Iconic 90s Curly Hairstyles

You know, I still remember sitting on my bedroom floor in the late ’90s, surrounded by scrunchies, butterfly clips, and that one trusty curling iron that always smelled a little burnt. The 90s curly hairstyles were everything back then — big, bouncy, and unapologetically fun. I’d spend hours trying to get those perfect spirals, only for them to frizz the second I stepped outside (humidity was not my friend). But honestly? There was something magical about that carefree, voluminous look — it made you feel bold, confident, and a little rebellious. If you’ve ever wished you could bring that effortless 90s vibe back, you’re in the right place. In this post, I’ll show you how to recreate those iconic curly hairstyles — from soft waves to tight ringlets — with a modern twist. So grab your favorite hair spray, and let’s bring those curls back to life!

90s Curly Hairstyles

The 90s were all about big, bouncy curls and fearless volume that made every look unforgettable. From wild perms to soft ringlets, these iconic curly hairstyles are back to bring that retro glam to modern days.

Perm Curls

Oh, the 90s perms—honestly, one of the most iconic hair moments ever. I remember when I first tried giving my model that big, bouncy perm look, I was half nervous, half thrilled. There’s something about those perfectly coiled curls that just screams confidence. Back then, everyone wanted volume—like, cloud-sized hair. I’ve found that the trick isn’t just the perm itself, but how you style it afterward. A light mousse and a good diffuser can make all the difference. It’s wild how a few curls can completely change someone’s vibe.
To be fair, perms aren’t for the faint-hearted—they demand commitment. But when done right, they’re magic. I still get clients asking for that “effortless 90s perm” look, even though it’s anything but effortless. What I love most is how those curls frame the face. They add life, bounce, and a touch of nostalgia every time someone walks in with that 90s energy.

Crimped Waves

Crimped hair was basically the rebellion of the 90s—and I adored it. The first time I crimped my model’s hair, she looked in the mirror and said, “Wow, I feel like I’m in a music video.” That’s exactly the vibe. It’s edgy, playful, and a little loud—but in the best way. I still use my old crimper sometimes just for that throwback fun. The texture it gives is like instant personality in your hair.
In my opinion, crimping works best when you don’t overdo it. I like mixing crimped sections with natural waves—it softens the look but still keeps that funky 90s feel. Add a touch of shine spray, and it’s like the hair is dancing under the light. Honestly, crimped waves will forever be my guilty pleasure style—every strand seems to tell its own story of freedom and fun.

Curly Updo

 

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Curly updos were such a red-carpet thing in the 90s, and I still can’t get enough of them. When I do one on a model, I always try to make it look like she just threw it up—effortless, but elegant. You know that slightly messy, soft curl framing the face? That’s the secret. I remember once creating a curly updo for a photoshoot, and everyone thought it was her natural curl pattern pinned up perfectly—it wasn’t. It just looked that good.
Honestly, this style never feels dated to me. Whether it’s a wedding, prom, or just a fancy night out, a curly updo brings that timeless 90s romance. I love teasing a few strands out, adding texture spray, and watching the curls come alive. It’s a bit chaotic at first, but that’s the fun part—it’s about letting the hair have its own personality while still looking put together.

Half-Up Half-Down Curls

This one’s a forever favorite of mine. Half-up half-down curls are the perfect blend of “I tried” and “I didn’t try too hard.” Every time I do it on a model, she instantly looks a little more flirty, a little more 90s popstar. The soft curls cascading down mixed with the pulled-up crown give it that girly charm. I’ve found it works beautifully on almost everyone—it’s just so forgiving and versatile.
To be fair, I love adding little details like butterfly clips or scrunchies for that true nostalgic punch. It’s funny how accessories can totally shift the vibe from sweet to bold. Sometimes I even twist small sections before pinning them—it adds that lived-in feel. This hairstyle never fails to make my models smile, and honestly, that’s why I keep coming back to it. It’s effortless glam at its best.

Messy Curly Ponytail

 

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The messy curly ponytail is one of those 90s styles that looks casual but secretly takes some effort. I remember styling it for a summer shoot once, and the model laughed because we spent 20 minutes trying to make it look “perfectly imperfect.” That’s the art of it—controlled chaos. A few bobby pins, a tug here, a tousle there, and suddenly it looks like you just threw your hair up after dancing all night.
Honestly, I think that’s what makes this style so fun. It doesn’t take itself too seriously. I like pulling out small curls around the face to soften the look. A little hairspray helps keep it playful but not messy in the wrong way. Every time I do this hairstyle, it feels like the 90s all over again—carefree, confident, and full of energy.

Curly Bangs

Curly bangs were such a daring move back then, and I absolutely love when someone’s brave enough to go for them today. The first time I cut curly bangs on my model, she gasped and said, “Okay… I actually love this!” There’s something so cool about the way curls fall unpredictably across the forehead—it’s spontaneous and charming. I always say, embrace the bounce, don’t fight it.
In my opinion, curly bangs frame the face like no other. They add personality instantly, even when the rest of the hair is in a simple style. I love pairing them with big curls or soft waves for that perfect retro revival. Sure, they require a little maintenance, but honestly, the payoff is worth it. Every time I see curly bangs catching the light, I’m reminded of why this 90s trend deserves its comeback.

Corkscrew Curls

 

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Ah, corkscrew curls—the tighter, the better! I’ve done these for countless shoots, and they never fail to steal the show. There’s something almost playful about them, like every curl has its own mood. When I use a small curling wand or rods to create that perfect spiral, it’s like watching the 90s unfold in real time. My models always end up shaking their heads just to feel the bounce.
Honestly, these curls have such drama in the best way. I love finishing them with a lightweight oil so they look shiny but not stiff. They’re bold, confident, and full of character—exactly what 90s hair was all about. In my opinion, corkscrew curls are for anyone who wants to make an entrance. No matter how many times I recreate them, they still make me smile like the first time I saw them.

Curly Bob

The curly bob is the hairstyle that proved short hair could still have major volume. I remember giving one of my models a 90s-inspired bob, and she couldn’t stop touching her hair—it had that perfect bounce. The beauty of it lies in its shape: soft, full, and fun. It’s got that effortless vibe but with just the right amount of attitude.
I’ve found that using a diffuser and scrunching with mousse gives it the best life. You don’t want to over-style it; the charm is in its natural movement. Sometimes, I’ll tuck one side behind the ear just to let those curls show off a bit more. Honestly, this look never gets old. It’s playful, bold, and screams “main character” energy every single time I see it done right.

Scrunch & Go Curls

Now this one takes me straight back to lazy 90s mornings—scrunch, spray, and go. I swear, this was every girl’s dream routine. I love recreating it on my models because it feels so spontaneous. You just work some mousse into damp hair, scrunch like crazy, and let the curls do their thing. I’ve found air-drying gives it the most authentic texture—messy but somehow perfect.
To be fair, it’s the easiest way to get that carefree 90s vibe without a ton of effort. Sometimes I’ll tell my clients, “Just trust the frizz a little.” That’s what makes it look real. It’s not about control; it’s about letting the hair breathe. Every time I finish this look, I feel like I’m capturing a snapshot of pure nostalgia—effortless, undone, and perfectly imperfect.

Voluminous Layered Curls

 

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If there’s one look that defines the 90s for me, it’s the big, layered curls—seriously, the bigger, the better. I remember teasing my model’s hair during a shoot and the photographer yelled, “More volume!” It was the era of hair that could practically have its own personality. Those layers help the curls move freely, creating that full-bodied magic that turns heads.
Honestly, I adore how this look feels—soft yet bold. I usually finger-comb through the curls instead of brushing them to keep that airy texture. A touch of volumizing spray at the roots makes it unstoppable. In my opinion, this style is pure confidence in curl form. Every time I recreate it, I feel like I’m paying tribute to the best parts of the 90s—fun, fearless, and unapologetically big.

Maintenance & Hair Care Tips for Curls

Caring for 90s-inspired curls takes a little love and the right routine. Those beautiful curls need moisture, protection, and gentle handling to stay bouncy and defined. Here are some simple tips to keep your curls healthy and gorgeous every day:

• Keep curls hydrated and frizz-free. Use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner to lock in softness and shine.

• Avoid overwashing to maintain curl definition. Washing too often can strip natural oils and make curls dry or frizzy.

• Use silk pillowcases or scarves at night. This helps reduce friction and keeps curls smooth while you sleep.

• Refresh curls with a leave-in conditioner or mist. A quick spritz can bring back bounce and shape between washes.

• Protect curls from heat damage with protectant spray. Always use a heat protectant before styling with any hot tools.

FAQ

How can I recreate 90s curly hairstyles today?

You can use a curling iron, diffuser, or even foam rollers to get those voluminous 90s curls. Don’t forget to use a mousse or curl cream for that signature bounce.

Can people with straight hair try 90s curly looks?

Absolutely! Use a curling wand or perm treatment to achieve long-lasting curls and finish with a styling spray to hold them in place.

What hair products work best for 90s-style curls?

Lightweight mousse, curl-enhancing cream, and anti-frizz serum are perfect for achieving soft yet defined curls.

How do I keep my curls from getting frizzy?

Avoid brushing dry curls and keep them hydrated with a leave-in conditioner or curl mist. Also, sleep on a silk pillowcase to reduce frizz.