21 Iconic 90s Hairstyles for Women That Are Making a Comeback
The 1990s were a defining decade for women’s hairstyles, blending playful experimentation with timeless elegance. From butterfly clips and crimped strands to sleek blowouts and layered bobs, the 90s gave us some of the most unforgettable hair moments. Influenced by supermodels, pop stars, and Hollywood icons, these styles carried personality, attitude, and a sense of fun that still inspires hairstylists today.
What made the 90s hairstyles for women so unique was their versatility — you could go bold with bright scrunchies and crimped hair or keep it chic with a Rachel-inspired layered cut. Many of these looks are trending again, proving the decade’s influence is far from over.
Here are 25 stylish 90s women’s hairstyles that defined the era and continue to inspire modern fashion.
The Rachel Haircut
Jennifer Aniston’s iconic cut from Friends became the most requested hairstyle of the 90s. With its layered, face-framing shape and voluminous blowout, it flattered nearly every face shape. Women loved it because it was chic, versatile, and worked for both casual and formal settings. Even today, modernized versions of “The Rachel” are still seen in salons.
Butterfly Clips Style
Butterfly clips were the ultimate 90s hair accessory. They added a fun, girly touch to half-up styles, braids, and twisted sections. Celebrities and teens alike wore them in bright, colorful patterns, often stacking multiple clips in one hairstyle. Today, they’ve made a huge comeback, often used for Y2K-inspired looks.
Crimped Hair
Crimping irons turned straight strands into zigzag waves that screamed 90s cool. This textured style was perfect for parties, concerts, or just adding flair to everyday looks. Stars like Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears wore crimped hair on stage and red carpets. Modern versions use looser crimping for a softer effect.
High Ponytail with Scrunchie
The scrunchie was more than just a hair tie it was a fashion statement. High ponytails tied with colorful scrunchies were playful, sporty, and stylish. Celebs like Madonna and Sporty Spice rocked this look, making it a symbol of girl power. Today, scrunchies in velvet, satin, and oversized designs bring back that 90s nostalgia.
Space Buns
Double buns, also called space buns, were bold, youthful, and fun. They were often worn with glitter makeup or paired with mini braids for extra flair. This style became a rave and festival favorite in the late 90s. Now, space buns are trending again on TikTok and Instagram as a playful hairstyle option.
Box Braids
Box braids were a protective style embraced by icons like Janet Jackson in Poetic Justice. They were versatile, allowing women to style them in ponytails, buns, or simply long and flowing. In the 90s, this look symbolized cultural pride and fashion-forward confidence. Today, box braids remain a timeless protective hairstyle.
Half-Up Half-Down with Clips
The half-up half-down style was everywhere in the 90s, especially with mini butterfly clips holding twisted strands. It was both casual and cute, making it perfect for school or casual outings. Celebrities like Sarah Michelle Gellar helped popularize it. Now, it’s back as a go-to hairstyle for Y2K-inspired looks.
Zigzag Parting
Forget the straight middle part the zigzag part was a bold 90s trend. Using a comb to create sharp, zigzagged lines, women gave their hairstyles an instant edgy vibe. Often paired with pigtails or ponytails, it stood out as playful yet trendy. Today, it’s making a subtle comeback in festival and retro-inspired styles.
Layered Bob
The bob haircut was reinvented in the 90s with layers and texture. It could be sleek and polished or messy and tousled, depending on the vibe. Stars like Drew Barrymore often wore short, choppy bobs that became an instant trend. This versatile haircut continues to evolve while keeping its 90s roots.
Pigtails with Accessories
Pigtails weren’t just for kids in the 90s they became a cool and playful teen style. With butterfly clips, scrunchies, or colorful elastics, pigtails could be made edgy or sweet. They were often paired with bold makeup and trendy outfits. Today, celebrities are reintroducing pigtails in high-fashion looks.
Long Sleek Hair
Sleek, straight hair with a glossy shine was another 90s favorite. Supermodels like Naomi Campbell and actresses like Jennifer Love Hewitt often rocked this look. It required flat irons and serums to achieve that mirror-like shine. The sleek hair trend is still popular today for its elegance and simplicity.
French Twist and Roll
Elegant and sophisticated, the French twist was a go-to updo for formal events. Paired with pearls or delicate clips, it became an evening hairstyle staple. Women loved it because it looked polished without being overly complicated. Modern versions are looser and more romantic but still inspired by the 90s classic.
FAQs About 90s Hairstyles for Women
What were the most popular 90s hairstyles for women?
The Rachel cut, butterfly clips, crimped hair, space buns, and high ponytails with scrunchies were some of the most iconic looks.
Are 90s hairstyles making a comeback?
Yes, many 90s hairstyles like claw clips, chunky highlights, and space buns are trending again in 2025.
Which 90s hairstyles are easiest to recreate today?
Half-up styles with clips, messy buns, and claw clip twists are simple and low-maintenance.
Did accessories play a big role in 90s hairstyles?
Absolutely! Scrunchies, butterfly clips, headbands, and bandanas were key to completing the look.
Can 90s hairstyles work for all hair types?
Yes, from sleek blowouts to box braids and spiral curls, 90s hairstyles offered something for every texture and length.
Conclusion
The 90s hairstyles for women were fun, creative, and full of personality. Whether you loved the polished Rachel cut, the playful butterfly clips, or the bold crimped waves, there was a style for everyone. With many of these looks trending again today, the 90s remain one of the most influential decades for hair and fashion
