Iconic 90s Hairstyles – Retro Haircuts Ideas for Women in 2024: Short, Curly, and Long Hair Looks
Are you ready to relive the iconic hairstyles of the 90s? From the cute and quirky updos to the edgy grunge looks, 90s hairstyles are making a comeback in 2024 with a fresh twist. Whether you’re looking for easy everyday styles or something bold and nostalgic, this guide covers everything you need to know. We’ll dive into short and long hair options, layers, and even the beloved blowout.
Let’s explore the inspiration from that unforgettable decade!
The Rachel Cut
The Rachel Cut, popularized by Jennifer Aniston on Friends, is one of the most iconic 90s hairstyles – retro haircuts ideas. This layered look, perfect for medium hair, is all about volume and bounce. The style suits those with curly hair or straight hair and adds life to otherwise flat strands.
For maintenance, use Living Proof Full Shampoo to add body and Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum for shine. Apply a round brush blowout for that 90s glam.
Crimped Hair
Crimped hair was a staple in the early 90s, adding texture and volume. This look is great for long hair and those looking to enhance curly or wavy hair.
To achieve the perfect crimps, apply TRESemmé Thermal Creations Heat Tamer before using a crimping iron. Add Got2b Glued Blasting Freeze Spray to lock the style in place for a day of volume.
Butterfly Clips with Loose Waves
Butterfly clips were a fun way to accessorize in the 90s. Pair them with loose waves for a cute, laid-back look that’s both easy to recreate and suitable for any face shape.
To get soft waves, apply Bumble and bumble Surf Spray for texture and hold. Add Scunci Butterfly Clips to secure small sections and complete the look.
Slicked-Back High Ponytail
The slicked-back high ponytail was an essential 90s aesthetic. This style is perfect for black women and latina women, offering a polished look that suits short hair as well.
For a sleek finish, use Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel to tame flyaways and Creme of Nature Argan Oil Perfect Edges for smooth, defined edges.
Baby Spice Pigtails
These playful updos were synonymous with the 90s. Ideal for medium to long hair, this style looks great on those with curly or straight hair.
For added texture, use Not Your Mother’s Beach Babe Sea Salt Spray and secure each side with Goody Ouchless Hair Elastics for all-day hold.
Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs were a go-to style for those who wanted a chic yet grunge look. This versatile cut flatters all face shapes and is perfect for short to medium hair.
Use Redken All Soft Shampoo and Conditioner to keep hair shiny and soft, and add Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum for smoothness.
Chunky Highlights
The chunky highlights trend is back, adding dimension and contrast to long hair. Ideal for black women and latinas, this style adds bold color without needing a full dye.
To maintain, use Matrix Total Results Brass Off Shampoo for a vibrant tone, and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Conditioner for hydration.
Space Buns
Space buns add a funky, aesthetic touch, perfect for those seeking inspiration for updos. They work well for curly hair and suit any hair length, from short to long.
For volume, apply Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray and secure each bun with Conair Bobby Pins for a firm hold.
The Classic Bob with a Middle Part
The middle-part bob is a timeless style that adds structure and frames the face beautifully. This style suits all face shapes and works well for medium hair lengths. It’s sleek, cute, and perfect for a polished look.
For smoothness and shine, try John Frieda Frizz Ease Extra Strength Serum and TIGI Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream. Use a flat iron to get that sleek finish that this style demands.
Zig-Zag Parting
The zig-zag parting was a fun and edgy trend in the 90s. It’s ideal for short hair and long hair alike, adding a quirky twist to otherwise simple styles. This playful parting suits those looking for a youthful, aesthetic vibe.
To get a defined zig-zag, use a fine-toothed comb and L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Design Line Special FX Out of Bed Texturizer for hold. Finish with Paul Mitchell Freeze and Shine Super Spray for long-lasting style.
Tendril Updo
The tendril updo was everywhere in the 90s, with loose pieces framing the face. This updo is perfect for curly hair and black women looking for an elegant style with a retro touch. It’s great for nights out or any occasion where you want to look effortlessly stylish.
To keep tendrils soft yet defined, use Aveda Be Curly Curl Enhancer and secure the rest with Goody Ouchless Elastics. Add hairspray like Aussie Mega Hairspray for all-day hold.
Flipped Ends
Flipped ends add a playful twist to medium hair or long hair, giving it that unmistakable 90s charm. This style is especially flattering for those with round or oval face shapes and adds volume at the ends for a bouncy, cute look.
Use Hot Tools Professional Gold Curling Iron to flip the ends, and finish with Kenra Volume Spray 25 for hold and volume.
Scrunchie High Ponytail
The scrunchie high ponytail is an iconic look that’s as easy to create as it is to wear. This style works well for curly and straight hair alike, adding a youthful touch with a touch of aesthetic appeal.
For added texture, use Ouai Texturizing Hair Spray and secure with a Scünci Velvet Scrunchie. Add Batiste Dry Shampoo for volume if needed.
The Mushroom Cut
The mushroom cut, also known as the bowl cut, was a bold 90s trend that’s making a surprising comeback. This short grunge style is great for black women and latina women with thick hair, adding structure and volume.
For styling, use TIGI Bed Head Manipulator Matte Wax and Aveda Control Force Firm Hold Hairspray for long-lasting shape and hold.
Faux Locs
Faux locs were a major trend in the 90s, offering the look of natural locs without the long-term commitment. This 90s hairstyles – retro haircuts ideas style is especially popular among black women and latinas with long hair, providing an effortlessly chic vibe. Faux locs can be styled in various ways, including updos and ponytails, adding versatility to the look.
For maintenance, use Jamaican Mango & Lime Tingle Shampoo and Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey for shine and hydration. To prevent buildup, cleanse the scalp regularly and keep the locs moisturized with light oils like Tea Tree Oil.
Twisted Half-Up, Half-Down Style
The twisted half-up, half-down style combines the elegance of an updo with the casual feel of loose hair. Ideal for curly hair, this style is perfect for black women or anyone seeking a cute and easy way to manage medium hair. It’s great for both casual and formal occasions, allowing for versatility in styling.
To keep curls defined, apply DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler, and for added hold, use Cantu Shea Butter Extra Hold Edge Stay Gel. Twist small sections and secure with bobby pins for a flawless look.
Pixie Cut with Spiky Top
The pixie cut with a spiky top is a bold, short grunge look that was popular among 90s icons. This style works well for short hair and suits those with strong features and a daring personality. It’s a low-maintenance style that exudes edge and aesthetic appeal, making it perfect for anyone seeking a 2024 take on a classic look.
For styling, use L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Overworked Hair Putty to create texture and hold. Finish with Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray for an all-day firm hold.
Braided Tendrils
Braided tendrils are a fun, early 90s trend that adds a whimsical touch to updos and ponytails. This style is ideal for long hair or medium hair and suits those looking for a cute yet elegant twist. Braided tendrils can be paired with a variety of hairstyles, making them versatile and easy to incorporate.
For smooth braids, apply Mielle Organics Rosemary Mint Strengthening Edge Gel and secure with small elastics. For added shine, use Moroccanoil Treatment to finish.
Messy Updo with Hair Pins
The messy updo with hair pins was a go-to look for casual outings in the 90s. Perfect for curly and straight hair, this updo suits all hair types and face shapes, offering a relaxed, effortless style. It’s also incredibly easy to create, making it an excellent option for everyday wear.
Use Bumble and bumble Thickening Dryspun Texture Spray for volume, and add hair pins with designs for a retro vibe. For hold, use Aussie Instant Freeze Hairspray to ensure your updo stays intact.
The French Roll
The French roll is an elegant style that adds sophistication to any look. Perfect for medium hair or long hair, this updo was a popular choice for formal events in the 90s. It suits those with straight or curly hair and can be adorned with pins or clips for added flair.
For a sleek French roll, apply Kenra Platinum Texturizing Taffy 13 to keep strands in place, and secure with Conair Bobby Pins. Finish with TRESemmé Tres Two Extra Hold Hairspray for all-day elegance.
MidJourney Prompt: A woman with a French roll, positioned in an outdoor park, wearing a 90s trench coat and delicate pearl earrings. She has dark brown eyes, and her serene expression matches the peaceful background.
Ombre Highlights
Ombre highlights bring a subtle yet stylish gradient to black hair, ideal for those looking to add dimension without a full dye job. This style is great for black women and latinas with long hair, adding warmth and depth.
For upkeep, use L’Oréal Paris EverPure Sulfate-Free Color Care Shampoo and Redken Color Extend Magnetics Conditioner. To enhance shine, try John Frieda Brilliant Brunette Liquid Shine Illuminating Conditioner.
Bandana Headband Style
The bandana headband style is an aesthetic choice that adds a laid-back, edgy feel to any look. This style suits short hair and medium hair, particularly curly hair, and is easy to achieve with just a bandana and a few bobby pins.
For defined curls, use SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie and secure with a bandana of your choice. Finish with Maui Moisture Curl Quench Coconut Oil Curl Milk to keep curls hydrated.
Brown Curly Cascade
The Brown Curly Cascade is a voluminous and cascading look perfect for those with long hair who want to show off their natural curly hair. This style suits black women and latinas beautifully, adding depth and dimension to darker hair tones. The cascading curls create a soft, cute aesthetic that frames the face and accentuates natural features.
To maintain the shape and softness of the curls, use Aussie Miracle Curls Curl-Defining Oil to reduce frizz and add shine. Follow with DevaCurl SuperCream Coconut Curl Styler for extra hydration and hold. For best results, diffuse dry with a hair dryer and scrunch with your hands.
Spiral Perm
The spiral perm was an early 90s favorite, adding bounce and texture to long hair. This style is best suited for those looking for a dramatic, curly hair transformation. It offers volume and a playful look, perfect for anyone looking to embrace the full retro aesthetic.
For curls that last, use Aussie Miracle Curls Frizz Taming Cream and OGX Locking + Coconut Curls Air Dry Cream. Spritz with Not Your Mother’s Curl Talk Refreshing Curl Foam to keep curls fresh between washes.
The Shaggy Mullet
The shaggy mullet was a favorite among those who embraced grunge and alternative styles. This short grunge cut suits black women and latinas looking for an edgy style with a twist. It works best for short hair and offers a laid-back, effortless vibe.
For texture, use Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray and finish with Bumble and bumble Sumotech for hold. Finger-style to enhance the shaggy effect.
Chunky Face-Framing Layers
Chunky face-framing layers add definition and shape, perfect for medium hair and long hair. This style complements round and oval face shapes, giving an updated, aesthetic look to classic layers. It’s a great choice for those looking to try something cute and versatile.
Use Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum to tame flyaways, and add Kenra Volume Spray 25 for a full-bodied look. A blow-dry with a round brush will help define the layers.
Conclusion
The 90s hairstyles – retro haircuts ideas are back and better than ever, bringing classic styles into 2024 with modern twists. Whether you’re looking for short, curly, or long hair options, there’s a retro look for everyone. Try out one of these styles and let us know in the comments which one is your favorite!
