Rock the Retro: Mastering 90s Hairstyles Today

The 90s was a revolutionary time for fashion and beauty, setting trends that have returned to our hearts and hair routines.

From the bold and edgy to the sleek and chic, 90s hairstyles embodied a spirit of rebellion and individuality that resonates with many today. This guide'll dive into the iconic 90s hairstyles and provide step-by-step instructions to help you rock these retro looks with a modern twist.

The 90s hair comeback

The resurgence of 90s hairstyles isn't just about nostalgia; it's about embracing the creativity and uniqueness that the decade represented. The '90s was a time of experimentation, where music, fashion, and culture converged to create bold and unforgettable looks. Today, we are seeing a revival of these styles, blending them with contemporary trends to create something uniquely current yet reminiscent of the past.

The appeal of retro styles:

• Nostalgia: For many, these hairstyles evoke fond memories of their youth and offer a comforting connection to the past.
• Individuality: The '90s celebrated self-expression through fashion and beauty, encouraging people to stand out rather than blend in.
• Versatility: From grunge to glam, 90s hairstyles cover a broad spectrum, offering something for every taste and occasion.

Top 90s hairstyles to rock today

The Rachel Cut

Who can forget the iconic hairstyle made famous by Jennifer Aniston on Friends? Characterised by its layered, voluminous look, the Rachel cut became a defining style of the '90s.

How to get it

1. Ask your stylist for a shoulder-length cut with face-framing layers.
2. Use a round brush and blow dryer to add volume and shape.
3. Finish with a light mist to keep the layers bouncy and defined.

Crimped Hair

Crimped hair screams '90s fun and adds texture and volume that can be incorporated into various styles.

How to get it:

1. Use a crimping iron on dry hair, working in sections to ensure even texture.
2. For a modern twist, crimp only a few sections underneath the hair.
3. Set with a light hairspray to maintain the crimped effect without weighing the hair down.

The high ponytail with a scrunchy

The high ponytail, often accessorised with a colourful scrunchy, is a simple yet iconic '90s look that's sporty and chic.

How to do it

1. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and secure it with a tie.
2. Cover the barrette with a scrunchy for an authentic '90s vibe.
3. Pull out some face-framing pieces for a softer, more relaxed look.

Celebrity-Inspired 90s Hairstyles

In a world where past and present collide to create something uniquely captivating, 90s hairstyles have resurfaced and reimagined through the lens of today's celebrities. These style icons pay homage to the era's defining looks and infuse them with modern sensibilities, making each hairstyle as relevant today as it was decades ago. Below, we'll explore how you can recreate these celebrity-inspired '90s hairstyles and add your contemporary twist to make them yours.

Zendaya's Voluminous Curls

Zendaya often channels the quintessential '90s look with her voluminous, bouncy curls that exude elegance and playfulness.

• Get the look: Use a medium barrel curling iron to create loose waves throughout your hair. Apply a volumising spray or mousse to the roots and mid-lengths for an enviable body and bounce.
• Modern twist: Consider adding subtle highlights or opting for a balayage technique to incorporate modern colour trends and give your curls dimension and a sun-kissed finish.

Rihanna's Crimped Hair

Style chameleon Rihanna has embraced the crimped hair trend, reviving the textured and voluminous look that defined much of '90s hair fashion.

• Get the look: Section your hair and use a crimping iron on each section to achieve the iconic crimped texture. To avoid a dated look, focus on crimping only select sections for a more nuanced style.
• Modern Twist: Integrate sleek and crimped textures by crimping only the underlayers or mid-lengths to the ends of your hair. This creates a dynamic look that's both edgy and sophisticated.

Harry Styles' curled hair

Harry Styles has brought back the heartthrob curtain hair of the '90s, proving its timeless appeal with his modern take on the style.

• Get the look: Ask for a layered cut for movement and flow. Use a lightweight styling product to add volume at the roots and blow dry with a round brush to encourage the hair to fall naturally into the signature curled shape.
• Modern Twist: Enhance the look with a texturising spray or sea salt spray to add a contemporary, effortless edge to the soft waves, making the style more relaxed and approachable.

Kim Kardashian's High Ponytail

Kim Kardashian's sleek, high ponytail, often accessorised with a statement piece like a scrunchie, combines '90s flair with modern glam.

• Get the look: Achieve sleekness by straightening your hair before pulling it back into a high ponytail. Use a fine-toothed comb to smooth out any bumps, and wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the rubber band.
• Modern twist: Elevate the ponytail with a braided or twisted element around the base, or incorporate a velvet or silk scrunchie for a luxe touch that adds sophistication to this playful style.

Alicia Keys' Box Braids

Alicia Keys pays tribute to the cultural and stylish significance of box braids, a protective style that gained immense popularity in the '90s and continues to be celebrated today.

• Get the look: Part your hair into even squares and braid each one with synthetic extensions for added length and volume, securing the ends with hair bands or dipping them in hot water.
• Modern Twist: Personalize your box braids by experimenting with different braid sizes, incorporating coloured strands, or adding decorative beads and gold cuffs to reflect your style while maintaining the essence of the '90s.

Tips for Modernizing Your 90s Hairstyle

While embracing 90s hairstyles, adapting them to today's aesthetic is essential. Here are some tips for giving these retro looks a contemporary edge:

1. Subtle incorporation: Instead of going full-on '90s, incorporate elements of the style into your current look. For example, add crimped sections to loose waves or a modern haircut.
2. Update the accessories: Replace traditional '90s accessories with modern versions, such as a sleek, minimalist scrunchie instead of a brightly coloured one.
3. Focus on healthy hair: The '90s were notorious for heat styling and harsh hair treatments. Today, prioritise hair health using heat protectants and embracing your natural texture.

Embrace 90s nostalgia with MOBILESTYLES

Reviving '90s hairstyles is more than a fashion statement; it's a celebration of a decade that championed individuality and creativity. Whether you're looking to fully embrace the retro look or add a touch of nostalgia to your modern style, these iconic 90s hairstyles offer endless inspiration.

Ready to rock a 90s hairstyle but need a professional touch? MOBILESTYLES connects you with mobile beauty professionals who can help you achieve the perfect retro look from the comfort of your home. From Rachel cuts to crimped hair, our experts will bring you the best of the 90s, ensuring your hairstyle is authentic and in tune with today's trends. Visit MOBILESTYLES today to book your appointment and bring the iconic 90s back to life!