Fashion has a funny way of circling back, and right now, the 1990s are having a major moment in hair trends.
From supermodel blowouts to butterfly clips, the styles that defined a generation are making their way back into salons and onto social media feeds everywhere.
Whether you grew up in the ’90s or you’re discovering these looks for the first time, there’s something undeniably cool about the decade’s effortless, playful approach to hair.
1. The Supermodel Blowout
Imagine walking down a runway with your hair flowing like silk behind you.
That’s exactly the vibe this hairstyle captures.
The supermodel blowout brings high-gloss volume with lifted roots that make you feel like you just stepped out of a fashion magazine.
Stylists use round brushes and blow dryers to create fluid movement that bounces with every step.
The key is getting those roots lifted while keeping the ends smooth and shiny.
This look works beautifully on medium to long hair.
You’ll need a good volumizing mousse and a shine serum to nail this style.
The best part?
It looks expensive and polished without being too stiff or formal, giving you that effortless supermodel energy wherever you go.
2. Space Buns, Reimagined
Remember when pop stars rocked two perfectly round buns on top of their heads?
Space buns are back, but with a fresh twist.
Today’s version is more sculptural and intentionally playful, bringing fun energy to any outfit.
Creating symmetrical buns takes a bit of practice, but the result is totally worth it.
Part your hair down the middle and twist each section into tight, round shapes.
Some people add braids or leave out face-framing pieces for extra style points.
This look screams confidence and creativity.
Whether you’re heading to a music festival or just want to stand out at school, space buns show you’re not afraid to have fun with your hair and embrace your playful side.
3. Face-Framing Tendrils
Softness matters, especially when your hairstyle might otherwise feel too severe.
Face-framing tendrils are whisper-thin strands that delicately frame your face, creating a romantic and gentle effect.
These pieces break up sharp lines and add feminine charm to updos and ponytails.
Pull out a few thin sections near your temples and cheekbones after styling your hair up.
You can leave them straight or add a slight curl with a small iron.
The goal is subtlety—these aren’t chunky pieces but delicate wisps.
Celebrities in the ’90s loved this trick because it made formal hairstyles feel more approachable and less rigid.
Today, it’s perfect for softening strong features or adding dimension to your look without much effort or styling time.
4. The Claw Clip Twist
Mornings when you’re running late call for quick solutions that still look intentional.
The claw clip twist delivers effortless elevation with that minimalist ’90s attitude everyone’s obsessing over.
Twist your hair loosely and secure it with a claw clip—done in thirty seconds.
This style works on almost any hair length past your shoulders.
The beauty lies in its imperfection; a few pieces falling out actually adds to the casual, cool vibe.
Choose clips in tortoiseshell, black, or even fun colors.
Office meetings, coffee dates, or lazy Sundays all become occasions for this versatile look.
It keeps hair off your neck while maintaining a polished appearance.
Plus, claw clips are making a huge comeback in stores everywhere, so you’ll find tons of options.
5. The Modern Rachel
One haircut defined an entire decade, and now it’s getting a contemporary update.
The Modern Rachel features precision layers that feel refined yet intentionally undone.
Unlike the original, today’s version is less voluminous and more textured, giving it a relaxed, lived-in quality.
Stylists cut layers around the face to create movement and dimension.
The length usually falls between the shoulders and collarbone.
This cut flatters oval and heart-shaped faces especially well, though skilled stylists can adapt it for anyone.
Maintaining this style requires regular trims every six to eight weeks.
Use texturizing spray and a round brush when blow-drying.
The result is a timeless, flattering cut that works for school, work, or weekend adventures without looking dated or overly trendy.
6. Curtain Bangs
Bangs don’t have to be a big commitment anymore.
Curtain bangs are softly parted down the middle, creating a feather-light frame around your face that’s universally flattering.
They blend seamlessly with the rest of your hair, making them incredibly versatile and easy to grow out.
These bangs typically start around eyebrow length and gradually get longer toward the sides.
Style them with a round brush, sweeping them away from your face.
They work beautifully with straight, wavy, or curly hair textures.
What makes curtain bangs special is their ability to soften any face shape.
They draw attention to your eyes while hiding a large forehead if that’s a concern.
Best of all, they require minimal styling effort—just a quick blow-dry and you’re good to go.
7. The Sleek High Pony
Confidence radiates when your hair is pulled back tight and high on your head.
The sleek high pony is pulled taut, wrapped at the base, and unmistakably bold.
This look means business while still being stylish and practical for active days.
Start with smooth, brushed hair and gather it at the crown of your head.
Secure with a strong elastic, then wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the band.
Use gel or pomade to slick down any flyaways for that polished finish.
Athletes and performers loved this style in the ’90s because it stayed put during intense movement.
Today, it’s equally popular for workouts, formal events, or just making a statement.
The height adds drama, while the sleekness keeps everything sophisticated and clean.
8. The Zigzag Part
Straight parts are fine, but why not add some personality?
The zigzag part is graphic, nostalgic, and unapologetically bold.
Created with the pointed end of a rattail comb, this part adds instant visual interest to any hairstyle, from ponytails to loose waves.
Making a zigzag part takes patience but gets easier with practice.
Section your hair where you want the part, then use the comb to create sharp angles back and forth.
The bolder the zigzag, the more dramatic the effect.
This detail was everywhere in the ’90s, from music videos to schoolyards.
It’s making a comeback because it’s a simple way to transform a basic style into something memorable.
Kids and teens especially love experimenting with different zigzag sizes and patterns.
9. Micro Braids
Not every braid needs to make a huge statement.
Micro braids work as delicate styling accents that add texture and detail without overwhelming your overall look.
Weave one or two tiny braids into loose hair, a ponytail, or even a bun for subtle interest.
These thin braids can be placed along your hairline, mixed into your length, or used to pull back sections from your face.
They’re perfect for adding a bohemian touch or just breaking up solid color and texture.
Secure them with small clear elastics.
The beauty of micro braids lies in their versatility and low commitment.
You can add them for a day or keep them in for several days.
They work on all hair types and lengths, making them an accessible trend for anyone wanting to experiment.
10. Butterfly Clips
Tiny plastic butterflies once covered heads everywhere, and now they’re fluttering back into fashion.
Butterfly clips offer nostalgic adornment when styled with restraint.
Instead of covering your entire head, use just a few strategically placed clips to pin back sections or add sparkle.
Choose clips in metallic colors, pastels, or classic black.
Twist small sections of hair and clip them back near your temples or along the sides.
The key to making this trend feel current is moderation—less is definitely more.
These clips are affordable, easy to find, and instantly recognizable to anyone who lived through the ’90s.
For younger people, they’re a fun discovery that adds personality to simple hairstyles.
They work equally well for casual days or dressed-up occasions when you want a playful touch.
11. The Blunt ’90s Bob
Sharp lines never go out of style, especially when they’re cut with intention.
The blunt ’90s bob features clean edges with subtle volume at the crown, creating a sophisticated silhouette that frames the face beautifully.
This cut sits anywhere from chin to shoulder length.
Stylists cut straight across the bottom, creating that signature blunt edge.
The crown area gets slightly layered or teased to add lift without sacrificing the overall geometric shape.
This contrast between volume and sleekness defines the look.
Maintaining a blunt bob requires commitment to regular trims every four to six weeks.
Style it straight with a flat iron for maximum impact, or add slight waves for a softer approach.
Either way, the sharp lines make a powerful statement about knowing exactly what you want.
12. Crimped Texture
Crimping irons created wild, zigzag texture throughout the ’90s, but today’s approach is more refined.
Modernized crimped waves are used for lift and dimension rather than creating a full-head throwback look.
Apply crimping to just the roots or select sections for contemporary styling.
Crimp the underneath layers or the hair at your crown to create volume that lasts all day.
This hidden texture gives your hair incredible body without the obvious crimped pattern showing on the surface.
It’s a secret weapon for fine or flat hair.
You can also crimp small sections throughout loose waves to add interesting texture variation.
The key is blending crimped pieces with smooth sections for a balanced, modern result.
This technique proves that ’90s tools still have a place in today’s styling routines when used thoughtfully.












