The Twist-Back
This classic 90s hairstyle features a half-rolled twist pinned back, often finished with a butterfly clip for a playful, nostalgic touch. Popularly called "picture-day hair" by school kids, it gives medium-length hair a polished yet fun look. The twist adds dimension and lifts the hair off the face, creating an effortlessly stylish vibe that epitomizes the decade.
| Hair Type | Straight to Wavy |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Casual |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Styling Time | 15 minutes |
| Setting Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
| Hair Length | Medium |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Popularity | 80/100 |
| Tags | playfulretroschool-day |
Instructions
- 1
Start with clean, detangled hair. Brush thoroughly to remove knots.
- 2
Create a deep or side part based on your preference.
- 3
Take a section of hair from the front or side near the part.
- 4
Twist this section away from your face, keeping it smooth but not overly tight.
- 5
Pull the twist back toward the crown or mid-back of your head.
- 6
Secure the twisted section with a small elastic or bobby pins.
- 7
Clip a butterfly accessory at the end of the twist for a true 90s look.
- 8
Repeat the twist on the other side if desired for symmetry or a fuller effect.
- 9
Gently tease the crown for subtle volume, using a comb or fingers.
- 10
Apply light hold hairspray over the top and sides to tame flyaways.
- 11
Use fingers to adjust and refine the twist for a natural, effortless finish.
- 12
Check from multiple angles to ensure balance and neatness.
Styling Tips
Choose a bright or patterned butterfly clip for extra 90s authenticity.
Twist loosely for a relaxed, casual vibe or tighter for a polished effect.
Works beautifully on straight, wavy, or slightly textured hair.
Add a little texturizing spray before twisting for extra hold and body.
Pair with a soft, natural makeup look to emulate classic 90s school photos.
This style can be dressed up with multiple twists or left simple for everyday wear.
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.