22 Cool 90s Hairstyles for Guys That Defined the Decade
The 90s hairstyles for guys were bold, stylish, and experimental. From the grunge-inspired messy hair of Kurt Cobain to the polished boy-band looks of Justin Timberlake and Nick Carter, men’s hair in the 90s was all about personality. Whether you were into hip-hop, punk, or preppy styles, there was a 90s hairstyle for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore 22 iconic 90s hairstyles for guys that you can still rock today with a modern twist.
Classic Middle Part “Curtains” Hairstyle
One of the most famous 90s guy hairstyles, the curtain cut featured longer hair parted down the middle. Leonardo DiCaprio and Devon Sawa made this look a heartthrob classic.
Spiky Gelled Hair
Spiky hair with loads of gel was a staple for guys in the 90s. Frosted tips added an extra edge, especially popular among boy band members like NSYNC and Backstreet Boys.
Grunge Messy Hair
Inspired by Kurt Cobain, grunge hair was long, tousled, and unkempt. This effortless look became a symbol of 90s alternative rock culture.
Flat Top Fade
The flat top was a signature 90s hairstyle for Black men, especially in hip-hop and basketball culture. Will Smith and Kid ’n Play popularized this clean, structured style.
Buzz Cut
Simple and low-maintenance, the buzz cut became a go-to 90s look for athletes and military-inspired fashion.
Cornrows
Cornrows were widely worn by rappers like Allen Iverson and Snoop Dogg in the 90s, making them a strong cultural statement.
Bowl Cut
The quirky bowl cut was everywhere in the 90s, especially among kids and teens. It became iconic thanks to boy bands and sitcom stars.
Caesar Cut
Named after Julius Caesar, this short fringe-forward haircut was sleek and easy to maintain. George Clooney popularized it during his ER days.
Long Hair with Center Part
Rock and metal fans embraced longer locks, often worn straight with a clean middle part.
Bleached Blonde Hair
Bleached blonde tips or fully dyed blonde hair were big in the 90s, worn by stars like Eminem and Justin Timberlake.
High Top Fade with Designs
A modern twist on the flat top, some 90s fades included shaved lines or patterns for an extra statement.
FAQs About 90s Hairstyles for Guys
What was the most popular men’s hairstyle in the 90s?
The middle-part curtains hairstyle, spiky gel hair, and flat top fade were among the most popular 90s looks for guys.
Which celebrities influenced 90s guys’ hairstyles?
Leonardo DiCaprio, Kurt Cobain, Will Smith, Brad Pitt, Justin Timberlake, and Tupac Shakur set many of the trends.
Are 90s hairstyles for guys still trending today?
Yes! Curtains, buzz cuts, and fades have all made a comeback, often with a modern twist.
What products did guys use in the 90s for hair?
Strong-hold gels, mousse, and hairspray were the go-to products for spikes, slick-backs, and wet looks.
Can I modernize a 90s hairstyle?
Yes — update spiky or curtain hairstyles with textured cuts, matte products, or fades for a fresh 2020s upgrade.
Conclusion
The 90s hairstyles for guys captured everything from rebellious grunge vibes to polished boy-band looks. Whether you want the timeless buzz cut, bold flat top, or nostalgic curtains, these styles prove that the 90s left a lasting mark on men’s fashion. Today, they’re making a comeback with new twists, blending nostalgia with modern trends.
