How to Rock 90s Hairstyles (Yes, They’re Back!)

The '90s hairstyles revival is officially here, and they are just as fun, bold, and versatile as they were the first time around. Hair in the 90s was all about volume, texture, and playfulness, whether you were into polished minimalism, grunge-inspired edge, or candy-colored accessories. Think crimped hair, frosted tips, and butterfly clips, each one instantly recognizable and endlessly customizable.

Today, these throwback looks are being reimagined, blending the nostalgic charm of hairstyles from the 90s with modern styling techniques and products. Whether you’re planning a '90s hairstyle for a themed party or just want to experiment with trends that have made a big comeback, here are 10 looks worth trying.

Hairstyle #1: High Pigtails

Nothing says 90s hair like high pigtails. This pop star-inspired style, made famous by '90s teen icons, was playful, youthful, and often paired with scrunchies or glittery elastics. To keep yours sleek and frizz-free, smooth a small amount of L’Oréal Paris Elnett Anti-Frizz Slick Back Hair Styling Cream through your strands before securing each ponytail high on your head. Add scrunchies or bright hair ties for that authentic ‘90s hairstyle women vibe.

Hairstyle #2: Crimped Hair

A true symbol of '90s hair trends, crimped hair delivered instant volume, texture, and a carefree attitude. Back then, crimping irons were a staple styling tool, and today you can recreate the look in a heat-free way by braiding damp hair into small sections and letting it dry overnight. For a lasting result, work L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle BOOST IT Volume Inject Mousse through your hair before braiding. This will help hold the wave pattern while keeping your crimped style bouncy.

Hairstyle #3: Face-Framing Strands

Known for their delicate, wispy effect, face-framing strands or “feathered bangs” were the perfect finishing touch to many popular hairstyles in the 90s. Worn with buns, ponytails, or braids, they softened the look while highlighting facial features. After styling your updo, pull out two even sections from the front, then set them in place with a mist of L'Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Classic Hairspray to keep them smooth all day.

Hairstyle #4: Spiral Curls

Tight spiral curls were a texture-rich favorite ‘90s hairstyle, embraced by both natural curls and heat-styled versions. These hairstyles from the ‘90s embodied bounce and energy, especially when paired with layered cuts. For a modern twist, prep with L'Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Heat Slayer Leave-In, then use a small-barrel curling wand to wrap one-inch sections. Hold briefly, release, and repeat for uniform curls that last.

Hairstyle #5: Half-Up, Half-Down with Butterfly Clips

Few accessories scream 90s hairstyle more than butterfly clips. This playful, half-up look was worn by everyone from teens to pop stars, often in pastel or glitter finishes. To recreate it, section the top half of your hair, split it into smaller pieces, twist, and clip them at the crown. For extra smoothness and control, apply L’Oréal Paris Elnett Anti-Frizz Slick Back Hair Styling Cream before adding your clips.

Hairstyle #6: The Middle Part

The middle part dominated 90s hair trends, seen in everything from sleek bobs to long, layered cuts. Its symmetrical framing worked for casual and dressy styles alike, and it’s just as versatile now. To nail the polished version, run L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer Serum Leave-In through your lengths, then part down the middle using the tip of a fine-tooth comb for clean lines.

Hairstyle #7: Slicked Back

Slicked-back hair was one of the most effortlessly cool ‘90s hairstyles men and women wore. Its appeal came from its balance of polish and edge, whether paired with a suit or a slip dress. For a sleek finish, work L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Above It All Invisi-Gel through damp hair, comb it back, and let it air dry or set it with a blow dryer on low.

Hairstyle #8: Frosted Tips

This ‘90s hairstyle, synonymous with boy bands, was all about lightened ends against darker roots, giving a bold, high-contrast finish. If you’re experimenting, go for a non-committal approach with L’Oréal Paris Colorista Hair Makeup Temporary 1-Day Hair Color Spray. Since it washes out in one shampoo, you can try different shades without commitment or damage.

Hairstyle #9: Gelled and Spiked

One of the boldest statements in ‘90s hairstyles for men, gelled spikes were sharp and unapologetically rebellious. They emphasized structure and edge. For a modern version, apply L'Oréal Paris Studio Line Head Lock Mega Gel to damp hair, then use your fingers to pull sections upward into defined spikes. This style works especially well for short cuts, giving them texture and staying power.

Hairstyle #10: The Curtain Haircut

One of the most iconic middle part ‘90s boy haircut styles, the curtain cut framed the face with longer layers, often worn slightly tousled. Think Leonardo DiCaprio or Jonathan Taylor Thomas in their teen idol days. For a smooth finish, style your middle part 90s boy haircut with a blow dryer and round brush, then lock in the look with L’Oréal Paris Elnett Satin Extra Strong Hold Classic Hairspray.

Next Up: 6 ‘'90s-Inspired Makeup Trends To Try Right Now

Photo courtesy of L’Oréal Paris 

 Photo credit: IG/@vilma_vavavoom, @jessica_young_model, @the.caffeinated.hairstylist