Spice up your life—the 90s is making a comeback
The 90s are everywhere, and we mean *everywhere*. Whether you’re scrolling through your TikTok FYP, flipping through the latest fashion Insta pages, or spotting the latest beauty trends, it’s clear that the 90s have taken over—for the better. This decade’s influence is undeniable, making its way back into our closets, our makeup bags, and especially our hairstyles. From the resurgence of crimped hair to the re-emergence of chunky headbands, the 90s are back and stronger than ever. But we’re not just talking about a trend that will die out either, this is a full-on revival that’s bringing nostalgic vibes with a modern twist.
The 90s were defined by its boldness, its playful spirit, and the willingness to experiment with style. Today’s revival isn’t just copying old looks, it’s making them our own with a contemporary edge. That means taking the best elements of 90s fashion—like high-volume blowouts, feathered bangs, and space buns—and giving them a fresh, advert-ready glow-up.
Get ready to jump into the world of 90s hairstyles that’s made for the 2024 girlie. It’s like the Spice Girls meet Billie Eilish in an alternate universe, and we can’t get enough.
1) Face framing messy bun
The face-framing messy bun is the quintessential 90s hairstyle that we’re totally loving right now. Remember how every IT-girl back then had those perfectly tousled buns with long, face-framing tendrils? This style is all about that relaxed yet refined touch, effortlessly blending casual charm with a touch of sophistication.
In the 90s, this look was everywhere—from pop QUEENS like Gwen Stefani to the glam squads of high school halls. The beauty of the face-framing messy bun is how those deliberately left-out tendrils frame your face, giving off a “just rolled out of bed” feel with a side of high-fashion. Today, it’s a style that's been resurrected with a modern twist, loved by contemporary style icons like Kendall Jenner. She’s all about that polished messiness, proving that the face-framing messy bun is as versatile as it is cool-girl.
To recreate this look, let a few strands fall gracefully around your face, and add a touch of sea salt spray for that effortlessly cool, beachy texture. It’s a hairstyle that transitions seamlessly from a casual day out to an evening soirée, embodying that laid-back yet chic energy that’s perfect for the TikTok trendsetters of today. If you’re channeling a bit of 90s nostalgia or just looking for a fresh, easy-to-achieve style, the face-framing messy bun is your new go-to.
2) The outward flip
Throwback to the days when every magazine cover featured supermodels with that iconic outward flip. This hairstyle was a staple of the 90s and was famously worn by everyone from the Olsen twins to the cast of "Friends." The outward flip was all about volume and that stylish, flirty flip at the ends. Think of it as giving your hair a retro spin with a dash of old-money richness.
To recreate this look, start with freshly blow-dried hair. Use a round brush to add volume and shape, flipping the ends outwards for that classic 90s finish. If you’re looking to modernize this style, consider adding soft waves or a touch of shine serum to give it a glossy, high-fashion update. The outward flip is perfect for adding a bit of nostalgia to your look while staying current with what’s happening on BeautyTok right now.
P.S. Old money is on everyone’s minds right now, and the outward flip is a staple hairstyle in this ultra-cool new genre.
3) The crimp
Who could forget the crimped hair trend that took the 90s by storm? From the neon-lit school hallways to the glitzy red carpets, crimped hair was the ultimate way to stand out. It was the signature look of pop icons like Christina Aguilera and the Spice Girls or TV dream girls like the one and only Lizzie McGuire. This style was a fabby way to add that bold texture and volume that defined this very era.
We all know that crimped hair was everywhere, a must-have style for anyone wanting to make a statement. And whilst we’re not digging out those old-school crimping wands that could fry off our newly bleached locks, this 90s classic is definitely back with a modern twist. Today's version dials down the intense zigzag pattern, opting instead for softer, more natural waves that give you that retro feeling without overwhelming your hair.
To nail this hairdo, go for a crimper with adjustable heat settings or use a texturizing spray for a more relaxed aura. This updated crimped look easily channels a bit of 90s nostalgia while keeping things fresh and chic. It’s the perfect hairstyle for those who want to inject some fun retro energy into their modern-day style.
Oh, and please, please use a heat protectant, we love the 90s, but not the hair mishaps that came with it.
4) Feathered bangs
Feathered bangs were a staple 90s hairstyle, epitomized by Jennifer Aniston's iconic look on Friends. Seriously, who didn't dream of having those effortlessly chic bangs that framed her face just perfectly? Fast forward to today, and Jennifer Aniston is still killing it at 55. Her feathered bangs remain a timeless style—how does she do it?
But don’t think this style is stuck in the past. The feathered bang trend has been revived by today’s style stars like Sabrina Carpenter. The "Espresso" singer is making us swoon with her modern take on the feathered look, showing us that this retro style is just as fresh and FAB as ever. Sabrina’s blonde, feathered bangs add a cheeky yet playful twist to her look, and we’re all *living* for it.
To rock feathered bangs yourself, start with a layered cut to give your bangs that lived-in bounce. Blow-dry with a round brush to lift and shape your bangs away from your face, and finish with a touch of texturizing spray or light hold hairspray to keep things looking naturally complete.
5) Middle parting
Remember when a side fringe was practically a social requirement? Well, the middle parting is here to prove that sometimes, less *really* is more. This simple yet STUNning look was a favorite of 90s icons like Winona Ryder and it is making a huge comeback today. The middle parting gives your hair a clean, symmetrical appearance that’s perfect for showcasing your natural texture or adding a bit of volume.
To rock the middle parting, start by parting your hair evenly down the center. Use a flat iron or blow dryer to smooth out any kinks and add a bit of shine. For a 2024 twist, why not try adding soft waves or subtle highlights to showcase the clean lines of the parting?
6) 90s blowout
The number one 90s style right now? It’s got to be the GORG voluminous 90s supermodel blowout. We’re talking Cindy Crawford-level bouncy curls and full-bodied glam that screams “I OWN this runway”. This classic blowout is making waves once again, and it's the ultimate go-to for anyone looking to make a serious style statement.
If you're prepping for a night out or just want to add some oomph to your everyday look, the 90s blowout is your ticket to that runway-ready hair we’re dreaming of. And let’s be real—if you’re on TikTok, you know we’re doing everything in our power to get that bigger-the-better hair. From hot rollers to sleeping rollers and those legendary old-school blowouts, we’re channeling our inner 90s supermodel and loving every second of it.
To recreate this iconic look, start with clean, damp hair and use a round brush to lift and shape your curls as you blow-dry. For extra *something something*, add hot rollers or volumizing mousse to boost your roots. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep your style in place without sacrificing that dreamy bounce.
7) Hairbands
Hairbands are having a major moment, and we’re all in. Blair Waldorf might have bought the trend back already, but the 90s headbands are making another grand return, and this time, they're stealing the show. From the chunky, bold bands to those delicate, embellished styles, these accessories are more than just a throwback—they’re a full-blown revival.
Remember how every 90s girl seemed to have a headband on? No matter if it was the iconic thick plastic versions or the sparkly, adorned bands that were a staple of our childhood, headbands were everywhere.
And now, they’re making a comeback, but with a modern touch. Today’s headbands are all about versatility and personality. You don’t need to be a Gossip Girl to rock one either, just choose a style that compliments your outfit and your mood. Layer them up, go bold with patterns, or keep it simple and chic. Either way, headbands are here to inject some 90s nostalgia into your wardrobe and help you stand out in style.
After all, if it was a hit in the 90s, it’s definitely a must-have for us now.
8) Super thick headband
Move over, ultra-mini plastic hairbands—we’ve also got time for the super thick headband and it’s all about that bold, standout look. This chunky accessory was a staple of 90s style and is now having a glorious resurrection, thanks to influencers and TikTok superstars like Alix Earle. Think Sporty Spice meets modern chic, with a hefty dose of vintage cool.
But let’s not forget the iconic Cher Horowitz from Clueless. Cher’s effortlessly cool headband game set the bar high, and now we’re seeing the trend make a return in a major way. Inspired by today’s trendsetters like Bella Hadid, who has been spotted rocking thick headbands with everything from sleek tracksuits to casual streetwear, this look is all about combining retro charm with contemporary style.
To nail the super thick headband, choose one that contrasts with your hair color and complements your overall pared down look. To finish, match it with loose waves or a sleek, straight style to keep things fresh and chic.
9) Old money bob
Before she was the face of “America’s Next Top Model,” Tyra Banks ruled the runway with her iconic old money bob. This classic 90s hairstyle features a flipped-out long bob (AKA a LOB) with added volume at the crown, creating a look that’s both sophisticated and *expensive*. The old money bob is all about that polished, high-fashion appeal that never goes out of style, but looks damn pricey. Think caramel blonde tones and lusciously expensive highlights that scream glamor and opulence.
To get the old money bob, start with a sleek, blunt cut and use a round brush to add volume and shape to your ends. For the ultimate money look, incorporate some caramel blonde highlights or a few creamy blonde streaks that catch the light and add depth. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep those locks perfectly in place, giving you that runway-ready, high-fashion vibe that’s both timeless and effortlessly chic.
10) Space buns
Channel your inner Spice Girl with space buns—the playful, fun hairstyle that defined a generation on its own. This look, famously worn by Gwen Stefani and other 90s icons such as Scary Spice, is all about embracing your bold side and having a bit of fun with your hair. Space buns are perfect for adding a touch of whimsy and creativity to your hair, making them a standout choice for any fashion-forward girlie.
To create space buns, simply part your hair down the middle and twist each section into a bun at the top of your head. For a modern update, try adding some colorful hair accessories or braids to your buns for extra *spice*.
Are you a 90s baby?
One thing is clear from these 90s hairstyles—and it’s that nostalgia never goes out of style. The 90s brought us unforgettable looks, and now it’s our turn to reinvent them. If you’re channeling Jennifer Aniston’s feathered bangs, rocking a face-framing messy bun, or flaunting a super thick headband like a modern-day Cher, there’s no denying that the 90s are back and coming in hot.
Who’s your 90’s muse? Jen Ann, the Olsen’s? Let’s go off and celebrate the return of these iconic styles and let our hair do all the talking. Here’s to a little retro fun with a whole lot of modern charm, because after all—it’s the 90s baby.
