The 1990s were a golden era for men’s hairstyles, with a variety of trends that defined the decade. From edgy cuts to laid-back looks, the 90s offered something for everyone.
Whether you’re feeling nostalgic or want to try out a retro look, here’s a countdown of the top 20 most iconic 90s hairstyles for men.
1. Curtain Hairstyle – 90s Hairstyles for Men
The curtain hairstyle, characterized by a middle part and flowing, face-framing hair, was a staple of 90s heartthrobs like Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp. This style was cool, casual, and effortlessly stylish.
2. The Flat Top
Popularized by hip-hop artists and athletes, the flat top featured short sides with a squared-off, high top. Will Smith’s character in The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air made this look famous.
3. Caesar Cut
A short, straightforward cut with horizontal bangs, the Caesar cut was popularized by George Clooney. This low-maintenance style offered a clean, polished look suitable for any occasion.
4. Grunge Hairstyle
Inspired by the grunge music scene, this look featured messy, shoulder-length hair. Kurt Cobain’s unkempt, carefree style became synonymous with 90s counterculture.
5. Spiky Hair
Spiky hair, often seen on boy band members like Nick Carter, was all about attitude. With a bit of gel or wax, this style turned short hair into a playful, edgy look.
6. The Bowl Cut
The bowl cut, with its rounded shape and blunt edges, was a defining look for kids and teens in the 90s. While it fell out of favor, it remains an iconic symbol of the era.
7. Frosted Tips
Frosted tips, where just the ends of the hair were bleached, were a bold statement. This look was particularly popular in the boy band scene, adding a touch of flair to short, spiky hair. One of the most obvious 90s hairstyles for men.
8. The Mullet
Business in the front, party in the back—the mullet was one of the most memorable 90s hairstyles. This cut featured short hair on the sides and front, with long hair in the back.
9. Buzz Cut
Simple, practical, and easy to maintain, the buzz cut was a go-to for many men in the 90s. This close-cropped style was often worn by athletes and military personnel.
10. The Male Perm
The male perm was a bold hairstyle trend in the 90s, adding volume and curls to hair that was otherwise straight. This look, popularized by celebrities like Justin Timberlake during his *NSYNC days, was all about embracing texture and making a statement.
Whether in tight curls or looser waves, the male perm added a playful and distinctive flair to 90s men’s fashion.
11. Cornrows
Cornrows, a traditional African hairstyle, gained mainstream popularity in the 90s, particularly in the hip-hop community. Artists like Snoop Dogg made this intricate, braided style iconic.
12. The Mohawk
The 90s Mohawk was more mainstream than its punk predecessor, often featuring a wider strip of hair down the center of the head. It was a daring choice that signaled confidence and individuality.
13. The Quiff
The quiff was a popular 90s hairstyle that combined elements of the pompadour and the flat top. This style featured volume at the front, with the hair styled upward and slightly back. The quiff was versatile, offering a sleek and sophisticated look while still allowing for some individuality.
14. Slicked-Back Hair
For a more polished look, many men opted for slicked-back hair in the 90s. With the help of gel or pomade, this style kept hair neatly in place, perfect for both formal and casual settings.
15. Flipped Ends
Flipped ends were a distinctive 90s hairstyle characterized by the ends of the hair being styled to flip outward. This look was often seen on men with medium-length hair and added a fun, carefree vibe to their appearance. Celebrities like Freddie Prinze Jr. popularized this style, which worked particularly well with layered cuts and provided a fresh, dynamic look.
16. Afro
The Afro made a comeback in the 90s, celebrated for its natural beauty and cultural significance. This voluminous style was worn with pride, particularly within the African-American community.
17. The Rat Tail
A more unconventional choice, the rat tail involved a single strand of longer hair at the nape of the neck, often left to grow while the rest of the hair was kept short.
18. Long Hair
Long hairstyles were a staple of the 90s, especially in the rock and metal scenes. Bands like Metallica and Guns N’ Roses brought back the long, flowing locks of the 70s with a modern twist.
19. Spiky Front
The spiky front hairstyle was a standout look in the 90s, characterized by short hair with the front section styled into spikes. This look was edgy and youthful, often seen on teen idols and boy band members. The spiky front was all about creating volume and texture at the hairline, making it a bold choice for those looking to add some attitude to their style.
20. Side Part
The side part, a simple yet sophisticated style, was another 90s favorite. It worked well with various hair lengths and textures, adding a touch of class to any look.
Conclusion – 90s Hairstyles for Men
These 90s hairstyles for men were more than just trends—they were expressions of personality and culture. Whether you want to relive the 90s or are just curious about the era, these iconic hairstyles for men are worth a try.
Tasos Moulios is the founder of Beardlong. He loves trying different beard and hair styles and blogs about them. The tips he shares come from his own experience and love for what he does.