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From fashion to beauty, '90s references are everywhere these days. And perhaps nowhere is that more evident than in how celebrities and influencers — followed by the rest of us — are cutting and styling their hair. Some of the popular throwbacks? "Messy bangs, pixie cuts, and layered hair," says Nick Stenson, artistic director of Matrix Hair Care. To get a closer look at '90s hairstyles that are both timeless and modern, we tapped Stenson and rounded up 16 of our favorite looks inspired by the decade.
Keep scrolling for the best '90s hairstyles to try, stat.
Braided Top Knot
Nothing screams '90s girl group like long braids and a trendy top knot. Take some tips from Gabrielle Union and leave a few pieces out to frame your face for a visually effortless look.
Wixie Cut
Demi Lovato's wixie is the epitome of '90s-style grunge. Featuring side-swept micro bangs and wispy ends, it's the perfect cross between a pixie and a shag.
Modern Layers
The bob-and-bangs combo will never go out of style — just look at Billie Eilish as proof. Her platinum blonde layered bob is what Stenson calls "an awesome modernized version of '90s layers." To execute their look, he recommends using the Matrix High Amplify Foam Volumizer ($22; ulta.com).
Butterfly Embellishments
Remember butterfly clips? This must-have '90s accessory would accent your hairstyle du jour with a note of play and whimsy. And we're not just referring to the cute, colorful mini clips. Butterfly appliques, like Lisa Bonet's, could also be glamorous and glitzy. Perhaps that's why they are being fully embraced by celebrities on the red carpet.
"The Rachel"
Even if you didn't watch Friends, chances are you knew about "The Rachel." Featuring face-framing, angled layers, and lots of body, it was one of the defining hairstyles of the '90s that is seeing some modern spinoffs today. See: Mariah Carey and Chrissy Teigen.
Crimped Hair
Brands like Drybar and Bed Head have launched modern versions of the crimping iron, so seeing Christina Aguilera's look on your walk to work might actually become a reality. Well, maybe minus the hot pink extensions.
Flower Accessories
The daisy is the ultimate '90s flower, so obviously all your favorite celebrities stuck it in their hair. Drew Barrymore was a huge proponent of the trend, wearing the flower on either side of her blonde bob. Festival goers continue to wear the look trend today.
Tousled Curls
Before the perm became more of a permanent beachy wave treatment, it was known for giving customers Mariah Carey-level curls with a cool, undone finish. If you've got curls or waves, put the hot tools down and consider embracing your natural texture.
High Pigtails
One thing we want just as much as a year-long Spice Girls reunion tour? Baby Spice's high pigtails to regain their popularity. With space buns having made a comeback, we're already halfway there.
Pixie Cut
The pixie — and versions of it — dominated the '90s and are still fashionable today. Despite popular belief, anyone can wear this cut. Just be sure to consider your face shape to find the style that complements you best. Ruby Rose's volumized tousled iteration is a crowd-pleaser.
Bouncy Blowouts
Before the Internet freaked out over Kate Middleton's blowouts, the world was in awe of Cindy Crawford's ultra-shiny, bouncy head of hair, the 2.0 version of which, is here and thriving.
Voluminous Updos
No '90s prom was complete without voluminous updos that featured short strands and tendrils purposefully left out around the face. Today, some are even taking inspiration in the look for their wedding day hair.
Headbands
Sorry, Blair Waldorf, Britney Spears was the headband queen before anyone even knew what Gossip Girl was. The '90s take on this classic was a super-thin or zigzagged band placed in permed or blown-out hair.
Hair Jewels
Gemstones didn't just line jeans' back pockets in the '90s — these sparklers were the finishing touch for any hairstyle that needed a little extra something. Today, they are seeing a revival among TikTokers and their followers.
Choppy Bob
Layered bobs, like the one from Meg Ryan's You've Got Mail days, are incredibly versatile and stylish. Remember that this cut removes hair's weight and lends movement, making it ideal for those with medium to thick strands.
Messy Updo
Popularized in the '90s, the messy updo is a timeless hairstyle that lends a natural air of cool. In decades past it was usually accompanied by hair accessories galore, but today it can stand up all on its own.
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