Buzz
Ask anyone to name the most iconic '90s hairstyle, and the Rachel haircut is bound to come up. During the peak of 'Friends', salons worldwide were flooded with requests for Jennifer Aniston's signature fluffy, layered haircut. Discover why this style remains a favorite and learn how to recreate it—only with an even better twist.
What Exactly Is the Rachel Haircut?
This legendary cut, affectionately known as 'The Rachel,' showcases a shoulder-length style packed with voluminous layers. It's no surprise this look is so beloved—offering just the right length to avoid being too bold, it delivers a playful, shaggy volume without the need for a dramatic chop.
Plus, people love the retro vibes. With several old-school beauty and fashion trends making a comeback, interest in the Rachel haircut has surged by an incredible 174% since the Friends: The Reunion special (according to beauty retailer Justmylook). Even A-listers like Bella Hadid, Mariah Carey, and Selena Gomez have embraced this legendary cut.
Drawbacks of the Classic Cut
As the Rachel haircut makes its return, influencers are going above and beyond to recreate the look, using curling irons to steam their hair and securing strands with rollers. However, fans are quickly realizing that the iconic style isn't as simple to replicate as it seems.
In an interview with Marie Claire, Jennifer Aniston opened up about the challenges of the hairstyle: "The Rachel was high maintenance. I'd curse Chris every time I had to blow dry. It took three brushes—it was like performing surgery!"
Getty ImagesRecreating the Rachel Haircut: The Perfect Cut and Shade
So what does the updated Rachel style look like? Fortunately, modern blow dryers and brushes help reduce heat damage, making the signature flick much easier to achieve. For some extra tips, the beauty experts at Justmylook have shared straightforward steps for getting the Rachel haircut at the salon and styling it flawlessly at home.
Achieving the Perfect Cut and Shade
While the original Rachel cut was shorter (around shoulder length) with maximum volume and hairspray, the updated version is slightly longer, softer, and has more movement, according to hairstylist Luke Williams. However, it still retains the signature face-framing flick from the original.
"The Rachel [haircut] looks best on hair with lots of layers as it gives your hair more volume, shaping it into a heart around your face and framing it beautifully," Williams explains. Subtle highlights, like the money piece, can also add depth and enhance the cut.
Keeping the Rachel Haircut Fresh at Home
Step 1: Use a Shampoo that Adds Volume
Volume is crucial for this cut. "To achieve that light and fluffy texture, it’s important to avoid oil buildup, as it can weigh the hair down. Don't let your hair go too long between washes. A volumizing shampoo in the shower will do wonders," advise the stylists.
Step 2: Apply a Nourishing Serum
Next, hydrate and care for your hair with hair oil or a serum. "Once your hair is damp after washing, apply a few drops of oil or serum to give your locks a smooth finish and prepare them for styling," recommend the Justmylook experts.
Step 3: Blow Dry Using a Round Brush
Next, style your hair with a blow dryer. "To perfect the style, dry your hair with a round brush or a blow-drying hairbrush," the experts suggest.
Begin by creating volume at the roots, lifting the hair upward and away from your face as it dries. As you work through the lengths, curl the ends inwards to frame your face. Avoid straightening the hair, as it will flatten the volume you've worked hard to achieve.
