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Remember when the 90’s were all about edgy cuts, vibrant personalities, and iconic red-carpet moments featuring legendary stars like Halle Berry, Nia Long short hair, and Toni Braxton short hair? Are you ready to channel that retro flair but with a modern 2025 twist? In this article, we’re diving into 28 different takes on the 90’s pixie cut—each style perfect for different face shapes, whether you’ve got an oval face, round face, square face, or even a chubby face. From curly textures to long top layers, these pixie hairstyles will keep you looking fresh for any photoshoot, everyday outfit, or glamorous event. Ready to rock a throwback look that’s still on-trend? Let’s explore these edgy, versatile ideas together.
The Grunge Revival Pixie
The Grunge Revival Pixie is all about embracing a slightly messy, lived-in texture reminiscent of the 90’s alternative scene. Think piecey layers with subtle bangs that frame the face, giving an effortless, rebellious vibe. This haircut works wonderfully on thin hair because the texturizing adds volume, while those with thick hair can style it with soft waves or a bit of natural curly texture to keep it from feeling too heavy. It’s an ideal look for someone with an oval face or a square face, as the choppy crown layers add height and balance. If you love a carefree aesthetic and want a nod to that edgy era, this might be your perfect pick.
For a natural, tousled look, consider using Redken’s Wind Blown 05 Dry Finishing Spray to create a weightless, piecey texture. It’s also important to keep the ends healthy with a leave-in conditioner like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In Product, which prevents split ends. When you feel like dialing up the edginess, grab a matte pomade such as Fatboy’s Perfect Putty for defining those layers and adding a bit of a rebellious twist. A quick tutorial on your favorite streaming channel can show you how to master that undone, grunge-inspired styling in minutes.
The Soft Spice Crop
Inspired by the softer side of 90’s pop icons, The Soft Spice Crop features short sides and a slightly longer top that can be swept to one side for a gentle, feminine look. The hair is often highlighted in warm caramel or honey hues, giving a flattering glow that suits a wide range of complexions, from fair to deep. This style is particularly flattering for a chubby face or a round face, as the longer top helps elongate the silhouette. If you’ve admired the sweet, playful vibes of that decade but want a more polished effect for 2025, this is your go-to.
Maintain the warmth and vibrancy of your highlights with a color-safe shampoo like Pureology Hydrate. To keep your crop soft and sleek, apply a lightweight smoothing cream like Moroccanoil Smoothing Lotion before blow-drying. To set the style, use a flexible hairspray (e.g., Kenra Professional Volume Spray 25) so you can easily change up your part or add wavy texture for variety—perfect for a last-minute photoshoot or special event.
The Asymmetrical Edge
The Asymmetrical Edge pixie pays homage to the bold, experimental spirit of 90’s fashion with a dramatic side sweep on one side and a tighter, tapered cut on the other. This contrast adds instant intrigue and works well for those with oval face or round face shapes, as the asymmetry can help visually lengthen the jawline. It’s a great choice if you’re seeking a statement look that still retains a chic silhouette. Add in a slight undercut for extra boldness, or keep it subtle for an office-friendly version.
To maintain the asymmetrical design, schedule regular trims every four weeks. A precision product like Bumble and bumble Sumoclay can help you define sections and keep them in place. For extra shine, finish with a light glossing spray like Oribe Shine Light Reflecting Spray. Whether you’re dressing up your outfit for a glam event or heading out for a casual night, this pixie style transitions seamlessly with a few styling adjustments.
The Feathered Fringe Throwback
Inspired by the feathered finishes of the late 90’s, The Feathered Fringe Throwback features soft, wispy bangs that blend seamlessly into side layers. It’s an excellent choice for anyone wanting to mask a square face or add softness to a round face, as the feathering creates a gentle frame. This cut works amazingly for both thin hair—where it adds volume—and thick hair—where it thins out bulk for a flowing effect. If you’re nostalgic for that dreamy, ethereal vibe, this cut will give you a refined take on the retro style.
Feathered cuts can look flat if not properly styled, so a volumizing mousse like Aveda Phomollient is your best friend. Keep the ends fresh with a weekly deep-conditioning treatment like Olaplex No. 8 for smoothness and shine. For day-to-day styling, focus on blow-drying with a round brush, lifting at the roots to maintain that airy, feathered effect, especially around the fringe.
The Layered Textured Pop
The Layered Textured Pop is a fun, energetic pixie featuring stacked layers on top that create a dynamic silhouette. Reminiscent of Nia Long short hair from classic 90’s films, this style can be elevated with subtle highlights or a bright pop of color. The variety of layers brings volume to thin hair, while strategic texturizing helps manage thick hair. It suits any face shape, though it’s especially flattering if you’re looking to add height to a chubby face or a round face.
To style, spritz a texturizing spray like Amika Un.Done Volume and Matte Texture Spray at the roots, then use a small flat iron to shape the layers if you prefer a sleek finish. For a tousled effect, simply air-dry or use a diffuser to encourage a hint of curly or wavy movement. Finish with a light pomade such as Davines This Is A Forming Pomade to define the ends without weighing the style down.
The Razor-Sharp Crop
The Razor-Sharp Crop leans into a sleek, polished look with super clean lines. Inspired by iconic 90’s runway models, it’s a short pixie with tapered sides and a precise, almost geometric top. This style looks great on an oval face or round face, as the sharp angles can help refine softer features. If you like a minimalist aesthetic but still want the edginess of a pixie, this cut is the perfect compromise.
Frequent trims are vital to preserve the crisp lines—aim for every three to four weeks. Use a smoothing serum like Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum before blow-drying to get that high-gloss finish. A small dab of TIGI Bed Head Wax Stick can help define edges around the crown and create piecey separation. If you’re planning a photoshoot, pair this crop with bold makeup for an unforgettable statement.
The Curly Kickback
If you’re blessed with naturally curly locks, The Curly Kickback offers a reminiscent nod to Halle Berry’s early film appearances but with a modern twist. This pixie keeps the sides short and showcases the curls on top. Perfect for a chubby face or an oval face, as it adds flattering height without overwhelming the features. You can even add a slight undercut to the sides for a bolder, fresh-from-the-90’s vibe.
To keep your curls bouncy and defined, use DevaCurl’s Ultra Defining Gel on damp hair and scrunch upwards. Avoid over-styling; let those ringlets take center stage. Refresh the look each morning by spritzing a water-and-leave-in mix, like Pattern’s Hydration Spray, to revive curls. Whether you’re off to a casual outing or filming a tutorial, this cut transforms easily with a bit of product and a diffuser.
The Neon Tips Pixie
The Neon Tips Pixie takes your standard pixie cut and brightens it up with bold, neon-colored ends—an homage to the rave culture of the late 90’s. The key is keeping the base color a natural shade (like brunette or blonde) and adding a bold streak of neon green, pink, or blue at the tips. This style is ideal for a statement maker who doesn’t shy away from color, and it suits thin hair or thick hair equally if you maintain the right length on top.
To keep those neon ends vibrant, use a color-depositing conditioner like Overtone. Focus on nourishing your hair with a mask like Olaplex No. 3 weekly, especially if you’ve lightened your tips first. For everyday styling, a lightweight cream such as Ouai’s Curl Crème can help keep your ends smooth so the color really pops. Pair it with a monochromatic outfit or go full color-block for a true head-turning effect.
The High-Shine Slick
For a polished, runway-ready vibe, The High-Shine Slick channels that glossy 90’s sophistication. Hair is cut short around the sides and back, then slicked close to the scalp on top with a high-shine product. This look is incredibly versatile and can be worn sleek for formal events or slightly tousled for a casual daytime aesthetic. It flatters a square face by softening angles, and for a round face, it adds a sleek, elongating effect.
Prep your hair with a shine-boosting shampoo like Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore, followed by a smoothing conditioner. While the hair is still damp, apply a high-shine pomade—Baxter of California Hard Water Pomade does the trick—combing it through for that glossy surface. If you’re capturing this look for a photoshoot, try pairing it with statement earrings to further accentuate your sleek silhouette.
The Short ‘n’ Shaggy
Borrowing elements from the iconic 90’s boy band era, The Short ‘n’ Shaggy features soft, tousled layers that produce a carefree and youthful vibe. This pixie is usually cut just above the ears, with layering across the crown to create a semi-messy silhouette. Suited to an oval face or round face, it’s a flexible style that can transition from day to night with minimal fuss.
Use a texturizing cream like Verb’s Sea Texture Cream on damp hair to encourage that “shaggy” look without frizz. If you prefer a bit more structure, a light hold spray like Kevin Murphy Session Spray Flex can provide control. Try adding a subtle wave with a small barrel curling iron for a wavy effect that pairs brilliantly with an effortless outfit or a more polished ensemble.
The Tapered Temple Shave
Edgy yet understated, The Tapered Temple Shave brings an undercut-like feel specifically at the temples, gradually blending into a longer top. This approach frames the face beautifully, especially if you have a chubby face or want to accentuate an oval face. It’s a subtle throwback to the shaved patches popularized in 90’s rock culture but refined for 2025.
Use a good set of clippers (Wahl Professional Cordless Clippers) for precision at the temple area. Keep your scalp hydrated with a lightweight oil like The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil. For daily styling, a styling clay (American Crew Molding Clay) ensures the top looks textured but controlled. Add a quick spritz of hairspray if you want your hair to last through a busy day or an impromptu tutorial filming session.
The Bob-Pixie Fusion
If you’re torn between the femininity of a curly bob and the edginess of a pixie, the Bob-Pixie Fusion could be your happy medium. This hybrid cut keeps the front and sides at around shoulder-length (or slightly shorter) while tapering the back up into a pixie shape. It’s perfect for those who want the freedom to style the front sections in wavy or curly textures while enjoying the low-maintenance nature of shorter hair at the back.
To style the Bob-Pixie Fusion, use a curl-enhancing product like Miss Jessie’s Jelly Soft Curls on the longer front pieces. Then, blow-dry the back with a round brush and finishing cream for a smooth finish. Consider a clarifying shampoo like Neutrogena Anti-Residue once a week to prevent buildup in the crown area. Add a hair oil like Ouai Hair Oil to the ends for sleekness—a must for that bouncy front.
The Retro Undercut
The Retro Undercut takes its cue from 90’s street style, where the crown hair is left longer, and the underneath sections are buzzed. This allows for a dramatic reveal when you tuck the top layers behind your ears or flip them to the side. It’s especially striking for thick hair since it removes bulk, but it can also work on thin hair if the top is layered carefully. A great option for those with a round face, as the undercut can help elongate the overall shape.
Keep the buzzed sections neat with a monthly trim using the Andis Master Cordless Clipper. Apply a scalp treatment like Briogeo Scalp Revival Charcoal + Tea Tree to prevent dryness. For the top section, a volumizing spray like Living Proof Full Dry Volume Blast helps achieve lift without weighing it down. Whether you’re rocking a casual street outfit or stepping into a formal setting, this style can adapt with a simple flick of the top layers.
The Wispy Baby Hair Emphasis
Back in the 90’s, baby hairs were often styled to accentuate the hairline, and this pixie cut does exactly that. The main length is short, but the hair around the temples and forehead is softened, creating wispy baby hair detail that frames the face delicately. Perfect for an oval face or square face, as these fine pieces around the hairline can soften strong features.
To style the baby hairs, use a small toothbrush or an edge brush with a holding gel like Ebin 24-Hour Edge Tamer. Keep the rest of the pixie moisturized with a light leave-in, such as SheaMoisture Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine Conditioner. For a finishing touch, a few spritzes of Tresemmé Micro Mist Hairspray ensures those wisps stay in place all day, whether you’re filming a tutorial or heading out on the town.
The Extreme Piecey Layers
Channeling the edgy, layered looks of the late 90’s rock scene, The Extreme Piecey Layers features pronounced, choppy sections that are heavily texturized for maximum impact. This style can be adapted to long or medium-length top layers to create a punk-inspired silhouette. It’s especially good for thick hair to remove bulk, but can also inject volume into thin hair with the right product. Ideal for those who love a dramatic, high-fashion edge.
A texturizing razor helps achieve those piecey chunks—ask your stylist to maintain sharp, deliberate angles. At home, work a texturizing clay like Hanz de Fuko Quicksand into damp hair, separating out individual sections. Finish with a light mist of Bumble and bumble Dryspun Texture Spray for that signature bedhead vibe. Pair it with a daring outfit and you’re ready to go from day to night effortlessly.
The Boyish Classic Pixie
Evoking memories of 90’s tomboy chic, The Boyish Classic Pixie is cut uniformly short all around, with just a hint of length on top for subtle styling options. The beauty of this cut lies in its simplicity—ideal for anyone who values a low-maintenance routine yet craves a statement look. This style suits a round face by adding gentle angles and is equally flattering on an oval face.
Because this cut is short, you’ll notice your scalp more. Use a lightweight scalp oil like Mielle Rosemary Mint Scalp & Hair Strengthening Oil to nourish the roots. For that just-rolled-out-of-bed charm, apply a small amount of texturizing paste (Garnier Fructis Style Matte and Messy Paste) and work it through the top. This cut is a breeze to maintain, making it perfect for busy mornings or a spontaneous tutorial on quick hair styling.
The Retro Flipped-Out Ends
Add a playful throwback to your pixie with flipped-out ends reminiscent of 90’s sitcom stars. The sides and back are neatly cropped, while the top and side layers are long enough to be flipped outward, creating a fun silhouette. Great for thin hair looking to gain volume or thick hair seeking a nostalgic twist. This style is especially flattering for a square face, as the flips can soften angular features.
To achieve that perfect flip, blow-dry with a small round brush, pulling the ends up and away from your face. A styling cream like Ouidad Whipped Curls works wonders in providing both hold and softness. To lock in your flipped-out shape, try Chi Enviro 54 Hairspray. Whether paired with a casual outfit or a business-ready suit, those kicked-up ends bring a hint of playful charm to your look.
The Playful Peekaboo Highlights
Peekaboo highlights add a subtle touch of color beneath the top layers of your pixie. In the 90’s, hidden pops of neon or vibrant shades were all the rage—and they’ve made a comeback in 2025. This style suits thick hair especially well, as the layers can hide and reveal the colored streaks. For thin hair, use fewer highlights but concentrate them near the front for a fun, dimensional effect.
Keep your peekaboo color vibrant by using a color-protecting masque like Joico K-PAK Color Therapy. Since the colored sections are often bleached first, a bonding treatment like Olaplex No. 3 is essential to maintain hair strength. A spritz of leave-in like It’s a 10 Miracle Leave-In can help detangle and protect when you want to show off those highlights in a photoshoot or an everyday style.
The Volumized Crown Chop
Drawing inspiration from Toni Braxton short hair looks in the 90’s, this pixie emphasizes height at the crown for an elegant, elongated shape. The sides and back are neatly tapered, focusing all the volume on top. This cut flatters a round face and a chubby face by creating a vertical balance, but also looks great on an oval face wanting a sophisticated silhouette.
For maximum volume, lift roots with a mousse like TRESemmé Thermal Creations Volumizing Mousse before blow-drying. Then, backcomb slightly at the crown and set with a medium-hold hairspray such as Kenra Volume Spray. Once or twice a week, treat your hair to a hydrating mask—Shea Moisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil—for softness and shine. This style pairs beautifully with both casual and formal hairstyles, depending on your outfit and occasion.
The Spiky Texture Throwback
Have some fun with The Spiky Texture Throwback, a nod to the 90’s punk-pop scene. This pixie features shorter sides, a longer top, and plenty of gel or wax to create spiky, gravity-defying strands. It’s a great option for those with thick hair who want a rebellious style, and it can also add edginess to thin hair if you use the right styling products. Great for a square face to add softness through playful spikes.
A strong-hold gel like Got2b Glued is your best friend for getting those spikes to stand up. Work it through damp hair, shape each spike, and then allow it to air-dry or use a diffuser. If you’re aiming for a bit less stiffness, swap to a medium-hold wax like Bed Head Manipulator for a more piecey effect. This style is all about confident styling, so experiment with the height and direction of your spikes until you find your personal flair.
The Half-Shaved Statement Pixie
If you want to push boundaries, The Half-Shaved Statement Pixie is a bold choice—one side is shaved close to the scalp while the other retains enough length for a pixie style. This daring design is great for making a strong impression and suits anyone willing to experiment. It can complement a round face by adding asymmetry, and it also plays well with an oval face that can carry off bold looks.
Because half of your scalp is exposed, keep the shaved side moisturized with a gentle lotion like Cantu Shea Butter Daily Oil Moisturizer. For the longer side, consider a styling paste like Ouai Matte Pomade to define texture. Regular visits to the barber or stylist (every two weeks) help maintain the sharpness of the shaved portion. This cut is perfect for a standout photoshoot or a night out where you want all eyes on you.
The Glam Rock Crop
Closing our list with a bang, The Glam Rock Crop combines heavy layering on top with sleek, tapered sides for a distinct 90’s rockstar appeal. Think big volume at the crown, possibly accentuated by a bright color or metallic streak. This style complements a square face or a chubby face by adding height and length on top, creating a more oval silhouette.
Boost volume with a root lifter like Redken Guts 10 before blow-drying with a round brush focused on the crown. If you opt for a metallic or bright streak, maintain the color with Davines Alchemic Shampoo and Conditioner in Silver or Copper, depending on your chosen hue. A flexible-hold hairspray like Sebastian Shaper allows you to keep the structure without losing that rock ‘n’ roll movement—perfect for an on-stage performance or a dramatic photoshoot.
Whether you’re reminiscing about the 90’s icons like Halle Berry or looking to create your own signature pixie cut moment, there’s a style here for every face shape—oval face, round face, square face, and chubby face—as well as every hair type, from thin hair to thick hair. Experiment with wavy, curly, or sleek textures, add bangs or keep them away, and don’t forget to coordinate your final look with the perfect outfit. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you find the ideal pixie for 2025. Have you tried any of these cuts or have a new idea in mind? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
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