15 Retro 90s Blowout Hairstyles
The 90s were a time of bold choices and unforgettable trends, and blowout hairstyles were the crown jewels of that era. These voluminous, bouncy looks screamed confidence, sass, and a little bit of “I woke up like this” magic. Let’s dive into some iconic 90s blowout styles that are making a fierce comeback today, and how you can rock them like a pro.
The Classic Rachel
Named after Jennifer Aniston’s character on Friends, this hairstyle was the epitome of 90s chic. With its layered ends and flippy texture, the Rachel brought effortless glamour to everyday hair.
How to achieve it:
- Start with a medium-length haircut with face-framing layers.
- Use a round brush while blow-drying, focusing on curling the ends outward.
- Finish with a lightweight mousse for hold and a touch of shine.
Pro Tip: The Rachel works best on straight or slightly wavy hair. Pair it with a fitted turtleneck for the ultimate nostalgic vibe.
The Supermodel Blowout
Think Cindy Crawford walking down the runway—this style was all about high-volume, polished waves that turned heads. The secret? Layers and lots of texture.
How to achieve it:
- Apply a volumizing mousse to damp hair and blow-dry using a large round brush.
- Use velcro rollers or a curling iron to create big, soft waves.
- Finish with a spritz of flexible-hold hairspray.
Personal Anecdote: I tried this once before a big event and felt like I was walking straight out of a magazine cover. Pro tip: practice flipping your hair dramatically—it’s half the fun!
The Feathered Flip
The feathered flip was all about framing the face while keeping the rest of the hair sleek. It was particularly popular among 90s TV moms, but trust me, it’s cooler than you think.
How to achieve it:
- Cut layers that start around the cheekbones.
- Blow-dry using a round brush, flipping the ends outward for that feathered effect.
- Use a lightweight serum to keep the look sleek and frizz-free.
Why it works: This style softens sharp features and adds a retro flair to any outfit.
The Half-Up Blowout
This was the go-to style for 90s teens—think Britney Spears or Mandy Moore. It’s playful, youthful, and super easy to recreate.
How to achieve it:
- Blow-dry your hair with a round brush for volume.
- Section off the top half of your hair and secure it with a scrunchie or claw clip.
- Let the loose ends cascade in bouncy waves.
Fun Fact: Scrunchies are back in style, so this look hits two trends in one.
The Curtain Bangs Blowout
Curtain bangs were a quintessential 90s accessory, pairing perfectly with voluminous blowouts. This style highlights the cheekbones and adds a touch of mystery.
How to achieve it:
- Trim your bangs so they hit just below the eyebrows and angle slightly outward.
- Blow-dry them with a small round brush, parting them in the middle.
- Style the rest of your hair in soft waves or pin-straight strands.
Did You Know? According to Google Trends, searches for curtain bangs have surged by over 600% in recent years, proving their staying power.
The Crimped Blowout Combo
Crimping wasn’t just a phase—it was a full-blown movement. Combine it with a blowout for a quirky, textured look.
How to achieve it:
- Blow-dry your hair for volume.
- Use a crimping iron on random sections to add texture.
- Brush lightly to blend the crimped pieces with the blowout.
Pro Tip: Keep it subtle. Over-crimping can veer into costume territory.
The High Pony Blowout
High ponies were sporty yet chic in the 90s, especially when paired with voluminous blowouts. This look screams energy and confidence.
How to achieve it:
- Blow-dry your hair for maximum volume.
- Gather your hair into a high ponytail, leaving a few strands loose for a casual vibe.
- Wrap a small section of hair around the ponytail base to hide the elastic.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s perfect for workouts, brunch, or just dominating life in general.
The Fluffy Layers
Fluffy layers were a 90s staple for creating movement and volume. This style is making a comeback with a modern twist.
How to achieve it:
- Ask your stylist for lots of layers, starting at the chin.
- Blow-dry each layer with a round brush, focusing on adding lift at the roots.
- Use a texture spray for a tousled, lived-in finish.
Fun Fact: This style pairs well with oversized sunglasses and denim jackets—true 90s essentials.
The Voluminous Pixie
Short hair didn’t mean sacrificing volume in the 90s. The pixie cut was bold, chic, and packed with personality.
How to achieve it:
- Use a volumizing mousse on damp hair before blow-drying.
- Finger-style your hair to create lift and texture.
- Add a small amount of pomade to define layers.
Pro Tip: Keep your makeup bold to complement the edgy vibe of this style.
The Sleek Blowout with Middle Part
The middle part was a hallmark of 90s minimalism, often paired with a sleek, polished blowout.
How to achieve it:
- Blow-dry your hair straight, using a paddle brush for smoothness.
- Part your hair perfectly down the middle.
- Finish with a shine serum for a glossy finish.
Why It Works: This style elongates the face and pairs well with both casual and formal looks.
The Retro Waves
These waves were soft, romantic, and oh-so-90s. Think Drew Barrymore in her prime.
How to achieve it:
- Use a medium-barrel curling iron to create loose waves.
- Brush through the curls for a softer look.
- Set with a light-hold hairspray.
Personal Tip: Pair this style with a choker necklace for maximum retro impact.
The Messy Blowout
The 90s weren’t always about perfection. The messy blowout embraced imperfections for an effortlessly cool vibe.
How to achieve it:
- Apply a texturizing spray to damp hair and blow-dry roughly with your fingers.
- Use a curling wand on random sections for added texture.
- Scrunch your hair with your hands to finish.
Why It’s Awesome: This style is low-maintenance and perfect for busy mornings.
The Headband Blowout
Headbands were a must-have accessory in the 90s, and they pair beautifully with blowouts for a preppy, polished look.
How to achieve it:
- Blow-dry your hair for volume and smoothness.
- Place a thick headband just behind your hairline.
- Let the ends flow freely in soft waves.
Pro Tip: Choose a velvet or satin headband for an authentic 90s feel.
The Beachy Blowout
Inspired by 90s beach culture, this look was all about relaxed, sun-kissed waves.
How to achieve it:
- Use a sea salt spray on damp hair before blow-drying.
- Twist sections of hair while drying to create loose, beachy waves.
- Finish with a light mist of texturizing spray.
Why You’ll Love It: It’s perfect for summer and gives off major Baywatch vibes.
The Frosted Tips Blowout
Frosted tips weren’t just for boy bands—they added a fun pop of color to any blowout.
How to achieve it:
- Highlight the ends of your hair with a subtle frosty hue.
- Style your hair in a voluminous blowout to showcase the color.
- Use a strong-hold hairspray to keep everything in place.
Fun Fact: Frosted tips are making a mini-comeback, especially among Gen Z trendsetters.
These 15 retro 90s blowout hairstyles prove that what’s old is new again. By combining modern techniques with nostalgic flair, you can rock these iconic looks with confidence. So go ahead—channel your inner 90s diva and let your hair do the talking!
