The 90s gave men some of the most memorable haircuts ever, from curtains and frosted tips to high-top fades and grunge shags. Many of them are back, updated with softer texture and cleaner fades.
These 20 90s hairstyles for men show the original look and how to wear it today. Each one comes with a tip to keep it modern rather than costume-like.
1. Curtains
Curtains, a middle-parted fringe that falls on each side of the face, were the defining 90s heartthrob haircut. Today they look softer and more textured, and they suit straight and wavy hair.
SaveHow to wear it now: Keep the sides shorter and blow-dry the front away from the centre part with a little sea salt spray.
2. Bowl Cut
The bowl cut was a 90s staple with a rounded, even fringe. The modern version is textured and paired with faded sides.
SaveHow to wear it now: Ask for point-cut texture on top so the shape does not look too heavy.
3. Frosted Tips
Bleached tips on spiky hair were one of the most famous 90s trends. A subtle version with soft, blended highlights looks fresh now.
SaveHow to wear it now: Keep the bleach to the very ends and use matte wax instead of shiny gel.
4. Spiky Hair
Short, gelled spikes were everywhere in the 90s. Today they look best with a matte finish and more natural separation.
SaveHow to wear it now: Use a matte clay and pinch the hair upwards with your fingertips.
5. Buzz Cut
The buzz cut was the low-maintenance choice of the decade, and it is still timeless.
SaveHow to wear it now: Add a skin fade at the sides for a sharper, modern finish.
6. Caesar Cut
The Caesar cut has a short, straight fringe and even length on top. It is clean and easy.
SaveHow to wear it now: Ask for a textured fringe rather than a blunt line.
7. Textured Crop
A short crop with a textured top started in the late 90s and is one of the most popular cuts today.
SaveHow to wear it now: Use a little paste to push the fringe forward.
8. Grunge Shag
Inspired by 90s grunge, the shag has messy, choppy layers and an undone feel.
SaveHow to wear it now: Air dry with a texturising spray and avoid brushing.
9. Side-Swept Bangs
Side-swept bangs were a softer 90s look, popular with boy bands.
SaveHow to wear it now: Blow-dry the fringe to one side and finish with light cream.
10. Slicked-Back Hair
Slicked-back hair had a glossy, polished 90s finish.
SaveHow to wear it now: Use a water-based pomade for shine without stiffness.
11. High-Top Fade
The high-top fade is an iconic 90s style with tall, structured hair on top.
SaveHow to wear it now: Keep the sides faded and shape the top with a pick and sponge.
12. Mohawk
The 90s mohawk was a punk favourite. A softer faux hawk works for everyday wear today.
SaveHow to wear it now: Push the hair towards the centre with a matte wax.
13. Long Hair
Long, shoulder-length hair was a big 90s rock look.
SaveHow to wear it now: Keep it healthy with regular trims and a light conditioner.
14. Side-Part Comb-Over
A neat side part was the classic 90s office cut.
SaveHow to wear it now: Use a comb and a light pomade for a clean part.
15. Long Bowl Cut
A longer, curtained bowl cut was a popular skater style.
SaveHow to wear it now: Add layers to keep the length from looking flat.
16. Faded Undercut
The undercut with short sides and longer top had its roots in the 90s.
SaveHow to wear it now: Slick the top back or wear it messy.
17. Textured Fringe
A short, messy fringe was a cool, casual 90s look.
SaveHow to wear it now: Use a texturising powder at the roots.
18. Centre-Part Hair
A centre part with medium length was everywhere in the 90s.
SaveHow to wear it now: Tuck the sides behind the ears for a relaxed finish.
19. Mohawk with Shaved Designs
Shaved lines and patterns added personality to 90s fades and mohawks.
SaveHow to wear it now: Ask your barber for a simple line design that grows out cleanly.
20. Wavy Surfer Hair
Messy, beachy surfer hair was a laid-back 90s look.
SaveHow to wear it now: Scrunch in sea salt spray and let it air dry.
How to Wear 90s Hair Without Looking Dated
Go for texture
Modern versions use matte products and natural texture instead of shiny gel.
Clean up the sides
A fade or taper keeps retro cuts looking fresh.
Keep it subtle
Soft highlights and natural movement look better than exaggerated styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most popular 90s haircut for men?
Curtains are the most popular 90s haircut to make a comeback.
Are frosted tips still in style?
A softer version with subtle, blended highlights is popular again.
What hair products did men use in the 90s?
Shiny gel was the go-to product. Today, matte clay and paste give a more natural finish.
Final Thoughts
90s hairstyles are back with a modern twist. Try curtains, a textured crop or a grunge shag for an easy throwback.
For more ideas, see our short shaggy haircuts for men, messy hairstyles for men and hairstyles for men with square faces.
