How to Achieve the Perfect '90s Bangs, According to Experts

The timeless, feathered bang look from the '90s remains iconic. Stylists reveal that you can capture this signature style by blending the right amount of fringe with volume.

"This style of bangs differs greatly from the fuller, face-framing curtain bangs that became popular recently," says Sarah Potempa, celebrity hairstylist and founder of The Beachwaver Co. Celebrity stylist Laura Polko advises experimenting with volume and maintaining the light, airy texture to perfect this look.

What Does the '90s Bangs Style Entail?

Polko suggests asking your stylist for bangs that frame the face. "This softens [the bangs] just a little, but when you tie your hair back, you still get the benefit of face-framing along with the bangs," Polko explains. This creates a smooth blend between the bangs and face framing. "I love this style paired with layers throughout the hair as it adds softness and blends beautifully for a more flattering look," says Potempa.

To avoid any haircut regrets, Potempa recommends bringing inspiration photos to your stylist. "I always suggest showing pictures of a cut on someone with a similar face shape and hair texture to yours. This helps you visualize how the style will look on you, and lets your stylist know exactly what you want," Potempa advises.

How to Achieve the '90s Bang Style

Step 1: The Preparation

Hair styling starts in the shower for healthy, voluminous locks. Use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to properly cleanse and boost hair volume. For an added benefit, apply Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector as a pre-shampoo treatment to strengthen and smooth your hair before styling with heat.

Step 2: The Styling

The '90s bangs look is a perfect match for a blowout. "I think it’s really fun, especially if you’re going for a full '90s blowout. Adding the bangs is such a great finishing touch," says Polko.

Begin the blowout with a medium-sized round brush to add volume. Polko suggests positioning the brush beneath the bangs and using a side-to-side motion to dry the hair.

Step 3: The Final Touches

To keep your style locked in, Polko recommends using a texture spray to perfect the '90s bangs look. The Ceremonia Texturizing Salt Spray adds volume and texture for this hairstyle. She applies the texture spray throughout the hair and at the ends to ensure it’s not greasy or stiff.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Who looks best with '90s bangs?

  The '90s bangs style complements a variety of hair types and face shapes. To get the right look for you, focus on customizing the style for your unique hair type. For those with thick curls, ask your stylist for a dry cut to help shape your bangs to the desired length. You might also consider adding choppy layers for texture and framing that suits your face shape. If you have thin hair, consult your stylist for products that will give your bangs more body, and consider going for the delicate, wispy bang style.

• Who are some style icons for '90s bangs inspiration?

  If you're looking for inspiration, turn to the '90s icons who made the style famous—think Gwenyth Paltrow’s sleek, wispy bangs or Tatyana Ali’s voluminous, piecey bangs. Sarah Jessica Parker rocked '90s bangs with her curly cut. And, if you’ve ever seen an episode of Friends, you know Jennifer Aniston’s iconic "Rachel haircut" with its perfectly feathered bangs.