Jennifer Lopez’s Messy Bun
This look embodies that laid-back yet polished spirit. The bun sits high and casual, with a few loose strands framing the face. Hair clips add a playful touch, keeping it true to the nostalgic style. For those with straighter or finer strands, using a crimper helps achieve the right texture before pinning everything up.
| Hair Type | Straight |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Casual |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Styling Time | 15 minutes |
| Setting Time | 5 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Hair Length | Medium |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Popularity | 88/100 |
| Tags | retroupdoplayful |
Instructions
- 1
Start with dry hair. If strands are fine or very straight, use a crimper to create soft texture.
- 2
Apply texturizing spray throughout the hair to add grip and volume.
- 3
Gather hair into a high ponytail and secure with an elastic band.
- 4
Twist the ponytail loosely and wrap it around the base to form a bun.
- 5
Use bobby pins to secure the bun, leaving some ends out for a casual feel.
- 6
Allow a few strands to fall naturally around the face for softness.
- 7
Add decorative hair clips around the bun for a 90s-inspired finish.
- 8
Mist lightly with hairspray to keep everything in place while maintaining a natural look.
Styling Tips
Crimp hair before styling if you want added hold and body.
Use clear elastics for a cleaner finish or colorful ones for a nostalgic vibe.
Leave face-framing pieces slightly curled for a softer look.
If hair is very thick, divide into two ponytails, twist each, then combine into a fuller bun.
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.