If you didn’t beg for “The Rachel” at least once or rock spiky gelled bangs in your school photo, did you even live through the ‘90s? From frosted tips to mushroom cuts, 90s haircuts were bold, bizarre, and somehow still iconic.
And now? They’re making a serious comeback—like a Tamagotchi that never ran out of batteries. As someone who’s written hundreds of trend blogs (and survived a tragic bowl cut in ’97), I can say with full confidence: there’s no better time to dive back into the crimped, crunchy world of 90s hairstyles.
So what’s this post all about? We’re taking a fun, slightly nostalgic stroll through the most unforgettable 90s haircuts—why they mattered, what made them so 90s, and how they’re getting a glow-up today.
Whether you’re trying to name that haircut your mom forced on you in third grade, or you’re seriously considering a modern shag (don’t worry, I’ll guide you), you’re in the right place.
I’ll walk you through the cuts, the celebs who made them cool, and how they fit into today’s style game—minus the excessive hairspray.
Trust me, you don’t need to be a beauty guru or a ‘90s kid to appreciate these throwback styles. All you need is a sense of humor, a little curiosity, and maybe the emotional strength to see Justin Timberlake’s ramen hair again. Let’s get into it.
1. Baby Spice
I spent most of 1998 trying to master Baby Spice’s signature high pigtails—with mixed success and a lot of butterfly clips.
This look is sweet, flirty, and works best for anyone with medium to long hair who isn’t afraid to embrace a little pop star energy.
To pull it off, section your hair high on each side, curl the ends slightly, and secure with scrunchies or ribbons for that full retro vibe.
Looking for more playful looks like this? Try these cute school hairstyles for short hair.
2. Bouncy Blowouts
Bouncy blowouts are the kind of hair magic that instantly makes you feel like the main character.
I still remember my mom pulling out the round brush and blow dryer like she was prepping for a Vogue shoot.
This voluminous style flatters all face shapes and works especially well with layered cuts.
Use a heat protectant and large-barrel brush, then flip your hair upside down to boost volume.
For inspo on cuts that complement this style, check out these medium-length hairstyles for thick hair.
3. Braided Top Knot
I started rocking a braided top knot during Zoom meetings, and now I wear it everywhere.
It’s equal parts polished and playful—great for curly or textured hair too.
Just braid a top section, twist it into a bun, and pin. Add a little edge gel or glitter if you’re feeling extra.
4. Butterfly Clips
If you didn’t use 12 butterfly clips to keep two strands of hair in place, were you even in elementary school in the ‘90s?
These little guys are back in full force and honestly, I’m not mad about it.
They’re great for all hair lengths, especially for accenting half-up styles.
Just don’t overthink the placement—chaotic symmetry is very on-brand here.
Love butterfly-themed styles? You’ll adore this butterfly haircut for curly hair guide too.
5. Butterfly Embellishments
Unlike the plastic clips, butterfly embellishments lean more Y2K runway than school photo day.
I tried this on a whim for a festival and felt like a magical woodland creature.
Use sparkly or metallic butterfly pins on braided styles or updos.
It works beautifully with curls and waves, giving your look a whimsical finish.
6. Choppy Bob
My first real “grown-up” haircut was a choppy bob, and I felt like the coolest girl in algebra class.
This cut is edgy, low-maintenance, and super versatile.
Perfect for those with fine to medium hair, it looks best slightly tousled.
Add a texture spray and finger-style to keep that effortless 90s vibe.
Check out more short bob haircuts if you’re ready to chop it off.
7. Crimped Hair
Crimping was basically the gateway drug to hairstyling for many of us.
I dug up my old crimper last year, and let me tell you—it still slaps.
Best on medium to long hair, crimping adds wild texture and volume.
Crimp random sections for a more modern twist or go full-head for that nostalgic drama.
8. Face-Framing Messy Bun
This was the look I relied on during college: a high, messy bun with two wispy strands up front.
It’s casual chic and saves bad hair days in seconds.
Curl the front pieces slightly and use a scrunchie for that soft throwback feel. Works wonders for second-day hair.
9. Faux-Bangs
Faux-bangs saved me when I was too scared to make the chop.
Just flip your ponytail forward and pin, or roll a section over and secure.
It works well for experimenting with 90s haircuts without the commitment. Pro tip: use dry shampoo for grip and volume.
10. Flower Accessories
I went through a daisy obsession phase and honestly, I regret nothing.
Floral clips or pins can transform even a simple braid into something Pinterest-worthy.
Use real or faux flowers to accent buns, braids, or loose curls. Best on spring or summer days—or anytime you need to fake it.
11. Hair Jewels
The first time I tried stick-on hair gems, I felt like a Spice Girl heading to space. They’re back now, and more glam than ever.
Add them to sleek styles or even part lines for sparkle.
Great for festivals, weddings, or just because it’s Tuesday.
12. Headbands
I wore headbands so much as a kid I practically had a groove in my scalp.
Now, I rotate velvet, rhinestone, and padded styles like accessories.
They’re great for short or long hair and instantly elevate basic looks.
Push your hair back and let a few strands fall out for that effortless 90s charm.
13. Headwraps
These are my go-to for lazy hair days or beach trips. They channel boho vibes while hiding whatever chaos is happening underneath.
Works best with natural textures or waves. Go bold with colors and patterns to make it pop.
14. High Pigtails
A little punk, a little pop—high pigtails scream youthful rebellion. I wore them to a concert once and felt unstoppable.
Add some teasing at the crown for extra volume. This style loves thick hair and isn’t afraid of attention.
15. Messy Updo
Messy updos are like organized chaos—they look like you didn’t try, but you definitely did.
I use this for date nights and lazy brunches alike.
Pull hair back loosely, pin random sections, and let some strands fall out. Add a clip or scrunchie for bonus 90s flair.
16. Modern Layers
Modern layers are the cool cousin of 90s haircuts—they’ve matured, but still know how to party.
I went back to layers after years of blunt cuts, and it changed the game.
They suit every face shape and help create movement. Ask your stylist for soft, blended layers starting at the cheekbone.
17. Pixie Cut
I chopped it all off in 2010 and instantly felt like Winona Ryder. The pixie is bold, liberating, and super low-maintenance.
Best for oval and heart-shaped faces, it works with both sleek and tousled textures.
Just keep up with trims to maintain the shape. Need a little more confidence? These pixie cuts for women over 50 are timeless and chic.
18. Prom Updo
Yes, I had crunchy curls and rhinestone bobby pins—and yes, I still kind of love it.
The 90s prom updo is big, bold, and begging for a comeback.
Great for formal events, this style thrives on volume. Tease the roots, pin high, and don’t forget the hairspray.
19. The Crimp
This one’s so iconic it deserves a second shoutout. The crimp is back, and Gen Z is giving it the love it deserves.
Crimp a few face-framing pieces or go full glam for a night out.
Keep the rest of your look simple to let the texture shine.
20. The Outward Flip
The outward flip was my mom’s signature look—and now it’s mine. Think 90s sitcom chic with a bit of sass.
Use a round brush or flat iron to flick the ends outward.
Works best with medium-length bobs or shoulder-length hair.
21. The Rachel
Ah yes, the Holy Grail of 90s haircuts. I tried to get “The Rachel” in 2003 and walked out looking like a mushroom.
Still, I respect the power.
This cut flatters layered lovers and frames the face beautifully.
Ask for choppy layers starting at the chin and a voluminous blowout.
22. Tousled Curls
Tousled curls are the happy medium between glam and beachy. I started doing this after realizing I could skip brushing and still look cute.
Use a curling wand, skip perfection, and scrunch with mousse. It works well on almost any length.
23. Twists
Twists were the blueprint for protective styles long before they became mainstream.
I wore two-strand twists every summer growing up, and I still love them.
Great for natural hair, they’re stylish, low-maintenance, and versatile. Add beads or cuffs for an extra 90s touch.
24. Voluminous Updos
Big hair? Always in. I leaned into this for a retro wedding once, and honestly—it was a whole moment.
Tease the roots, use rollers or a curling iron, and pin everything up with volume at the crown.
Finish with shine spray and channel your inner diva.
25. Wixie Cut
This pixie-wolf hybrid is the new kid on the block with major throwback energy.
I tried it on a whim and fell in love with the edgy yet soft look.
Perfect for heart-shaped faces, the wixie is short, textured, and wildly modern.
Ask for choppy layers and style with pomade or cream for definition.
