How to Style ’90s Bangs, According to Hairstylists

’90s-inspired hair is having a major comeback this season, and this gorgeous wispy bang trend from the ’90s is all about the feathered look. According to stylists, the iconic bangs trend of the season is full of fringe and volume.

“We’re seeing a nod to the ’90s as skinny, wispy bangs at the front of the face are making a comeback. This type of bang is much different than the fuller, face-framing curtain bang we saw take over a while back,” explains Sarah Potempa, celebrity hairstylist and The Beachwaver Co. founder. To recreate this look, celebrity hair stylist, Laura Polko, says you can play with the style to add volume and keep the bangs super wispy and feathered.

What Is the ’90s Bangs Cut?

Polko recommends asking your hair stylist for face framing around the face as well as the bang cut. “It blends [the bangs] a tiny bit, but then if you want to tie your hair back, you have a little bit of face framing and bang,” explains Polko. This makes the bang and face framing blend seamlessly. “I really love this type of bang paired with layers throughout the hair as it helps blend and add softness throughout the locks for a very pretty look,” says Potempa.

To avoid any dreadful haircut moments, Potempa suggests finding inspiration photos to show your hairstylist. “I always recommend looking for inspiration photos showcasing a cut on someone with a similar face shape and hair texture as yourself. This gives you insight on how this would look on you and allow your stylist to visualize exactly what you want,” explains Potempa.

How to Style the ’90s Bang Look

Step 1: The Prep

Hair styling prep begins in the shower for healthy, voluminous hair. Seek a volumizing shampoo and conditioner to properly wash hair and add volume. For an extra touch, use the Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector ($30, olaplex.com) as a pre-shampoo treatment to strengthen and smooth hair before heat styling.

Step 2: The Style

This 90’s bangs look pairs perfectly with a blowout style. “I think that it’s really fun especially if you want to do a whole ’90s blowout to have the bangs is such a great added little bonus to it,” says Polko. 

Start the blowout by using a medium-sized round brush ($13.99, target.com) to create volume. Polko recommends moving the brush under the bang then using a side-to-side movement to dry your hair.

Step 3: The Finishings

To secure the style in place, Polko suggests using a texture spray to achieve the ’90s bangs look. The Ceremonia Texturizing Salt Spray ($20, ceremonia.com) provides a voluminous effect and added texture for this hair style. She works texture spray throughout the hair and the ends to make sure it’s not greasy or crunchy.