forehead and around the ears, which gives it its signature “bowl” shape. Use a texturizing product to enhance the layers, and finish with a lightweight gel or wax for a sleek, modern twist.
This style can be worn with both straight and slightly wavy hair. A bowl cut is perfect if you want something bold and unique, and it works great for those with square or oval-shaped faces.
5. The Messy Bun
The messy bun became a staple of the 90s, often worn as a relaxed yet stylish way to pull your hair back. Celebrities like Gwen Stefani and Drew Barrymore made this laid-back look their signature. The key to this look is to embrace the messiness and not overdo it with perfection.
How to Style It:
To create the messy bun, gather your hair loosely at the top of your head and tie it into a bun using a hair tie. Leave a few strands loose around the face to give it that effortless, undone vibe. For added volume, you can tease your hair before pulling it into the bun. Use a few bobby pins to secure any stray pieces of hair that are too long to stay in place.
This style works best for medium to long hair and can be dressed up or down depending on your outfit. Add a few accessories like a colorful scrunchie or hair clips to elevate the look.
6. The Slicked-Back Look
Slicked-back hair was one of the edgier looks in the 90s, worn by celebrities like Will Smith and Jennifer Lopez. This style gave a sleek, sophisticated appearance, perfect for those who wanted a more polished and formal look.
How to Style It:
To achieve the slicked-back style, start with damp hair and apply a generous amount of gel or pomade. Comb the product through your hair, using your fingers to smooth everything back. Once you’ve achieved the desired shape, use a blow dryer to set the look in place. For extra shine, you can apply a bit of hairspray or shine serum.
This hairstyle works well for short to medium-length hair, and it’s ideal for formal events or professional settings.
7. The Butterfly Clips
Butterfly clips were the ultimate hair accessory in the 90s. Whether you wore your hair in braids, a ponytail, or just let it hang loose, adding a few colorful butterfly clips was the perfect way to complete your look.
How to Style It:
To incorporate butterfly clips into your hairstyle, try pulling back small sections of your hair and securing them with the clips. You can place them at the crown, on the sides, or even along the length of your hair. For a more bold look, add multiple clips in different colors.
This accessory works well with any hairstyle, from braids to loose waves, and is a fun way to incorporate some 90s nostalgia into your everyday look.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try 90s Hairstyles
The 90s were all about experimenting with different looks, and the hairstyles from that decade are still as popular as ever. Whether you’re revisiting your youth or trying these styles for the first time, 90s hairstyles offer something for everyone. From the chic and polished high ponytail to the bold and playful crimped hair, these timeless looks are perfect for adding a touch of retro flair to your modern style.
Incorporating these hairstyles into your look will not only give you a blast from the past, but it will also showcase your unique sense of style. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try one (or more!) of these iconic 90s hairstyles today!