Bobs and bixies may be hogging the headlines but longer hair isn’t going away for summer. It’s just taking a fresher, lighter turn, with the return of a nostalgic trend injects lift and youth into mature, fine hair. Say hello (again) to 90s layers.
Take a look at the full and healthy hairstyles seen on stars like Cat Deeley, Jodie Comer, Penny Lancaster, Holly Willoughby and Sienna Miller, and you’ll understand exactly why we’re falling for the layered look all over again. It’s a trend that’s everywhere right now, and for good reason, confirms Jason Collier, celebrity hairstylist, founder of Studio23 and Key Opinion Leader at Jerome Russell Bblonde.
Here’s the expert guide on the new 90s revival, and how to get the look.
What exactly are 90s layers?
90s layers are characterised by soft, blended layers throughout the hair that create shape, bounce and body. ‘Unlike some of the choppier layered cuts we've seen in more recent years, 90s layers are designed to flow seamlessly into one another,’ explains Jason.
It's a look that started with 'The Rachel' and Jennifer Aniston in her Friends era, and has now softened into a less structured version which Jen continues to epitomise today. Fellow 90s icon Cindy Crawford is a fellow champion of the style's timeless evolution. 'It's hair that looks full, healthy and incredibly wearable,' says Jason.
How do 90s layers flatter mature hair?
As Jason explains, 90s layers strategically remove weight from the hair. ‘This allows the hair to move more naturally while creating lift and volume in all the right places. For mature hair, this can be particularly beneficial as hair often becomes finer or loses some of its natural body over time. Soft layers help create the appearance of fuller, healthier hair by adding dimension and movement, while preventing the hair from looking flat or heavy around the face.’
Why are 90s layers seeing such a big revival right now?
We're seeing a huge shift away from structured styles towards hair that feels effortless, healthy and luxurious, Jason tells us. ‘The 90s aesthetic continues to dominate fashion and beauty trends, but these layers also offer something practical. They're incredibly flattering and versatile. Social media has introduced a new generation to iconic 90s beauty looks, while women who originally wore the trend are rediscovering just how timeless it is.’
What makes this style so flattering for mature women?
‘One of the reasons 90s layers work so beautifully on women over 40 is that they bring softness and lift to the face,’ says Jason. ‘The face-framing pieces can draw attention to the eyes and cheekbones, while the added volume through the crown and lengths creates a more youthful silhouette. The movement in the cut prevents the hair from appearing too heavy or severe, making it incredibly flattering and versatile.’
Are there any face shapes or hair types that suit 90s layers best?
The beauty of this style is how adaptable it is. ‘It works particularly well on medium to thick hair because the layers help remove excess weight, but it can also be tailored for finer hair to create the illusion of more volume,’ Jason says. ‘Face-framing layers can be customised to suit almost any face shape. Oval faces naturally suit this look, while longer layers can help elongate rounder faces and softer layers around the cheekbones can beautifully balance square or heart-shaped features.'
What should you ask your stylist for?
‘If you're looking to recreate 90s-inspired layers like Cat Deeley's latest style, ask for long, soft, blended layers with face-framing pieces that start around the cheekbones or jawline,’ advise Jason. ‘The key is movement and softness rather than obvious, disconnected layers. Bringing a reference image is always the best approach, as it helps your stylist tailor the cut to your hair type and face shape.’
How can I style 90s layers?
It’s all down to great products, says Jason. ‘To achieve that signature 90s-inspired finish, start with a volumising mousse, like the BStyled Thickening Hair Mousse, or blow-dry spray on damp hair.
Jerome Russell BStyled Thickening Hair Mousse
'Blow-dry using a large round brush, lifting the roots and directing the front sections away from the face to create that soft, sweeping shape. For extra bounce, use velcro rollers on the crown and front sections while the hair cools. Finish with a lightweight texture spray or flexible hairspray to maintain movement and
