butterfly cut shoulder length hair

THROWBACK STYLES: 17+ MUST-TRY 90S HAIRSTYLES FOR WOMEN

Our gallery of 90s hairstyles for women features iconic looks, from Rachel’s unforgettable cut in Friends and Janet Jackson’s stunning braids to Mariah Carey’s fabulous curls. Best of all, we showcase how these classic styles are being reimagined and styled today!

The Rachel

Is there really any need for an explanation? Didn’t think so!

90’s Voluminous Blowout

Cindy Crawford perfectly embodied the essence of hair that radiates volume and glamour. With her stunning locks, she set the standard for luxurious hairstyles that captivated audiences everywhere. Her ability to combine volume with a glamorous finish made her a true style icon, inspiring countless women to embrace their own luscious, eye-catching hair.

Hair in an Updo

This hairstyle involves pulling the hair back tightly and securing it at the crown of the head, resulting in a sleek and polished appearance. This elegant style not only showcases the face beautifully but also exudes sophistication and confidence. The tightness of the pull ensures that the hair remains in place, allowing for a refined look that highlights the wearer’s features and adds a touch of glamour to any outfit.

Teeny Double Dutch Pigtails

This effortless hairstyle is a total ’90s throwback. Britney Spears styled her short hair into two messy plaits, secured with elastics, leaving just a hint of hair peeking out at the ends for a fun and playful look.

The Rachel Haircut

The shoulder-length hairstyle, featuring face-framing layers and choppy ends, was expertly crafted by hairstylist Chris McMillan. This iconic look gained immense popularity through its association with Friends, becoming a highly sought-after style that many women desired. Its effortless yet chic appearance perfectly complemented various face shapes, making it a go-to choice for those looking to achieve a modern and versatile look.

Thick Braids

The influence of the film Poetic Justice extended far beyond the silver screen, leaving a lasting impact on cultural trends and hairstyles. In the 90s, braids emerged as a powerful symbol of empowerment and self-expression, particularly for Black women. Braids became more than just a fashion statement; they represented cultural identity, resilience, and individuality, allowing women to express their unique personalities and heritage.

Butterfly Clips

Stefani was never shy about experimenting with her hair. In this look, she embraces a trend that nearly every ’90s girl rocked: the iconic butterfly clip. It was truly a defining accessory of the era!

Shoulder Length Curls

No one, and I repeat, no one, rocked shoulder-length curls quite like J-Lo. Her stunning curls, known for their ability to add incredible volume and dimension, quickly became a beloved style among women in the 90s. J-Lo’s signature look not only highlighted her features but also captured the essence of glamour. Her curls continue to inspire and influence hairstyles today, proving that true style is timeless.

Bumped Bob

The soft curls enhance this classic bob, giving the hairstyle a captivating twist. Seen on the angelic Angelina Jolie, this updated version of the bob would certainly turn heads if it graced the streets today.

Short Pixie with Short Fringe

This hairstyle is reminiscent of the traditional pixie cut but features a shorter fringe, drawing even more attention to the overall profile. The shorter bangs frame the face beautifully, accentuating the eyes and cheekbones while adding a playful touch to the classic look. It’s a striking choice for those who want to make a bold statement, offering a fresh and modern twist that keeps all eyes on the wearer.

The Hilary Banks

Everything about The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air embodies ’90s culture, but nothing quite matches Hilary Banks’s perfectly coiled hairstyle. She often accessorized it with a statement hat or an oversized bow, adding a chic touch to her ensembles.

Hair with Bandana

Bandanas were a staple accessory in 90s fashion, playing a pivotal role in defining the era’s edgy and rebellious style. Often worn in a multitude of ways—tied around the head, neck, or wrist—they added a distinctive touch of casual cool to any outfit. Whether paired with denim, oversized jackets, or casual tees, bandanas served as a bold statement piece, embodying the spirit of the 90s and contributing to the decade’s iconic aesthetic.

Feathered Fringes

There was a time when nearly every TV character showcased voluminous, feathered fringes. From D.J. Tanner to Kelly Bundy, and, of course, Tiffani Thiessen as Kelly Kapowski on Saved by the Bell, these bangs epitomized the cool girl vibe

Short Pixie Cut with Fringe

The allure of the short pixie cut lies in its remarkable ability to frame the face beautifully, accentuating features while exuding a chic and modern vibe. This hairstyle is not only stylish but also offers a low-maintenance option for those seeking a short haircut. Its versatility allows for a range of looks, making it an ideal choice for anyone wanting to make a bold statement with minimal effort.

Designer Blonde Wigs

The 90s marked the rise of wig-wearing as a popular trend, with many celebrities embracing this transformative accessory to change their appearance for performances, red carpet events, and media appearances. Wigs allowed for effortless style experimentation, enabling stars to switch up their looks instantly. The influence of this practice continues today, as wigs remain a favored tool for self-expression and reinvention in the world of fashion and entertainment.

Hair Jewellery Clips

Hair jewelry has become a standout accessory, accentuating a diverse array of hairstyles that embody the exaggerated aesthetic of the 90s. From colorful clips and glittering pins to beaded braids and statement headbands, these embellishments add a playful and eye-catching element to various looks. Whether worn in elaborate updos or cascading waves, hair jewelry perfectly captures the spirit of the 90s, celebrating individuality and the joy of accessorizing in a fun, memorable way.

Tiny Twists

The only thing that could make this style more ’90s is a mini clip adorning the end of these tiny twists. This half-rolled hairstyle, affectionately referred to as “picture-day hair” by elementary school kids, dominated the decade. With its playful charm and effortless vibe, it perfectly captured the essence of 90s fashion. This hairstyle was a go-to choice for many, embodying the carefree spirit of youth and the iconic trends that defined an unforgettable era in style.

conclusion

In conclusion, the 90s were a vibrant decade for hairstyling and fashion, marked by bold choices and iconic trends that continue to influence styles today. Accessories like bandanas and hair jewelry played a significant role in enhancing these looks, adding a touch of edge and personality to outfits. The rise of wig-wearing among celebrities further exemplified the era’s spirit of experimentation and transformation. Overall, the 90s left an indelible mark on beauty and fashion, celebrating individuality and self-expression in ways that resonate with many today.

21 ADORABLE LOW-MAINTENANCE PROTECTIVE HAIRSTYLES FOR FALL

Every Black girl knows the joy of a great protective hairstyle. Not only do they shield your hair from damage, but they also let you look fabulous while doing it! Choosing the right protective style is a big deal because you’ll likely wear it for a couple of months. So, finding a style that’s both stunning and practical is essential.

This post highlights some fantastic protective hairstyle ideas for fall that are light, low-maintenance, and easy to handle. When the weather gets cold, you don’t want a style that requires too much fuss, which is why I’m a huge fan of protective styles for the season!

CHUNKY BUTTERFLY LOCS

Butterfly twists really have been gaining popularity! It’s great how styles can grow on you—sometimes it just takes a bit of time to appreciate their unique charm. They’re definitely a fresh and fun option for protecting your hair while staying stylish. Have you tried them out yourself, or are you still contemplating?

STITCH TRIBAL BRAIDS

Absolutely, cornrows and stitch braids are both such powerful styles! And that’s a great tip about protecting those baby hairs—keeping your edges intact is crucial for long-term hair health. Do you have a favorite way to style your cornrows or stitch braids?

CORNROWS WITH A FAUX PONY

Braiding cornrows into a faux ponytail offers the perfect blend of intricate detail and voluminous style. If you’re ready to play with color, you can weave it into the cornrows or add a vibrant ponytail for a chic color-block effect. Either way, you’re sure to turn heads!

PASSION TWIST

Passion twists definitely add a fresh and vibrant twist to traditional styles! They have that perfect blend of texture and movement that makes them stand out. Have you tried them out or are you planning to?

FAUX FISHTAIL BRAID

Not all faux ponytails are the same, and Tracee Ellis Ross took it to the next level with this stunning fishtail braid, adding both length and texture. For an ultra-sleek, shiny look, use a hair pomade like Carol’s Daughter Mimosa Hair Honey. It’ll tame flyaways effortlessly and leave your hair looking radiant.

KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS

Knotless box braids are such a game-changer! They’re definitely a more comfortable and gentle option for your hair. Plus, they look great and can be styled in so many ways. Have you found any particular styles or variations of knotless braids that you love?

FULANI BRAIDS

Enhance the texture of your Fulani braids by styling them with defined baby hairs. With endless parting options—like overlapping braids or geometric patterns—the beauty of this protective style is that you can keep returning to it for a fresh, glowing look without ever feeling repetitive.

JUMBO BRAIDS

Jumbo braids are so popular because they let you spend less time in the salon and require less hair! Plus, they’re absolutely adorable and give off major summer vibes—or is that just me?

BOX BRAIDS

Box braids are a top pick for protective styles for a reason. Not only are they low-maintenance, but they’re also incredibly versatile and never dull. For added flair, try larger sections—this amps up the drama, reduces braiding time, and keeps upkeep simple.

CURLY CORNROWS

This layered cornrow style by celebrity stylist Susy Oludele and Aeon Elliott is anything but ordinary. The curl pattern adds a fun and elegant twist to the classic straight-back cornrows, while the red highlights give it a vibrant pop of color.

FAUX LOCS

“Another great way to put a cool spin on box braids or faux locs is combining textures and curl patterns with extension hair,” says Brown. If you’re looking to elevate your look, try incorporating different colors—don’t shy away from bold contrasts—for a modern twist on this classic protective style.

FULANI BRAIDS WITH BEADS

Solange elevated her Fulani braids by adding beads that nearly cover the entire length. Channel her iconic style by coordinating your accessories—like a statement mask—with your braids for a bold, futuristic vibe. “Shook” doesn’t even begin to describe it!

FINGER-WAVE CORNROWS

Koudou drew inspiration from Beyoncé’s Lion King red-carpet look to craft these striking finger waves. Typically ending at the nape, the added extension offers extra length and the versatility to drape over your shoulder or wrap into a low ponytail or bun. Versatility is always a win!

FLAT TWISTS

This style combines flat twists and Bantu knots, showcasing that there’s no single way to rock protective styles. It’s ideal for when you’re torn between styles. Choose twists laid to the side like these, or go for a straight-back approach.

PLAITED UPDO

Elevate your braids with this stunning updo, crafted by Koudou. Inspired by Yoruba royalty, this look not only leaves you in awe but also honors the ancestors who pioneered intricate, innovative patterns to care for their natural hair. It’s a true celebration of heritage and beauty.

WAVY BANTU KNOTS

These Bantu knots strike the perfect balance between playful and chic with their curved parts and chunky, braided knots. It’s a great reminder that changing up your parting can instantly reinvent a timeless classic.

LOCS WITH HIGHLIGHTS

“Color is such a great way to give your box braids or faux locs a fresh look,” says hairstylist Cristiana Cassell, Chloe Bailey’s warm, highlighted locs were created in collaboration with hairstylist Sparkle. The neutral tones are ideal for fall but can effortlessly transition into winter months.

LONG PONY

Not all protective styles need braids—sometimes the simplest options, like a low bun or a long ponytail, can be just as effective. Elaine Welteroth shows that adding a touch of volume can elevate these go-to looks, turning a standard ponytail into something extraordinary.

FLORAL BOX BRAIDS

Combine box braids into larger sections and add floral accents for an instant update to your protective style. This look is great for fall, but you can easily transition it to winter by swapping the florals for golden rings. The beauty of this style lies in its limitless versatility.

HAIR WRAP

“An overlooked protective style is wearing a scarf,” says Lindsey. “Pulling your hair back into a loose ponytail or plaiting your hair, then wrapping a scarf in a chic style, is definitely an easy protective style that can be worn all year round.” The best part is that you can effortlessly switch up your look by experimenting with different colors and patterns based on your mood.

BRAIDED HEADBAND

Yvonne Orji from Insecure adds a touch of regal elegance to protective braid styles by draping one braid across the forehead like a crown.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, cute low-maintenance protective hairstyles offer both style and practicality, making them perfect for busy days or just keeping your hair healthy and protected. From jumbo braids and versatile box braids to chic Bantu knots and sleek faux ponies, there’s a range of options to fit every mood and occasion. Experimenting with colors, patterns, and accessories can add a personalized touch, ensuring your look remains fresh and exciting.