Face-Framing Tendrils Updo
A nostalgic 90s style that has seen a massive resurgence, characterized by two intentionally loose strands of hair left out from an updo or ponytail to softly frame the face. This simple yet effective technique works beautifully with all hair types—wavy, straight, or curly—adding a delicate, effortlessly chic touch to any look. It highlights facial features and provides a romantic softness.
| Hair Type | All |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Everyday |
| Prep Time | 3 minutes |
| Styling Time | 10 minutes |
| Setting Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 13 minutes |
| Hair Length | Medium |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Popularity | 98/100 |
| Tags | updo-accentdelicateversatile |
Instructions
- 1
Decide on your main hairstyle (ponytail, bun, or half-up). Ensure hair is detangled and dry.
- 2
Identify the two strands that will frame your face. These should be thin sections, typically located just in front of or right at the ear.
- 3
Gently pull the rest of your hair back and secure it into your chosen updo or ponytail, ensuring the two face-framing strands are kept completely loose and separate.
- 4
Take the two loose tendrils. For a straight look, run a flat iron lightly down them. For a soft wave, use a large barrel curling iron to create a subtle bend away from the face.
- 5
Warm a pea-sized amount of smoothing serum between your palms and lightly run it down the length of the tendrils to add shine, define the texture, and prevent frizz.
- 6
Adjust the tendrils so they fall naturally and symmetrically on either side of your face. Finish the entire style with a light mist of hairspray if desired.
Styling Tips
Do not leave out too much hair; the key to this trend is thin, subtle tendrils—no thicker than a pencil.
For a more dramatic 90s look, you can slightly crimp the tendrils or apply a pop of color via temporary hair chalk.
If your hair is very fine, curl the tendrils toward your face slightly to give them more body and ensure they hold their shape.
More 90s Hairstyles For Women
Hilary Banks Hat-Ready Hairstyle
Inspired by Karyn Parsons’ iconic character Hilary Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, this look focuses on styling medium to long hair with polished volume and bounce, specifically to be paired with a statement hat. The key is smooth, controlled hair that maintains lift at the roots so that it does not fall flat under headwear. This style embodies 90s polished glamour and works well with straightened or smooth hair.
Sarah Jessica Wild Natural Curls
The signature, highly voluminous, and often wild curl pattern popularized by Sarah Jessica Parker in her iconic role as Carrie Bradshaw in the late 1990s. This look celebrates natural hair texture, emphasizing high volume, length, and defined spirals. It stands as a pinnacle of 90s natural hair trends, favoring bounce and movement over sleek perfection. This style works best on medium to long naturally curly or coily hair.
Michelle Williams Emmy 1999
Sporting a chic, youthful style during her Dawson’s Creek days, Michelle Williams’ 1999 Emmy hairstyle featured sleek, shoulder-length hair with subtle layers. The look balanced polished sophistication with effortless teen charm, perfectly framing her face for red carpet moments.
Demi Moore Curly Pixie
Part of the dramatic hair evolution of Demi Moore in the 90s, this hairstyle is a short pixie cut that embraces natural curl and maximizes volume. Unlike smoother pixies, this look is defined by its airy, voluminous body and soft, defined ringlets, which were highly popular among celebrities of the era. The look is achieved by encouraging the natural curl pattern while ensuring the short layers maintain their piecey structure.
Alicia Silverstone Butterfly Clips
A playful ’90s hairstyle featuring butterfly clips placed strategically across the head, made iconic by Alicia Silverstone in *Clueless*. Loose strands escape freely, creating a whimsical, effortless vibe. This look combines nostalgic charm with casual, carefree energy.
Gwyneth Paltrow Side-Parted Pixie
A sleek, side-parted pixie that showcases Gwyneth Paltrow’s understated ’90s elegance. Subtle bobby pins hold strands in place while keeping the look minimalistic and chic. This style emphasizes facial features and works well with minimal styling products for a polished yet effortless finish.
Princess Diana 90s Layers
Building on her iconic ’80s haircut, Princess Diana’s ’90s layers were slightly longer, framing her face with soft elegance. This timeless royal style combines movement, volume, and sophistication, cementing her status as a hair legend across decades.
Drew Barrymore Platinum Curls
Platinum blonde curls styled in a classic ’90s fashion, complemented by thin eyebrows and bold red lips. Symmetrical daisy hair accessories add a playful, whimsical touch. This look combines vintage Hollywood glamour with youthful, carefree energy, perfect for formal events or making a statement.