Micro Braids

Micro Braids

This iconic 90s hairstyle features countless tiny braids woven close to the scalp, giving a highly textured and versatile look. Popularized by Brandy on her TV show Moesha, the style frames the face beautifully and allows for playful versatility—braids can be worn loose, in ponytails, or styled into intricate updos. Micro braids offer both style and protection, making them a practical yet statement-making choice.

Hair TypeCurly / Coily / Wavy
Categories
OccasionEveryday / Special Occasion
Prep Time30 minutes
Styling Time3-6 hours (depending on hair length and density)
Drying Time0 minutes
Total Time3-6 hours
Hair LengthLong
DifficultyHard
Popularity92/100
Tags
protectivetexturedstatement

Instructions

  1. 1

    Start with clean, detangled, and moisturized hair.

  2. 2

    Apply a leave-in conditioner or light styling cream to add slip and protect hair.

  3. 3

    Use a comb or rat-tail comb to divide hair into small, even sections.

  4. 4

    Secure sections not currently being braided with hair clips.

  5. 5

    Begin braiding each section tightly from root to tip, incorporating additional braiding hair if desired for length or volume.

  6. 6

    Continue braiding until all sections are completed. Check for uniform size and tightness of braids.

  7. 7

    Seal ends with small elastics, hair ties, or by dipping in warm water if using synthetic hair.

  8. 8

    Smooth edges with edge control gel to create a polished finish.

  9. 9

    Optionally, add beads, cuffs, or other decorative accessories to the ends of braids for a personalized 90s look.

  10. 10

    Gently style braids into ponytails, updos, or leave them loose depending on preference.

  11. 11

    Maintain braids by moisturizing the scalp and edges regularly to prevent dryness or breakage.

Styling Tips

  • Use small, consistent sections for a neat and professional appearance.

  • Moisturize regularly to keep braids looking fresh and prevent breakage.

  • Be patient—the smaller the braids, the longer they take but the more striking the result.

  • Add accessories like beads or colorful hair ties to embrace 90s nostalgia.

  • Micro braids can last several weeks with proper care, making them low-maintenance once done.

  • For added flair, braid sections into creative patterns or combine with other protective styles.

More 90s Hairstyles For Women

View Hilary Banks Hat-Ready Hairstyle

Hilary Banks Hat-Ready Hairstyle

Straight35 minutes

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.

View Sarah Jessica Wild Natural Curls

Sarah Jessica Wild Natural Curls

Curly115 minutes

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.

View Michelle Williams Emmy 1999

Michelle Williams Emmy 1999

Straight20 minutes

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.

View Demi Moore Curly Pixie

Demi Moore Curly Pixie

Curly40 minutes

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.

View Alicia Silverstone Butterfly Clips

Alicia Silverstone Butterfly Clips

Straight15-20 minutes

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.

View Gwyneth Paltrow Side-Parted Pixie

Gwyneth Paltrow Side-Parted Pixie

Straight5-13 minutes

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.

View Princess Diana 90s Layers

Princess Diana 90s Layers

Straight to Slightly Wavy20-25 minutes

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.

View Drew Barrymore Platinum Curls

Drew Barrymore Platinum Curls

Curly45-55 minutes

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.