16 Iconic 90s Messy Updos You Need to Try Today

The messy 90s updo has made a serious comeback, and I couldn’t be more excited about it. From the runway to the street to fabulous after-parties, these effortlessly chic styles were piled high and never overthought. That’s exactly what makes them so appealing—they’re deceptively easy to pull off!

I’ve always been drawn to 90s updo hairstyles for their versatility and undeniable cool factor. Whether you’re looking for a slapdash knot or a power ponytail, these 90s messy bun styles work for any occasion. Actually, some of my favorite 90s bun hairstyles feature minimalist updos with cheekbone-grazing strands, creating that perfect “I woke up like this” vibe. While browsing through 90s hair updo inspiration, I’ve noticed they all share one quality—they look complicated but are surprisingly simple to create. For those wanting to try these looks themselves, I’ve included detailed 90s messy updo tutorials for each style below.

Here are 16 messy 90s updo styles that not only capture that iconic decade’s effortless glamor but also—and this is crucial—actually stay put all day long. From curly updos with bangs to the trendy deconstructed twist, these styles work for everyday wear or special occasions. Let’s dive into these timeless looks that continue to influence how we style our hair today!

Pamela Anderson-Inspired Messy Bun

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a Pamela Anderson-inspired messy bun, featuring voluminous texture and loose strands, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless soft lavender backdrop with a matte finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

There’s something undeniably alluring about the iconic Pamela Anderson messy bun that has stood the test of time. This signature updo—featuring messy curls piled high, tumbling tendrils, and piecey bangs—perfectly captures that blend of glam and grunge that defined 90s hair styling. It’s no wonder this messy 90s updo has gained over 6.3 million views on TikTok!

Pamela Anderson-Inspired Messy Bun styling tips

I’ve tried countless 90s updo hairstyles, yet this remains my favorite because it’s deceptively simple. First, create some messy curls throughout your hair. Next, gather your hair into a ponytail, leaving out your bangs or two face-framing pieces. Then, loop your ponytail into a bun and secure with pins, intentionally keeping some ends free. Afterward, curl those loose ends and messily pin them back. The magic happens when you pull the bun apart for that signature fluffy, undone look. Finally, add volume to your bangs using a hot roller or curling iron and finish with hairspray.

Pamela Anderson-Inspired Messy Bun best products

For this 90s bun hairstyle, I recommend starting with volumizing products since volume is absolutely essential. My go-to combination includes:

  • Volumizing spray or mousse applied generously at the roots (SexyHair Root Pump works wonders)
  • Texturizing spray (Moroccanoil’s version gives perfect grit)
  • A strong-hold hairspray for longevity
  • Hot rollers or a large-barrel curling iron
  • Bobby pins coated with hairspray for better grip

Furthermore, mixing gel with mousse adds extra texture and grip—crucial for this deliberately messy style.

Pamela Anderson-Inspired Messy Bun hair type suitability

The beauty of this 90s messy updo is its versatility across hair types. For straight hair, I recommend adding extra texturizing spray throughout. Meanwhile, those with wavy hair (type 2) will find this style particularly forgiving as your natural texture provides built-in volume. Curly hair (types 3a-3c) can achieve this look without heat by using curl enhancers and wet-setting techniques. Additionally, type 4 curls can create beautiful interpretations using 1.5-inch wet rollers to form soft curls before styling. Remember—the messier, the better! This 90s hair updo thrives on that “just rolled out of bed but still glamorous” vibe.

French Twist with a 90s Edge

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a French twist with a 90s edge, featuring an elegant French twist bun with messy, undone edges and a voluminous bun, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm coral backdrop with a smooth texture. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

I’ve always admired the French twist for its elegant yet edgy appeal when given that 90s treatment. This updo has seen a major revival lately, especially with the resurgence of claw clips and messy styling. Essentially, the French twist combines sophisticated structure with deliberately undone elements—making it perfect for both everyday wear and special occasions.

French Twist with a 90s Edge styling tips

To create this 90s updo hairstyle in under 60 seconds, start by adding volumizing powder to your roots for texture. Next, toss all your hair back into a low ponytail, allowing side sections to swoop over your ears. Hold your ponytail in your right hand, then wrap the base upward using your left hand’s index and middle fingers. Twist counterclockwise once while bringing it to the crown of your head.

For that authentic 90s edge, pull out face-framing pieces before securing your twist. Moreover, consider these variations:

  • Make it messier by running hands against the grain after pinning
  • Create a double twist for added dimension
  • Add three small braids (about one inch wide) on one side for extra flair

French Twist with a 90s Edge best products

The right products truly elevate this 90s hair updo. I’ve found these essentials make all the difference:

  • Texturizing spray (Living Proof works wonderfully)
  • French pins rather than regular bobby pins (they hold better)
  • Resin banana clips for a non-slip hold
  • L’Oréal Paris Elnett Precious Oil Satin Hairspray for lasting hold without stiffness
  • For frizzy or thick hair, apply a serum like L’Oréal Paris Elvive Dream Lengths Frizz Killer beforehand

French Twist with a 90s Edge hair type suitability

This 90s messy updo works across various hair types, albeit with slight modifications. For finer hair, texturizing powder becomes your best friend—it expands the cuticle and gives volume when backcombing. Regardless of your hair’s density, the beauty of this style lies in its imperfection.

Thick hair naturally creates a fuller twist, although you might need additional pins for security. Conversely, if your hair lacks volume, teasing the roots slightly before twisting adds necessary bulk. For naturally curly hair, smoothing the outer layer while maintaining internal texture creates an interesting contrast that’s very 90s-inspired.

Tousled High Updo

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a tousled high updo, featuring voluminous layers, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless light teal backdrop with a glossy sheen. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

For those seeking height with attitude, the tousled high updo perfectly captures that iconic 90s vibe. This voluminous style combines maximum drama with minimal effort—creating what I consider the ultimate “big hair don’t care” moment. The beauty lies in its deliberate messiness; unlike sleeker styles, this updo thrives on texture and strategic disorder.

Tousled High Updo styling tips

To create this look, I start by curling my hair with a large barrel wand, alternating between curling toward and away from my face. This technique creates varying textures throughout. Next, I gently rough up the curls and add hairspray before gathering everything into a high ponytail. Instead of smoothing completely, I maintain some controlled messiness.

For added volume, I pull the top sections forward and upward. Subsequently, I begin molding the bun by taking small sections and pinning them in different directions. The key is working slowly to prevent excessive dishevelment. As I shape the bun, I direct pieces from the back forward, creating that signature tousled effect.

Firstly, remember that perfection is unnecessary—even if your updo isn’t perfectly neat, it will look fabulous. Secondly, pin curls without overthinking the pattern. In fact, teasing the crown area beforehand enhances the overall volume.

Tousled High Updo best products

For optimal results, I rely on:

  • Texturizing spray (AG Care salt spray works wonderfully)
  • Volume-enhancing powder like SexyHair powder play
  • Strong-hold hairspray that doesn’t create stiffness
  • Bobby pins (lots of them!)—the messiness of this style hides pins effectively
  • Optional hair donut for extra structure

Dry shampoo can be particularly helpful for this updo, considering it tends to hold better in slightly “lived-in” hair.

Tousled High Updo hair type suitability

This 90s messy updo is remarkably versatile across hair types. Nonetheless, there are some considerations:

Naturally wavy, curly, and coily hair types provide the perfect foundation. During my experiments, I’ve found that finer hair benefits from texturizing products to create necessary volume and grip. Conversely, those blessed with thick hair may need additional pins for security.

Even though this style looks spontaneous, the messy but classy result is anything but accidental. Ultimately, embracing your hair’s natural texture enhances this look—allowing loose, textured locks to appear messy yet magnificent.

Curly Updo with Bangs

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a curly updo with bangs, featuring loose curls and playful bangs, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm mustard backdrop with a satin finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Curly texture paired with face-framing bangs creates one of my absolute favorite 90s updo combinations. This flirty yet sophisticated style frames the face beautifully while keeping those curls contained in a practical updo. Having experimented with countless variations, I’ve discovered that curly updos with bangs work wonderfully for both casual outings and more formal events.

Curly Updo with Bangs styling tips

To achieve this look, begin by sectioning off your bang area in an oval shape—the size depends on how much fringe you prefer. After sectioning, tie up the bangs temporarily while forming your ponytail. Brush all your hair upward in the direction you want the ponytail, then secure it with a rubber band. Next, scrunch the ponytail into a bun, securing with pins. For added dimension, leave some curly ends free and strategically place them around the bun.

The secret to making this style last? Curl your sectioned bangs after creating the bun. This ensures they maintain their bounce throughout the day. For a truly 90s vibe, consider adding two face-framing strands alongside your bangs.

Curly Updo with Bangs best products

These products have been game-changers for my curly updo adventures:

  • Curl-elongating cream (Mizani’s True Textures Curl Define Pudding works wonders for definition)
  • Heat protectant spray (It’s a 10 Miracle leave-in is my go-to before using any hot tools)
  • Edge control (for sleek edges while keeping the top voluminous)
  • Strong-hold hairspray that doesn’t weigh down curls
  • Wax stick for taming flyaways around the bang area

Curly Updo with Bangs hair type suitability

This style is remarkably versatile across different hair types. For those with naturally curly hair, your texture provides built-in volume that makes this updo shine. If you have straighter hair, adding curl beforehand creates necessary texture. Likewise, those with round faces will find that fringe adds interest and visually elongates the face, whereas angular features benefit from the softening effect bangs provide.

One crucial tip—if you’re nervous about shrinkage, ask your stylist to cut your curly bangs while your hair is dry rather than wet. This prevents unpleasant length surprises once your curls spring back to their natural state.

Low Messy Bun with Face-Framing Strands

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a low messy bun with face-framing strands, featuring loose strands around the face, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless soft mint backdrop with a silky texture. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

The low messy bun with face-framing strands remains my go-to 90s updo when I need something both chic and practical. What makes this style truly stand out is how it softens your overall look while keeping hair elegantly contained at the nape of your neck.

Low Messy Bun with Face-Framing Strands styling tips

To achieve this effortless 90s messy bun, I start by applying volumizing spray powder directly to my roots for extra body. Next, I deliberately leave two sections loose at the front—you can adjust their thickness based on your preference. Then I gather the remaining hair into a loose ponytail positioned where I want my bun to sit.

After securing the ponytail, I twist it so it curls up on itself, creating the messy bun structure. For that authentic 90s vibe, I gently tug on sections of hair to loosen the bun and pull out a couple of face-framing tendrils. Indeed, these strategic strands instantly soften your facial features while adding that signature “undone” element.

Low Messy Bun with Face-Framing Strands best products

For this 90s hair updo to truly shine, I rely on:

  • Volumizing spray powder (göt2b Volumaniac Bodifying Spray Powder is perfect for intense volume without stickiness)
  • Weather-resistant hairspray (L’Oréal Paris Advanced Hairstyle LOCK IT Weather Control Hairspray provides up to 48 hours of hold)
  • Edge control for taming baby hairs (L’Oréal Paris Studio Line Mega Gel works wonderfully)
  • Bobby pins that match your hair color

Low Messy Bun with Face-Framing Strands hair type suitability

Consequently, this 90s bun hairstyle works beautifully across various hair types. For curly or coily textures, I recommend embracing those wispy baby hairs as part of the look. Furthermore, this style serves as the perfect solution for second or third-day hair—just add some baby powder with a concealer brush at your roots to refresh.

Spiky 90s Bun

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a spiky 90s bun, featuring high texture with spiky ends, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm peach backdrop with a matte finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

The spiky 90s bun stands out as that perfectly rebellious updo option in my styling arsenal. This distinctive style combines a sleek base with intentionally spiky ends—creating an edgy yet polished look that makes a statement.

Spiky 90s Bun styling tips

Creating this messy 90s updo is simpler than it appears. Initially, I secure my hair into a high ponytail on the crown of my head. Next, I twist the ponytail until it coils back on itself, deliberately leaving the ends out to create that signature spiky effect. For added dimension, I create three separate twisted sections with the ends fanning out. The key trick? Leave the right amount of hair out at the ends to achieve those perfect spikes without looking messy.

Alongside the main styling, smoothing down flyaways is essential for that ultra-sleek contrast between the polished base and spiky top.

Spiky 90s Bun best products

For this 90s hair updo to truly shine, these products are non-negotiable:

  • Strong-hold gel (like Joico JoiGel Firm)
  • Heat protectant spray before straightening
  • Super-strong hairspray that won’t flake
  • Bobby pins in your hair color

Spiky 90s Bun hair type suitability

Certainly, this style works across most hair types. Henceforth, those with fine hair should absolutely try this bun as it adds fantastic body and volume. For naturally curly hair, you can either straighten your hair first or embrace your texture to create a unique curly variation of the spiky look.

Half-Up Half-Down Updo

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a half-up half-down updo, featuring loose ends hanging down, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless light rose backdrop with a smooth texture. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Whenever I want that perfect blend of style and practicality, I reach for a half-up half-down 90s updo. This versatile style offers the ideal balance between keeping hair off your face while simultaneously showcasing length and texture.

Half-Up Half-Down Updo styling tips

For an authentic 90s vibe, start by parting your hair from behind ear to behind ear instead of top ear to top ear—this leaves more hair at the sides for a fuller look. Presently, I prefer creating a small semicircle section at the front for those iconic stiff 90s bangs. After securing the top half in a ponytail, gently tease each section for volume. Wrap each teased portion into loose buns, securing with bobby pins. For that signature knotted effect, take side pieces and wrap them around the outer bun.

Half-Up Half-Down Updo best products

Obviously, the right products make this style last all day:

  • Got2b Mess-merizing Sculpting Spritz for texture on damp hair
  • Texturizing hairspray for hold without stiffness
  • Texturizing putty for piece-y ends and bangs
  • Spritz or strong-hold spray (applied then blow-dried) ensures everything stays put

Half-Up Half-Down Updo hair type suitability

Primarily, this style works across all hair types. For curly textures, try adding some bantū knots to the secured portion for extra dimension. Straight hair benefits from added texture spray beforehand, whereas thicker hair might need additional pins for security.

Scrunchie-Enhanced Power Ponytail

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a scrunchie-enhanced power ponytail, featuring a bold scrunchie accent, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm olive backdrop with a glossy sheen. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Nothing says 90s nostalgia quite like a scrunchie-enhanced power ponytail. This bold, statement-making style has returned to the fashion forefront, gracing the heads of everyone from Lizzo to Gigi Hadid. As a true 90s hair revival, this look combines height, volume, and attitude with the practical benefits only a scrunchie can provide.

Scrunchie-Enhanced Power Ponytail styling tips

To create this eye-catching 90s updo hairstyle, position your ponytail at mid-back head height for a classic look, or take it higher and slightly to the side for maximum nostalgic impact. Accordingly, tilt your head upside down when gathering your hair to achieve maximum height and sleekness. For added volume, gently pull each section at the sides after securing your ponytail. Precisely for that authentic 90s power, use a patterned scrunchie to add visual interest or keep it neutral for a classier vibe.

Scrunchie-Enhanced Power Ponytail best products

Silk or satin scrunchies are ideal, as they won’t absorb moisture from your hair. Some fashion-forward options include:

  • Ganni Floral Satin Scrunchie – pairs perfectly with casual outfits
  • Lele Sadoughi’s tweed scrunchie – looks stylish even resting on your wrist
  • LilySilk pack of silk scrunchies – gentle yet effective for daily wear

Scrunchie-Enhanced Power Ponytail hair type suitability

Importantly, scrunchies work wonderfully for all hair types and lengths. Unlike traditional elastics that can snag or damage hair, scrunchies don’t need to be tied tightly to stay put. For those with shorter lobs, this style adds instant nostalgic flair. Ultimately, the 90s power ponytail with a scrunchie creates that perfect balance between retro cool and practical functionality.

Voluminous Top Knot

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a voluminous top knot, featuring high volume and messy texture, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless soft taupe backdrop with a satin finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

The voluminous top knot remains my ultimate 90s updo for those moments when I need both height and drama. As a result of its versatility, this style has become a staple in my repertoire for everything from running errands to formal events.

Voluminous Top Knot styling tips

For maximum volume, I typically start with second or third-day hair, as clean hair tends to be too slippery. To begin, I gather my hair into a high ponytail, then backcomb from the midsection down to the base. After that, I wrap my ponytail clockwise around the elastic, tucking the ends underneath. For extra fullness, I incorporate a hair donut—sliding it over my ponytail base before wrapping. Gently tugging sections outward creates that perfect messy-yet-intentional look.

Voluminous Top Knot best products

These game-changers ensure my top knot stays put:

  • Invisibobble hair ties ($5.09) which prevent breakage and headaches
  • Color Wow Pop & Lock High Gloss Finish ($7.95) for frizz control
  • A tail comb for smoothing and tucking stray hairs
  • Strong-hold hairspray like Wella EIMI Super Set

Voluminous Top Knot hair type suitability

In essence, this style works beautifully across hair types. Those with curly, textured hair naturally achieve fullness, yet even fine-haired individuals can create impressive volume through back-combing. Clip-in extensions offer another solution for added fullness.

Mini Claw Clip Updo

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a mini claw clip updo, featuring a messy style secured with a mini claw clip, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm amber backdrop with a silky texture. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Mini claw clips have become my secret weapon for creating effortlessly chic 90s-inspired styles that stay put all day. Unlike their larger counterparts, these tiny accessories add a refreshing twist while making your face pop.

Mini Claw Clip Updo styling tips

Trying to secure a half-up style with a single clip? Consider adding a second mini claw clip for better security and an unexpected twist. For a simple yet effective approach, I position these clips in different parts of my hair, creating dimension without effort. Yet another technique involves using them to secure buns or twists when you need a smaller anchor point. The best positioning comes from sliding the clip from one side to the other, getting as high as possible to avoid extra hair at the top.

Mini Claw Clip Updo best products

My go-to mini claw clip options include:

  • Anthropologie Mini Claw Hair Clip Set ($30.00) – comes with four oval cutout clips and four smaller pronged clips for versatile styling
  • Emi Jay Sweetheart Clip ($34.00) – perfect for both hair and accessorizing bags
  • Resin or cellulose acetate clips – biodegradable options available in tortoiseshell, checkerboard, and alabaster prints

Mini Claw Clip Updo hair type suitability

These mini marvels work wonderfully for fine hair or baby hair due to their gentle grip. Hence, they won’t slide off delicate strands. Moreover, these clips cause less damage than hair ties as they don’t pull or dent your strands. Thus, they’re perfect for those concerned about breakage or marks left by traditional elastics.

Ribbon-Tied Bun

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a ribbon-tied bun, featuring a messy bun with a colorful ribbon woven into the hair for a playful accent, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless light gold backdrop with a glossy sheen. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Adding ribbons to a bun instantly creates that dreamy 90s supermodel vibe I absolutely adore. This style channels the elegance of runway icons who paired ribbon-tied buns with wispy fringe for an unforgettable look.

Ribbon-Tied Bun styling tips

For a quick version, I thread two 4-foot ribbons through my ponytail elastic, then split my hair into four sections. Next, I twist each section with a ribbon piece, coiling it upward to form the bun. Alternatively, I love creating a high twisted bun with ribbon for a five-minute style that transitions perfectly from day to night.

Ribbon-Tied Bun best products

My must-haves include:

  • AMIKA Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray for natural-looking waves
  • CHRISTOPHE ROBIN Daily Hair Cream to minimize frizz while adding shine
  • SEXY HAIR Weather Proof Humidity Resistant Spray to keep everything secure

Ribbon-Tied Bun hair type suitability

This style works magnificently across hair types. For natural hair, I secure my strands into a mid-height ponytail, wrap into a bun, pin loosely, then tie a ribbon at the center. Despite its delicate appearance, this style stays put all day with proper pinning. Considering how bows add instant charm to any hairstyle, it’s no wonder they’ve become my favorite finishing touch for creating that perfect coquette-inspired 90s updo.

Slicked-Back Bun with Wispy Bangs

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a slicked-back bun with wispy bangs, featuring a slicked-back messy bun and soft wispy bangs, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm bronze backdrop with a satin finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

The combination of a sleek bun with soft, wispy bangs creates my favorite juxtaposition in 90s-inspired styling. This versatile updo pairs structured elegance with feathery fringe for a look that’s both polished yet effortlessly cool.

Slicked-Back Bun with Wispy Bangs styling tips

For this 90s hair updo, I start by clipping aside a thin section that frames my hairline. Then I apply gel through my hair and brush it back into a sleek, snug ponytail using a smoothing brush. Primarily, I ensure there are no bumps by thoroughly smoothing all layers. Thereafter, I unclip those front wispy pieces, apply gel, and carefully brush them back to blend with the tied hair. Next, I twist the ponytail into a bun, securing it with a hair tie or claw clip. For those wispy bangs, I use a straightener to lightly curl them away from my face for that effortless swoop.

Slicked-Back Bun with Wispy Bangs best products

My go-to products include:

  • Lightweight water-based gel (Garnier Pure Clean works wonderfully)
  • Boar bristle brush for smooth, bump-free results
  • Wax stick for taming those baby hairs and flyaways
  • Heat protectant before flat ironing roots

Slicked-Back Bun with Wispy Bangs hair type suitability

Specifically for wavy 2B hair, flat ironing just the roots creates that perfect sleek look. Besides looking chic, these wispy bangs beautifully soften angular features and balance wider foreheads.

Crimped Texture Updo

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a crimped texture updo, featuring bold crimped texture for a 90s vibe, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless soft plum backdrop with a matte finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Crimping hair before creating an updo fundamentally changes the styling game! This texture technique from the 90s delivers incredible volume and staying power that other methods simply can’t match. Throughout my experience, I’ve found crimped texture updos to be foolproof for special occasions when your style absolutely must last.

Crimped Texture Updo styling tips

Predominantly, the biggest mistake people make is trying to add volume after creating their updo. Instead, crimp your hair before styling to ensure maximum volume. For accent pieces, using a hair crimper is fastest. I suggest crimping just the upper layer for a natural wavy look or crimping all hair for maximum volume. To avoid a dated look, backcomb the strand first, then crimp in chaotic directions before brushing gently.

Crimped Texture Updo best products

Unquestionably, a quality micro crimping iron makes all the difference. Look for one with:

  • Variable temperature settings to protect colored hair
  • Ergonomic handle that reduces hand fatigue
  • Micro crimping plates that compress hair for three times more volume

Together with heat protectant spray, these tools create secure styles that won’t slip or fall.

Crimped Texture Updo hair type suitability

Notably, crimping works on most hair textures. For curly hair, consider blowdrying or straightening first to create a base for crimping. Fine-haired people benefit most from this technique as it creates the illusion of thicker hair. As shown in countless updos, the hidden crimped texture adds remarkable grip and security—perfect for formal occasions where styles must stay flawless all night.

Side-Swept Messy Bun

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a side-swept messy bun, featuring loose strands for a casual look, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless light aqua backdrop with a smooth texture. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

I’ve fallen head over heels for the side-swept messy bun—a flirty 90s updo that frames your face beautifully while keeping your look effortlessly chic.

Side-Swept Messy Bun styling tips

Creating this look involves sectioning off your bangs first, then making another section for face-framing strands. The trick lies in how you position the bun—slightly to one side rather than centered. For added dimension, I recommend curling your hair as you go rather than starting with fully curled hair. Typically, I secure the side-swept section with bobby pins to maintain that gorgeous swoop. For a fuller effect, you can optionally add clip-ins directed upward so the tracks lay naturally when styled.

Side-Swept Messy Bun best products

For this 90s hair updo to truly shine, I rely on:

  • Heat protectant before using flat irons or curlers
  • Light-hold hairspray (avoid heavy products for that effortless look)
  • Bobby pins that match your hair color
  • Texture spray for added grip and volume

Side-Swept Messy Bun hair type suitability

In contrast to other styles, this bun works wonderfully on both straight and curly hair. Notwithstanding your hair texture, the side-swept element flatters most face shapes. Generally, second-day hair provides better grip and staying power for this 90s messy updo.

Double Bun Updo

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a double bun updo, featuring two playful messy buns, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm sage backdrop with a glossy sheen. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

Double buns have recaptured my heart as the ultimate playful 90s updo that combines fun with functionality. Where single buns can feel uptight, double buns offer that approachable, carefree vibe that defines 90s hair esthetics.

Double Bun Updo styling tips

To create perfect double buns, I always begin by thoroughly detangling my hair before creating a clean middle part extending from forehead to nape. Next, I divide my hair into two equal sections for symmetrical mini chignons. For proper placement, position the buns high and close to the back of your head—not sticking out like Princess Leia! Once secured in pigtails, I loosely braid each section for added volume rather than tightly braiding them. Twist placement matters: I direct each bun slightly downward toward the center, leaving ends hanging down the middle for that effortless 90s feel.

Double Bun Updo best products

For double buns that truly stay put, I rely on:

  • Colorwell cool favorite hairspray for control without stiffness or flaking
  • Blank hair elastics that truly grip without slipping
  • Bobby pins in your hair color for invisible securing
  • FEIPRO human hair pieces if you need extra volume for fuller buns

Double Bun Updo hair type suitability

Fortunately, this style works across various hair textures. For finer hair, texturizing spray creates necessary grip, whereas thicker hair naturally forms fuller buns. Remember—slightly messy looks best, plus nobody will notice that quarter-inch difference between sides except you!

Messy Bun with Clip-In Extensions

A vibrant young female model in her 20s with natural skin tone, showcasing a 90s messy updo with a messy bun with clip-in extensions, featuring added volume from extensions, captured in a close-up shot focusing on the hair, photographed against a seamless warm terracotta backdrop with a satin finish. She has subtle makeup, a retro full-shirt 90s outfit, realistic hair texture, warm skin tone, and a friendly expression, captured with soft natural lighting and an Instagram-style beauty vibe.

For those with fine hair dreaming of voluminous 90s styles, clip-in extensions have completely transformed my messy bun game. These handy hair pieces add instant thickness to natural buns in just one simple step—they’re basically the “no makeup” makeup of hair.

Messy Bun with Clip-In Extensions styling tips

To create this fuller look, start by gathering hair into a small top knot and securing with an elastic. Correspondingly, expand your clip-in bun by pressing the adjustable drawstring buckle and pulling outward. Position the extension over your natural bun, sliding the inner combs underneath your hair tie. Further secure by tightening the drawstring and tucking excess ends inside. For enhanced texture, try the upside-down method: leave one layer down a few inches above your nape, clip in a two-clip weft upside down, then add a three-clip weft right-way down below the part line.

Messy Bun with Clip-In Extensions best products

These game-changers include:

  • Pre-styled clip-in buns that come perfectly styled
  • Claw clip extensions with synthetic hair attached
  • Drawstring bun extensions with secure attachments

Messy Bun with Clip-In Extensions hair type suitability

Throughout my experiments, I’ve found extensions work beautifully for fine or thin hair. As such, they’re not recommended for those with particularly thick or long hair as natural volume may be difficult to disguise under the extension.

Conclusion

Experimenting with these 90s messy updos has truly changed my styling game. Whether I need a quick fix for a bad hair day or a glamorous look for a special occasion, these versatile styles never disappoint. Throughout my hair journey, I’ve learned that the beauty of 90s-inspired updos lies in their intentional messiness—they’re actually meant to look a bit undone!

After trying countless variations, I can confidently say these styles work across different hair types, lengths, and textures. My fine-haired friends particularly love how these updos create the illusion of fullness, while my curly-haired pals appreciate how these styles celebrate their natural texture.

The best part? These 90s updos require minimal effort yet deliver maximum impact. You definitely don’t need advanced styling skills to achieve these looks—just the right products, a handful of bobby pins, and perhaps a cute scrunchie or mini claw clip.

Messy doesn’t mean unstylish or unprofessional, either. These updo styles strike that perfect balance between carefree and put-together, making them appropriate for both casual coffee dates and formal events. My personal favorites remain the French twist with a 90s edge and the ribbon-tied bun—both effortless yet so elegant!

These timeless styles have stayed relevant because they combine practicality with that cool-girl esthetic we all secretly crave. Nostalgia aside, their staying power proves these aren’t just trends—they’re reliable styling solutions that have rightfully earned their place in our hair repertoire.

So grab your texturizing spray, embrace those face-framing tendrils, and have fun creating your own version of these classic 90s updos. Remember, the messier, the better!

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