20 Crimped Hair Ideas That Bring Back the Best of the ’90s
Close your eyes and think of the 1990s. The sound of a dial-up modem, the feel of butterfly clips, and the unmistakable, zig-zag texture of crimped hair. Once the signature of every pop star and teen movie extra, crimping took a backseat in the 2000s. But like all great trends, it’s back—and it’s better than ever. Today’s crimped hair isn’t about the all-over, frizzy helmet of decades past. It’s a nuanced, intentional, and utterly cool way to add volume, texture, and a dose of nostalgic flair to your look.
1. The Half-Up, Half-Crimped Crown
Ease into the trend with this wearable style. Simply crimp only the top section of your hair, from your part back to about your ears. Then, gather the crimped portion into a half-up ponytail or bun, leaving the bottom layers smooth or wavy. This gives incredible root volume and a cool, textured accent without committing to a full head of crimps.
2. Face-Framing Crimped Tendrils
Channel your inner Clueless extra with this delicate take. Isolate a few front sections around your face—think your curtain bangs or pieces near your temples—and give them a tight crimp. Blend them with the rest of your style, whether it’s down, in a ponytail, or an updo. It’s a subtle nod to the era that beautifully frames your features.
3. The Modern Crimped Ponytail
Elevate a basic ponytail from boring to breathtaking. Crimp all your hair before gathering it into a mid-height or high ponytail. The texture gives the pony unmatched body and visual interest. For a sleeker look, smooth the top section before securing it, letting the crimps explode from the base of the elastic. Add a scrunchie for maximum ‘90s points.
4. Crimped Ends on a Bob
Give a classic bob an edgy, textured finish. Apply the crimping iron only to the last two inches of your bob or lob. This creates a flippy, playful effect that’s reminiscent of punk and grunge styles but feels incredibly fresh. It works beautifully on both blunt and layered cuts.
5. The All-Over Statement Crimp
Go for the gold with the iconic, full-head crimp. The key to nailing this in 2024 is to start with second or third-day hair for less slip, use a heat protectant, and alternate the direction of your crimps for a more organic, less “perfect” look. Finish with a texturizing spray to separate the waves and embrace the glorious, voluminous result.
6. Crimped Space Buns
Double the fun by combining two ‘90s staples. Crimp your entire head of hair, then part it down the middle and create two high buns. The texture makes the buns look fuller, more whimsical, and effortlessly cool. Leave out some crimped baby hairs for an authentic touch.
7. Braided Crimped Accents
Incorporate crimped sections into your braids for unbelievable texture and grip. Try crimping a small section of hair before braiding it into a Dutch or French braid. Or, crimp your entire head and then braid it—the definition and detail in the braid will be stunning.
8. The Crimped Messy Bun
Never struggle to make a messy bun look full again. Crimped hair provides instant volume and that “lived-in” texture we all crave. Simply twist and pin your crimped hair into a low or high bun, pulling out pieces liberally. It will look artfully disheveled with zero effort.
9. Deep-Part Crimped Waves
For a more romantic, wave-like effect, use a wider-plate crimping iron. Create a deep side part and crimp your hair in vertical sections. Once finished, gently run your fingers through the hair to break up the pattern. You’ll get a gorgeous, uniform wave with incredible body that lasts for days.
10. Crimped Pigment Streaks
Take it to the next level by crimping only your colored streaks or money pieces. If you have blonde highlights, pastel streaks, or a bold front section, crimping them creates a dynamic, textured contrast against your base hair color. It’s a true statement look.
11. The Crimped Updo
Transform a formal updo with unexpected texture. Crimp your hair before twisting it into a chignon, Gibson tuck, or any elegant upstyle. The crimps provide exceptional grip for pins and add a fascinating tactile element that makes the style look expensive and editorial.
12. Micro-Crimped Baby Hairs
The ultimate detail for the trend enthusiast. Use a very small, fine crimping iron to crimp only your baby hairs along your hairline. Then, lay them down with gel or pomade. This hyper-nostalgic detail pays homage to the ‘90s and Y2K hair routines in the most subtle way.
13. Crimped Hair with Bandana
Pair your crimped texture with another ‘90s favorite: the bandana. Whether you wear it as a headband, tied under your hair, or as a scarf over a ponytail, the combination is undeniably cool and cohesive. The texture of the crimps plays beautifully against the fabric.
14. Root-Only Crimping for Volume
If you crave volume but dislike texture on your lengths, this is your solution. Focus the crimping iron only on the root area (the first 1-2 inches from your scalp). This lifts the hair at the base, creating lasting, teasy volume, while the rest of your hair remains smooth or styled as usual.
15. The Crimped Mullet
Embrace the edgy revival of the mullet by adding crimped texture. It works perfectly with the cut’s short-top, long-back structure. Crimping can add volume to the top and enhance the shaggy texture in the back, creating a true rock-and-roll silhouette.
16. Two-Tone Crimped Look
Part your hair down the middle and crimp only one side, leaving the other side smooth or in its natural state. This bold, asymmetrical look is a fashion-forward way to play with texture and makes a serious style statement.
17. Crimped Hair Accessorized with Clips
Butterfly clips and crimped hair are a match made in ‘90s heaven. After crimping, use an array of decorative mini clips to pin back sections or create patterns. The texture holds the clips in place better and makes the accessories pop.
18. Soft Crimped Curls
Blur the line between curls and crimps. Use a three-barrel waver or a wide crimper, and once you’ve finished, brush through the hair gently with a wide-tooth comb. This softens the sharp zig-zags into loose, voluminous curls with a unique, piece-y texture.
19. The Crimped Wet Look
Combine textures for a high-fashion finish. Crimp your hair as desired, then apply a strong-hold gel or glossing serum to slick down the top or sides, creating a wet-look finish. The contrast between the sleek, gelled sections and the dry, textured crimps is incredible.
20. Undone Crimped Shag
This is the ultimate modern interpretation. Start with a layered shag cut. Crimp your hair, focusing on the mid-lengths and ends. Then, shake it out, scrunch it, and break it up with your fingers. The result is a perfectly imperfect, rocker-chic mane with maximum movement and attitude.
How to Crimp Your Hair Like a Pro in 2024
Ready to create these styles? The technique has evolved. Always start with heat protectant spray on dry or mostly dry hair. For a lasting hold, work on second-day hair or use a texturizing spray. Section your hair cleanly. When crimping, alternate the direction of each section you clamp (up, down, up, down) for a less uniform, more natural texture. Don’t forget to let the hair cool completely before touching or brushing it out. Finish with a light-hold hairspray or a dab of serum on the ends to tame any frizz.
Embrace the Texture of Nostalgia
The return of crimped hair is more than just a trend cycle—it’s a celebration of texture, volume, and playful self-expression. Today’s approach allows you to customize the level of nostalgia, from a subtle hint to a full-blown time warp. The beauty of these 20 ideas lies in their versatility and their power to make a classic look feel excitingly new again. So, dig out that crimper, experiment with these styles, and wear your ‘90s inspiration with pride. The decade of dial-up and denim jackets is cheering you on.
