10 Iconic 90s Curly Hairstyles Black Women Made Famous (And How to Recreate Them!)
There’s something magical about 90s curly hairstyles Black women made legendary. From bold side parts to effortless bangs, that era gave us hair moments we still can’t get over—and honestly, we don’t want to. As a longtime beauty writer and natural hair enthusiast, I’ve spent countless hours deep-diving into vintage photos, hip hop music videos, and old-school hair commercials. And writing this blog post? Let’s just say it felt like flipping through my older cousin’s high school yearbook all over again—but with a twist of today’s DIY freedom.
Whether you're looking to relive that retro glam or experiment with something nostalgic, these 10 curly looks are sure to bring back all the feels—and then some. Ready to channel your inner 90s icon? Let’s go.
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1. The Side-Parted Spiral Curls
First up, the eternal favorite: side-parted spiral curls. Think Brandy in “Moesha” or Nia Long on the red carpet. This look was feminine, fierce, and framed the face perfectly.
To recreate it today:
- Start with clean, detangled hair.
- Use a curl-defining mousse or lightweight gel.
- Apply flexi rods or a curling wand to create soft spirals.
- Finish with a deep side part for that classic 90s feel.
This style works beautifully on natural hair, relaxed textures, or even with clip-ins. It’s a surefire way to channel your inner ‘it girl.’
2. The High Puff with a Bandana
If you want something quick, easy, and oh-so-90s, the high puff with a bandana is your go-to. This was a staple in the hip hop scene and perfect for short natural hair.
Here’s how:
- Brush your curls upward into a puff and secure with a hair tie.
- Wrap a printed bandana around the base or across the forehead.
- Let those curls shine on top!
It’s cute, sporty, and speaks volumes—even when you’re low on styling time.
3. The Curly Pixie Cut
No 90s list is complete without the pixie cut. Think Halle Berry's iconic look in “Boomerang” or Toni Braxton’s edgy glam. This short, textured cut exudes power and femininity in one.
You’ll need:
- A professional cut if you want to commit.
- Lightweight products to define curls.
- Optional: texturizer for tighter coils.
Want to test-drive this look without cutting your hair? Curly pixie wigs are a fun way to experiment!
4. Curly Bangs & Volume Galore
Back then, curly bangs weren’t just a trend—they were a statement. Women like Lisa Bonet and Cree Summer showed us that messy curls with bangs are both carefree and cool. Add in natural volume and you’ve got a Latina-meets-boho-chic aesthetic that still turns heads.
To recreate:
- Use a diffuser on damp curls to boost volume.
- Trim soft bangs to hit just above your brows.
- Add curl cream for separation and movement.
This look is perfect for day-to-night wear—and yes, it works well on both type 3 and 4 hair.
5. Curly Hair with Braided Front
One of my absolute favorites to write about! This style merges culture and creativity—a front braid or cornrow crown with the rest left in free-flowing curls. You might remember this look from Alicia Keys or Aaliyah.
Here’s how to achieve it:
- Braid the front two sections along your hairline.
- Use a curl enhancer on the remaining hair.
- Fluff out curls for volume and texture.
This one’s a hip hop favorite—edgy yet romantic.
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This cream is gold if you're aiming for defined yet touchable curls. It’s packed with shea butter and olive oil, perfect for moisturizing natural textures without weighing them down.
- Great for twist-outs, rod sets, or wash-and-gos.
- Smells amazing, leaves no flakes.
- Ideal for reviving vintage styles with a modern finish.
Try Aunt Jackie’s Curl La La here on Amazon and bring your 90s hair goals to life!
6. Big Defined Curls with a Middle Part
Middle parts were everything in the 90s. When paired with big, bouncy curls, it gave a supermodel meets soul goddess vibe. This style is flattering on most face shapes and screams "glam."
To recreate:
- Stretch your curls with braids or twists overnight.
- Apply curl-enhancing mousse.
- Part straight down the middle for symmetry.
It’s the perfect mix of vintage drama and modern edge.
7. Half-Up Curly Ponytail with a Scrunchie
If you were alive in the 90s, you probably owned a velvet scrunchie (or ten). This half-up ponytail is super easy and super cute.
To get the look:
- Pull the top half of your curls into a ponytail.
- Secure with a statement scrunchie.
- Leave a few tendrils out for a playful finish.
Bonus points if you match your scrunchie to your outfit. Trust me—it’s a vibe.
Amazon Hair Tool Pick #2: Conair InfinitiPRO Curling Wand
To get that spiral curl perfection, a tapered wand like this one is your best friend.
- Tourmaline ceramic reduces frizz and adds shine.
- Heats up quickly with adjustable settings.
- Great for creating long-lasting 90s curls with bounce.
Shop the Conair InfinitiPRO Curling Wand here on Amazon and recreate those throwback spirals effortlessly.
8. Messy Curly Bun with Tendrils
This messy bun isn’t your basic gym updo. In the 90s, Black women elevated it with face-framing tendrils, adding softness and sensuality.
To style:
- Gather curls loosely at the crown.
- Pin into a relaxed bun.
- Curl 2-4 face tendrils using a small barrel iron.
Great for romantic dates, brunch, or days you just want to feel fabulous.
9. Braided Cornrows into Curls
A perfect protective-meets-stylish hybrid, this one blends tight cornrows in the front with voluminous curls at the back. Think Lauryn Hill, Destiny’s Child, or TLC.
To recreate:
- Cornrow front sections, leave the rest free.
- Define curls with a custard or curl jelly.
- Optional: Add gold hair cuffs for extra 90s glam.
This look is rich in hip hop heritage and undeniably bold.
Amazon Must-Have #3: TGIN Rose Hydrating Curl Cream
After styling, you'll want to keep your curls hydrated and bouncy. This curl cream is one of my daily go-tos.
- Infused with rose water and aloe to boost shine.
- Revives second or third-day curls.
- Smells divine and adds instant softness.
Get the TGIN Rose Water Curl here on Amazon and keep your curls poppin' all week long!
10. The Wet-Look Jerry Curl Revival
Don’t laugh—the Jerry Curl is making a vintage comeback. Modern versions are more refined, with better products and less drip (thank goodness).
Recreate it like this:
- Apply curl activator or leave-in conditioner generously.
- Use a diffuser to set the curls without frizz.
- Finish with a shine spray or light hold gel.
Great for both Latina and Black textures, this look is proof that everything old really does become new again.
Blending the Old and the New
Now that you’ve got the styles, let’s talk about how to make them work for today:
- Don’t be afraid to mix 90s staples with modern accessories (like satin-lined headbands or edge control gels).
- Natural hair routines have evolved—embrace protective styles and deep conditioning.
- Use heat sparingly and prioritize hydration.
Whether you're throwing it back for a themed event or adding 90s flair to your everyday life, these styles aren’t just looks—they’re legacy.
Final Thoughts
Writing this blog post was like taking a trip through my childhood hair memories—only now with the knowledge (and Amazon cart) to do it better. The beauty of these 90s curly hairstyles Black women made iconic is that they were never just about trends—they were about identity, pride, and culture.
And now? They’re back, more powerful than ever, and ready for a new generation of Black and Latina women to claim them.
So… which one are you rocking first?
The bandana puff? The curly pixie? Or that throwback braided curl combo?