
The Sky-High Pony
This 90s-inspired hairstyle features a sleek, high ponytail with a flipped curl at the ends and swooshed bangs at the front. Popularized by Tyra Banks, it adds height and drama while maintaining polished sophistication. Perfect for medium to long hair, this look is ideal for red carpet events, casual outings, or any occasion where a statement ponytail is desired.
Hair Type | Straight to Wavy |
Categories | |
Occasion | Red Carpet / Statement / Casual |
Prep Time | 10 minutes |
Styling Time | 20 minutes |
Setting Time | 5 minutes |
Total Time | 35 minutes |
Hair Length | Long |
Difficulty | Medium |
Popularity | 91/100 |
Tags | sleekhigh-ponyretro |
Instructions
- 1
Start with clean, dry hair.
- 2
Apply heat protectant evenly throughout hair.
- 3
Brush hair upward and gather it into a high ponytail at the crown.
- 4
Secure ponytail with a strong elastic, ensuring it is tight and smooth.
- 5
Use a curling iron or flat iron to flip the ends of the ponytail outward.
- 6
Style the front swooshed bangs using a flat iron or round brush for a soft curve.
- 7
Use bobby pins as needed to keep bangs and flipped ends in place.
- 8
Apply light-hold hairspray to maintain shape and sleekness.
- 9
Optionally, apply a small amount of shine serum for polished, glossy finish.
- 10
Check overall symmetry and height, adjusting the ponytail or flipped curl as needed.
Styling Tips
Brush hair thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth ponytail.
Flipping the ends adds dimension and movement, keeping the look playful yet polished.
Swooshed bangs soften the face and add retro flair.
Use a strong elastic to maintain height throughout the day.
Light hairspray preserves sleekness without making hair stiff.
Shine serum enhances the polished, high-fashion effect.
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.