Tiny Waves
Small waves were a signature look of the ’90s, ranging from relaxed, beachy textures to precise, uniform waves created with heat tools. This style adds movement and shine, offering a playful yet polished aesthetic that remains iconic decades later.
| Hair Type | Wavy |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Everyday |
| Prep Time | Varies depending on natural texture |
| Styling Time | Varies depending on wave uniformity |
| Setting Time | Optional |
| Total Time | Varies |
| Hair Length | Medium |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Popularity | 78/100 |
| Tags | texturedwavyplayful |
Instructions
- 1
Work with clean, dry hair or slightly dampened hair depending on desired wave definition.
- 2
Apply heat protectant spray evenly throughout to prevent damage.
- 3
Section hair with clips for easier styling.
- 4
Use a crimping iron or small-barrel curling wand to create tiny waves in each section.
- 5
Alternate the direction of waves or keep uniform, depending on preferred style.
- 6
Gently shake or tousle hair for a softer, natural look.
- 7
Optionally finish with a light mist of finishing spray to maintain texture.
Styling Tips
Looser, beachy waves can be achieved by leaving sections slightly larger and less uniform.
Use fingers rather than a brush to preserve wave definition and texture.
This style works well for medium to long hair, and shorter hair may require tighter sections for similar 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
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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
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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.