The Comeback Of 90s Pigtails: How To Rock This Retro Style

There's a certain magic about the 1990s, isn't there? It's a decade that, in some respects, just keeps giving us fresh inspiration, especially when it comes to style. And honestly, one of the most recognizable hair trends from that time, the classic 90s pigtails, is having a real moment right now. You see them everywhere, from high fashion runways to the everyday street, and it's pretty clear why they're so loved.

The nineties, you know, were a time of huge shifts. We saw the internet begin to rise, and culture, technology, and how we lived changed so very quickly. This era, stretching from January 1, 1990, to December 31, 1999, was packed with iconic moments, music that still fills our playlists, and fashion that's, well, cool once again. It’s almost like the past is always finding a way back into our present, isn't it?

So, if you're looking to add a little bit of that fun, playful, and distinctly 90s vibe to your own look, then getting to know all about 90s pigtails is a really good place to start. We're going to explore what made them so popular back then and how you can easily bring this beloved hairstyle into your life today, making it totally yours. It’s a great way to show off a bit of that classic flair.

Table of Contents

• The Enduring Charm of 90s Pigtails
• Why the 90s Are Back in Style
• Different Kinds of 90s Pigtails
  • High Pigtails: The Classic Look
  • Space Buns: A Playful Twist
  • Low and Loose Pigtails: Effortless Cool
  • Braided Pigtails: Adding Texture
• Getting the 90s Pigtail Look: A Simple Guide
  • What You'll Need
  • Step-by-Step for High Pigtails
  • Tips for Making Them Last
• Who Rocked 90s Pigtails Best?
• Pairing Your Pigtails with 90s Fashion
• Frequently Asked Questions About 90s Pigtails

The Enduring Charm of 90s Pigtails

The appeal of 90s pigtails, it seems, just doesn't fade. This hairstyle is more than just two bunches of hair; it's a symbol of a particular kind of youthful energy and a bit of a rebellious spirit. Back in the day, they were everywhere, worn by pop stars and everyday folks alike, showing a real sense of fun and individuality. They are, you know, pretty versatile too.

What makes them so special, you might wonder? Well, for one thing, they offer a very simple way to look put-together yet also super casual. They can be neat and tidy, or loose and messy, depending on the vibe you're going for. This kind of flexibility, I mean, really helped them become a favorite for so many different people and occasions. It’s just that easy to change them up.

Today, this classic look is experiencing a huge surge in popularity. People are rediscovering its playful charm and how easily it fits into current fashion trends. It’s a bit of a nod to the past, but with a fresh, modern spin, which is pretty cool. You see, fashion tends to cycle, and the 90s are definitely back in the spotlight right now, bringing these beloved pigtails with them.

Why the 90s Are Back in Style

It's fascinating, isn't it, how trends from less than twenty years ago are suddenly "cool" again? The 90s, as a matter of fact, were a truly unique time, marked by rapid changes in technology, the economy, and culture. We saw the internet begin to take hold, and music, movies, and TV shows created a very distinct cultural landscape. It was a time of big shifts, honestly.

This decade gave us some amazing music, from TLC and the Backstreet Boys to Destiny's Child, *NSYNC, Mariah Carey, Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, and Jennifer Lopez, just to name a few. We were all breaking out our Tamagotchis and listening to hits by the Spice Girls and The Notorious B.I.G. This constant flow of cool stuff, you know, created a lot of fond memories for many.

Now, we're seeing these 90s trends pop up everywhere – on the catwalks, on the street, and in stores. It's a wave of nostalgia, to be honest, for a time that felt simpler yet was incredibly dynamic. People are finding joy in reliving that era, whether it's through music playlists filled with 90s classics or by trying out the iconic fashion and hairstyles, like the pigtails we're talking about. It’s pretty clear why this decade holds such a special place for so many.

Different Kinds of 90s Pigtails

When you think of 90s pigtails, you might picture one specific look, but actually, there were several popular ways to wear them. Each style had its own little personality, allowing people to express themselves in different ways. It’s not just one look, you know, but a whole range of possibilities.

High Pigtails: The Classic Look

This is probably the most iconic version. Think of pop stars like Britney Spears or the Spice Girls, especially Baby Spice, Emma Bunton. These pigtails sit high on the head, often near the crown, giving a really playful and energetic feel. They are, you know, very recognizable.

They could be super sleek and neat, or a little bit messy with some strands escaping, which actually added to their charm. Sometimes, people would leave a few face-framing pieces out, or add some colorful hair ties or scrunchies. This style, you know, just screams 90s fun.

Space Buns: A Playful Twist

While not strictly "pigtails" in the traditional sense, space buns were a very popular variation that carried the same spirit. Instead of letting the hair hang down, it was twisted into two neat buns on either side of the head, usually high up. This look, you know, was a bit more adventurous.

They offered a futuristic yet still very playful vibe, often seen on ravers and pop culture icons. They were a bit of a statement, and you could add glitter or other fun accessories to them. It’s almost like they were made for dancing, isn’t that right?

Low and Loose Pigtails: Effortless Cool

For a more laid-back or slightly edgy feel, low pigtails were a good choice. These sat closer to the nape of the neck, often styled with a very relaxed, undone look. They had a kind of effortless cool about them, to be honest.

Sometimes, people would pull out wispy pieces around the face to give it a softer, more natural appearance. This style was less about being bubbly and more about a casual, understated charm. It’s a bit like you just threw your hair up, but it looks really good.

Braided Pigtails: Adding Texture

Braids were also a big part of 90s hair, and combining them with pigtails created another popular look. Whether it was two simple French braids starting from the top of the head or just braiding the ends of high pigtails, this added a nice bit of texture and interest. You know, it just gave it a little extra something.

This style could look quite sporty or, depending on how neat the braids were, a bit more polished. It was a good way to keep hair out of the face while still showing off a fun, youthful style. It's a pretty practical option, actually, for active days.

Getting the 90s Pigtail Look: A Simple Guide

Ready to try out this iconic hairstyle for yourself? Good news: 90s pigtails are surprisingly easy to create, even if you're not a hair expert. You don't need a ton of fancy tools or products, which is pretty great. We'll walk you through it, so you can rock this look today.

What You'll Need

• A comb or brush for parting your hair.
• Two hair ties or scrunchies (colorful ones for that extra 90s flair!).
• A mirror, of course.
• Optional: Hair gel or pomade for sleekness, hairspray for hold, or a few bobby pins for stray pieces.

Step-by-Step for High Pigtails

1. Start with dry hair: This style works best on dry hair, whether it's freshly washed or a day old.
2. Part your hair: Using your comb, create a clean part down the middle of your head, from your forehead all the way to the nape of your neck. This is, you know, a very important step for balance.
3. Gather the first section: Pick up one side of your hair. Decide how high you want your pigtail to sit. For the classic 90s look, aim for high on the crown of your head, near your ears.
4. Secure the first pigtail: Hold the gathered hair firmly and use one of your hair ties or scrunchies to secure it. Wrap it around a few times until it feels snug. Make sure it's tight enough to stay put but not so tight it pulls your scalp. You want it to be comfy, actually.
5. Repeat on the other side: Now, gather the hair on the second side of your head. Try to make sure it's at the same height as your first pigtail for a balanced look. This can take a little practice, honestly.
6. Secure the second pigtail: Use your second hair tie or scrunchie to secure this section. Double-check in the mirror to make sure both pigtails are even. It’s a bit about symmetry, you know.
7. Adjust and finish: You can gently tug on the pigtails to make them look fuller, or smooth down any flyaways with a bit of gel or hairspray. If you want, pull out a few face-framing pieces for a softer look. And just like that, you're ready!

Tips for Making Them Last

To keep your 90s pigtails looking great all day, there are a few simple tricks you can use. First, if your hair tends to slip, a little bit of hairspray before you tie them up can really help. Just a light mist, you know, can make a difference.

For a super sleek look, especially if you have frizz, a touch of hair gel or pomade along your part and hairline can smooth things out. And if you’re planning a lot of movement, like dancing to your favorite 90s hits, consider using stronger hair ties or doubling up on them. It’s pretty simple to keep them looking fresh.

Who Rocked 90s Pigtails Best?

The 90s pigtail trend was undeniably fueled by some of the biggest names in music and entertainment. These stars didn't just wear the style; they made it a part of their iconic image, influencing countless fans to try it out themselves. You know, they really set the standard.

Of course, the **Spice Girls**, especially Emma Bunton, known as Baby Spice, were huge ambassadors for high pigtails. Her sweet, playful image was often completed with two bouncy bunches, sometimes with colorful bobbles. She, like, really owned the look.

**Britney Spears** also famously sported pigtails, often in her early music videos, which helped cement their status as a symbol of youthful pop culture. Her looks, you know, were always so fresh and fun.

Beyond pop stars, the style appeared in movies and TV shows, making it a truly widespread phenomenon. It was a simple yet effective way to show off a fun, carefree attitude, and it became a signature look for many. You could say it was a bit of a cultural staple.

Pairing Your Pigtails with 90s Fashion

So, you've got your 90s pigtails looking perfect. Now, how do you complete the whole throwback vibe? The great thing about 90s fashion is its mix of casual comfort and bold statements, and your pigtails will fit right in. It’s pretty easy to create a full look.

Think about some of the other trends that are back: oversized denim jackets, slip dresses layered over t-shirts, chunky platform shoes, and crop tops. A pair of high pigtails would look fantastic with a simple graphic tee and some baggy jeans, giving off that effortless, cool-kid feel. Or, you know, try a plaid skirt for a bit of a schoolgirl vibe.

For a more playful look, pair your pigtails with a bright, colorful outfit, maybe even some neon accents. Don't forget the accessories! Chokers, butterfly clips, and scrunchies (especially velvet ones!) are all classic 90s additions that will really tie your whole outfit together. You can even break out your Tamagotchis for a truly authentic touch, honestly. It’s all about having fun with it.

To really get into the spirit, you could even check out some 90s music history and build a playlist. Pimpt eure Urlaubsplaylist mit euren liebsten 90s Songs! Discover the 90s' top 100 hits and relive the decade's finest with a handpicked playlist of iconic songs. Sagt uns, welchen 90er Sound ihr am meisten feiert und votet über unsere social media Kanäle eure Lieblingstracks ins Programm. This is, you know, a great way to fully immerse yourself in the era. You can add the songs to your playlist using Muzal, which is pretty handy. Learn more about 90s nostalgia on our site, and link to this page 90s music playlist.

Frequently Asked Questions About 90s Pigtails

People often have questions about 90s pigtails, especially since they're so popular again. Here are some common things people wonder about this classic hairstyle.

What are 90s pigtails called?

While "pigtails" is the most common name, the high, bouncy style often seen in the 90s was sometimes called "high pigtails" or simply "two ponytails." When they were twisted into buns, they became known as "space buns." It's just a matter of how they are styled, you know.

How do you do 90s pigtails?

It's pretty straightforward! You start by parting your hair down the middle from front to back. Then, you gather each side of your hair high up on your head, near your ears, and secure them with hair ties or scrunchies. You can smooth them out or leave them a bit messy, depending on your preference. It’s really that simple, honestly.

Who popularized pigtails in the 90s?

Many celebrities helped make 90s pigtails a huge trend. The **Spice Girls**, especially Emma Bunton (Baby Spice), were incredibly influential. **Britney Spears** also famously wore pigtails in her early career, making them a signature look for pop music fans. They were, you know, just everywhere.