T.H.E R.A.C.H.E.L C.U.T
The 90s always seem to be in style, either through clothes, accessories, technology, and of course, hair. The best part is that most of these styles don’t require a drastic cut; just the right part, a few well-placed clips, or a little texture will go a long way. Whether you want to go full throwback or simply pay homage to a decade long past, these hairstyles are the way to do it.
1. Middle Part
A clean middle part is a simple shift that changes your whole look. It gives off that classic 90s “cool and effortless” vibe without much effort at all. If your hair doesn’t naturally part down the center, a little blow-dry direction helps it stay put.
2. Face-Framing Layers
Face-framing layers were everywhere in the 90s, and for good reason. They soften your look and make styling feel more intentional, even when you’re only throwing your hair in a ponytail. You can keep them subtle for a modern feel or go blunter for a stronger throwback.
3. The Rachel Cut
The Rachel is the iconic layered cut made famous in the 90s. It’s all about volume, bounce, and shorter layers that flip and move. You’ll want a round brush or blowout tool to really nail the shape.
Official White House Photo by Chuck Kennedy on Wikimedia
4. High Ponytail
A high ponytail brings instant 90s sporty energy. You can leave it sleek or pull out a few strands for a softer finish. A scrunchie or elastic wrapped with hair makes it feel even more era-appropriate.
5. Claw Clip Twist
Claw clips were a 90s staple, but they still hold sway today. Twist your hair up, clip it, and you’ve got a look that’s casual but still feels styled. It works especially well when you let a few pieces fall loose around your face. Choose a neutral clip for everyday or a colorful one for full throwback vibes.
6. Mini Butterfly Clips
Butterfly clips are adorable, playful, and incredibly functional. Use them to pin back the front sections or scatter a few through braids. Keeping the rest of your hair simple helps the clips stand out in a fun way. Pair with your favorite sunglasses, and you’ll look like you walked right out of the year 1999.
7. Half-Up Half-Down
Half-up hair was the go-to style for looking cute without trying too hard. It keeps hair out of your face while still showing off length and texture. You can secure it with a small claw clip, a barrette, or a scrunchie. Adding a little crown volume makes it feel more true to the decade.
8. Zigzag Part
The zigzag part is a classic 90s detail that changes your whole vibe. You can create it with the tail end of a comb in a few seconds. This works especially well with straight hair or sleek styles where the part is visible. It’s bold, it’s easy, and it looks totally cool.
9. Sleek Low Bun
A sleek low bun feels polished and very 90s minimalist. Brush hair back, smooth it down, and secure it low at the nape. A little shine serum helps it look clean instead of messy.
10. Spiky Bun
If you want a more playful throwback, the spiky bun delivers. Pull hair into a bun, but let the ends poke out instead of tucking them in. It’s a small detail that makes the style feel 90s intentionally. Pairing it with tiny clips or hoops completes the look. Don’t forget to put on your MAC lipstick before heading out.
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11. Flipped Ends
Flipped ends are one of the fastest ways to get 90s hair. You can use a round brush, flat iron, or curling iron to flick the ends outward. It looks especially good on shoulder-length cuts and bobs.
12. Blowout Volume
Big blowouts were a 90s staple, but they still hold sway today. Focus on lift at the roots and smooth movement through the lengths. You can set sections with rollers if you want extra hold. Even a lighter blowout gives you that bouncy, done-hair feeling. Plus, it takes next to no time to do it!
13. Thin Eyebrow Bangs
Super-thin, piecey bangs had a moment in the 90s. They’re less heavy than full fringe, so they’re easier to grow out when you decide to switch up your style. They usually pair well with updos, but do require a bit of maintenance to keep looking good.
14. Curtain Bangs
Curtain bangs feel like the approachable cousin of other 90s fringe styles. They frame your face and blend into the rest of your hair, which makes them easy to either style or simply push out of the way. You can wear them with a middle part for the full effect. A quick blow-dry away from your face gives them that signature sweep.
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15. Chunky Highlights
Chunky highlights are one of the most recognizable 90s hair trends, adding contrast and dimension that favors boldness. You can go for classic face-framing pieces or opt for highlights throughout. Keeping the rest of your styling simple helps the color stand out.
16. Crimped Texture
Crimping adds texture that feels instantly nostalgic. You can crimp the whole head or just a few sections for a more modern approach. It works especially well when you leave the roots smoother and focus on the lengths. A light hairspray helps the style hold without feeling stiff.
17. Space Buns
Space buns were a fun 90s staple, especially for casual days. Part your hair down the middle and twist each side into a bun. You can keep them neat or slightly messy, depending on what kind of outfit you’re wearing with them. Adding clips or a few loose strands keeps the look playful.
18. Headband Slick-Back
A headband with slicked-back hair is simple and very 90s sporty. It keeps hair off your face while still making you look more put-together. Don’t forget to add a super wide headband to complete this throwback look.
19. Side Part Sweep
The deep side part was a 90s favorite for a reason, and it’s still flattering. It adds instant volume at the crown and changes your face framing dramatically. You can wear it with waves, straight hair, or even a low bun, if you so choose.
20. Scrunchie Pony
A scrunchie ponytail is a small detail that adds a lot of 90s flavor. It’s gentle on your hair, and it instantly upgrades a basic pony. You can match the scrunchie to your outfit or go with a classic velvet one. Either way, you’ve instantly added a touch of fun to your look.
