Start Obsessing Over These '90s Hairstyles For Black Women

If you take a stroll down memory lane, you’ll remember that the ‘90s era was home to popular trends like African prints and patterns and bold makeup looks. And one of the most popular fads that continues to make waves in the beauty world is none other than ’90s hairstyles for Black women. Many of these hairstyles are well-suited for short, medium, and long hair. So, it’s easy to see why ’90s Black hairstyles are a top pick for beauty lovers. Plus, you may have spotted some of your favorite celebrities rocking these looks on red carpets and in music videos. If you’re game for taking a walk on the retro side with your ‘do, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for 16 of the best ’90s hairstyles for Black women that will make a lasting impression.

1. FINGER WAVES

Why we love them: Finger waves are one of the most timeless ’90s black hairstyles. They flaunt an S-shape that adds personality and sass to your look. Not to mention, they’re a gorgeous pick for anyone with short hair that’s looking to embrace an old-Hollywood glam vibe.

How to DIY the look: Start by washing your hair with the L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverPure Moisture Conditioner. Once your wash session is complete, apply a healthy amount of hair mousse, such as the L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle CURVE IT Elastic Curl Mousse, throughout your hair. Use a rattail comb to create a deep side part and comb your hair downward. Starting right below your part, use a comb to create an S-shape. Place your finger where you made the curved shape as you go to keep your hair in place. Repeat on the other side. Let your hair air dry.

2. SHORT PIXIE CUT

Why we love it: Short pixie cuts work wonders to accentuate your features. You’ll also be able to play with the length and angles for a customized look.

How to get the look: Ask your stylist to cut your pixie to suit your face shape.

3. SLEEK STRANDS WITH SWOOPED BANGS

Why we love them: Sleek strands are always on-trend, and pairing them with swooped bangs takes your look to the next level. We also dig that they help you emulate one of the most popular singers of the ’90s.

How to get the look: Consult with your stylist about cutting your fringe at an angle. Your bangs should slightly cover one of your eyes to really nail the look.

4. CROP CUT

Why we love it: Crops cuts allow you to flaunt an edgy yet sophisticated look. You can opt for a short cut or go a bit longer to frame your face to perfection.

How to get the look: Since this look is all about achieving the perfect length, it’s best to leave it to your stylist.

5. DREADLOCKS

Why we love them: Dreadlocks are a fashionable change of pace from traditional protective styles. They protect your hair from the elements without the heavy feel on your scalp. So, it’s no surprise that they are a top pick among ’90s hairstyles for Black women. 

How to get the look: This style requires a unique rolling and twisting method, so you’ll need to see a loc specialist to bring this look to life.

6. MUSHROOM CUT WITH PIECE-Y STRANDS

Why we love it: This haircut gives you the best of both worlds: short strands yet a bit of length to play with. It’s also a fabulous way to give your strands movement.

How to get the look: Play it safe and leave this haircut to the hands of your stylist.

7. SLEEK RELAXED HAIR

Why we love it: Sleek hair serves as a foolproof way to show off your true length. This style is also an excellent option for anyone who wants to explore a straighter texture without reverting back to their natural locks.

How to get the look: Click through to our article, This Is What You Should Know About Hair Relaxer, for all the deets.

8. JUMBO BOX BRAIDS

Why we love them: Jumbo box braids are a chic style that minimizes your time in the styling chair. They make it oh-so-easy to rock a beautiful woven pattern with a bold and playful finish.

How to get the look: See what all the hype is about with our article, How to Create Box Braids.

9. MICRO BRAIDS

Why we love them: Micro braids are a versatile 'do that can be styled just like your natural hair. Since these braids are on the small and thin side, you’ll be able to achieve a full look with tons of movement.

How to get the look: Ask your stylist to gently weave tiny braids throughout your mane. Keep in mind, you can experience breakage if your braids are installed too tightly.

10. SOCK BUN WITH BABY HAIRS

Why we love it: A sock bun with baby hairs is a classic updo style that helps you maintain a polished and put-together appearance. The pairing also works in your favor to keep your strands tucked away while adding a bit of flair to your look.

How to DIY the look: Grab a knee-high sock with elastic and cut off the toe area. Turn the sock inside out and roll it over itself to create a donut shape. Smooth your hair into a ponytail, then pull the length of your ponytail through the center of the sock, ensuring all of your strands are within it. Bring the sock back up to the ends of your ponytail and tuck the ends of your hair around it. Flip it inside out and roll the bun down the ponytail. Pin any stray hairs in place with a bobby pin. Place a dime-sized amount of hair gel, like the L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Clean Gel, on a small boar bristle brush and curl the baby hair toward your hairline. Wrap your hair with a silk scarf for a few minutes to set your style.

11. SILK PRESS

Why we love it: A silk press is a natural hairstyle that gives your locks movement, body, and a shiny finish. Plus, it requires less heat than the traditional press and curl look.

How to get the look: Work your way to smooth and silky strands with our article, Everything You Need To Know About Getting a Silk Press.

12. BANTU KNOTS

Why we love them: Bantu knots are a stunning protective style that allow you to rock mini buns throughout your mane. This style also serves as a chic way to call attention to your features.

How to get the look: Learn How to Do Bantu Knots to hop on the bandwagon.

13. SPIRAL CURLS

Why we love them: Spiral curls provide your mane with a bouncy and well-defined look. We also dig that they put your texture on full display. 

How to get the look: Get a step-by-step tutorial with our article, How to Get Spiral Curls.

14. BUZZ CUT

Why we love it: A buzz cut is the true definition of low-maintenance styling. This style is simple, chic, and you don’t have to worry about spending hours in the mirror to perfect it each day.

How to get the look: Consult with your stylist about cutting off your hair. You can also get creative and add a little scalp-design element into the mix.

15. NATURAL CURLS

Why we love them: Natural curls make it oh-so-easy to let your mane do its own thing. And you don’t have to rely on tons of hair-styling products to achieve breathtaking results.

How to DIY the look: Wash your natural strands with the L’Oréal Paris EverCreme Deep Nourish Shampoo and L’Oréal Paris EverCreme Deep Nourish Conditioner. Seal the deal with a dollop of curl mousse to enhance your texture. Let your hair air dry.

16. PIN-CURLED UPDO WITH PIECE-Y STRANDS

Why we love it: Pin-curled updos are perfect for flaunting texture and keeping your strands tucked away. These styles typically add hair extensions into the mix for a full and defined finish. They also provide your mane with an elegant and versatile spin that can transition from day to night with ease.

How to get the look: Since this look requires adding extensions into your updo for a full look, you’ll want to consult with your stylist.

Next: Now that you have all the intel on the best ’90s hairstyles for Black women, it’s time to turn your attention to your makeup game. Here are The Best Makeup Looks For Black Women to complement your ‘do.