When it comes to beauty, no era is better than the ’90s. The hair, the makeup, the nails…everything was executed to perfection, and nothing was ever too much. These days we’ve adopted a much more pared-back aesthetic, but this summer I’m ready to throw caution to the wind and give my favourite ’90s hairstyles a go. If there’s one hairstyle that this era did better than any other, it’s an updo.
(Image credit: Getty Images Ron Galella / Contributor)
All of our favourite ’90s stars from Cameron Diaz to Jennifer Anniston and Halle Berry could be seen rocking some seriously cool updos back in the day, and much like many ’90s fashion trends, these hairstyles are having a serious revival. From this season’s runways to celebrity red carpets, I’ve been seeing everyone opt for these chic, old-Hollywood inspired looks. Below, I’ve rounded up some of my favourite ’90s updos that I am desperate to recreate this spring, along with some tips and tricks on how to get the look. Just keep on scrolling…
1. ’90s Tendrils
(Image credit: Getty Images Jim Spellman / Contributor)
First up is ’90s tendrils. Jennifer Aniston could often be seen sporting this chic updo back in the day, and the elegant style has remained a classic over the years. Simply secure your hair into a bun and then using your fingers or a comb, pull out one or two strands to fall loosely around your face. The trick is to make this look as effortless and natural as possible.
Get the look:
Ghd Hair
Mini Hair Straightener
This mini hair straightener is great for styling those face-framing pieces.
2. Chignon Bun
(Image credit: Getty Images Bob Riha Jr / Contributor)
If you want something really elegant, you can’t go wrong with a chignon bun. J-Lo looked so chic with this hairstyle back in the ’90s, and it’s perfect for any special occasions you may have this summer. To keep that classic chignon style, you want to secure your bun slightly lower than your usual top knot. Start with a low ponytail and then wrap the hair round before securing in place with a hair tie or pin.
Get the look:
A pomade will help to keep your bun in place.
3. Wispy Fringe
(Image credit: Getty Images Ron Galella / Contributor)
Fringes are back this year, and they look great with an updo. Halle Berry sported this style back in the ’90s, and I just know everyone will be recreating this look come spring and summer. To get that wispy finish, try using some small rollers in your fringe and setting in place with some texture spray.
Get the look:
Hair by Sam McKnight
Easy Up-Do Texture Spray
As the name suggests, this texture spray is perfect for updos.
4. Loose Curls
(Image credit: Getty Images Evan Agostini / Contributor)
How stunning is Gwyneth’s curly updo from back in the ’90s? I am desperate to recreate this look, especially when I figured out how easy it was. Simply throw your hair up into a messy bun and pull out some longer strands to style. A small curling tong will help achieve these loose waves.
Get the look:
Get effortless waves in no time with the Hershesons Wavemaker.
5. Low Bun
(Image credit: Getty Images Mitchell Gerber / Contributor)
Similar to a chignon, the ’90s was all about low-maintenance, low bun hairstyles. Not only do these styles look super chic, but they are a lot easier to achieve and don’t feel as tight to wear compared to a slicked-back top knot.
Get the look:
Silke London
Frida Hair Ties
I love using a silk scrunchie to secure my bun in place as it’s a lot kinder to the hair.
6. Side Fringe
(Image credit: Getty Images Jeff Kravitz / Contributor)
If you haven’t heard, the side part is back with a vengeance, and it looks great with an updo. Alicia Silverstone’s curly bun hairstyle looks so cool with her sharp side fringe and it’s definitely giving Y2K, cool-girl vibes.
Get the look:
Ghd Hair
The Sectioner Tail Comb
This comb is great for sectioning your side part and getting that sharp finish.
7. High Pony
(Image credit: Getty Images Debra L Rothenberg / Contributor)
Is there anything more ’90s than a high ponytail and a big scrunchie? I’m a big fan of this updo, and if this year’s runways were anything to go by, ponytails are back in a big way this season.
Get the look:
Anthropologie
Oversized Hair Scrunchie
Add this scrunchie to your ponytail for the ultimate ’90s feel.
8. Voluminous Top Knot
(Image credit: Getty Images Ron Galella, Ltd. / Contributor)
When it comes to ’90s updos, the more volume the better. Janet Jackson’s voluminous, effortlessly undone bun looks incredible with her wispy fringe, and I’m taking this photo straight to my hairdresser.
Get the look:
Amika
Plus Size Volume & Body Mousse
Apply this mousse from the roots to the ends of your hair for some serious volume.
9. Curly Tendrils
(Image credit: Getty Images Rose Hartman / Contributor)
Cindy Crawford is always my inspo when it comes to ’90s hair, and this look is no exception. Her tight curls perfectly frame her face and help give her updo a more relaxed feel.
Get the look:
Briogeo
Curl Charisma™ Rice Amino + Avocado Leave-In Defining Crème
If you have naturally curly hair, help define your style with this leave-in cream.
10. Braided Bun
(Image credit: Getty Images Vinnie Zuffante / Stringer)
Brandy always had the coolest braids in the ’90s, and I am obsessed with her chic braided bun. The trick here is not to part your hair in the middle, but instead gather it all into a bun for voluminous-looking roots.
Get the look:
Pattern
Argan Oil Blend Serum
Keep your braided bun feeling fresh with this hydrating serum. It will also help to add a little bit of shine too.