How to Get the Ultimate ‘90s Blowout: Volume, Technique, and Tips
Learn the secrets to achieving long-lasting, supermodel-worthy '90s blowout hair with pro tips, products, and easy step-by-step guidance.
The ‘90s Blowout Revival: Why Volume Is Back
If you’ve scrolled through social feeds or tuned into recent fashion runways, you know big, bouncy hair is having an undeniable revival. From Christian Cowan’s dramatic volume shows to the everyday Instagram feed, the iconic ‘90s blowout—defined by high shine, body, and unapologetic movement—is everywhere again. Having ruled supermodel runways with stars like Claudia Schiffer, Cindy Crawford, and Veronica Webb, this classic style is front and center in 2025’s top hair trends.
Celebrity stylists, including Justine Marjan (whose clientele boasts names like Khloe Kardashian and Hailey Bieber), confirm the shift: after years of understated, natural looks, dramatic blowouts are back to stay, with volume as a non-negotiable. Larger-than-life hair is a statement, offering a “rich energy vibe” and a palpable sense of glamour that many have missed since the rise of sleek ponytails and air-dried waves.
What Is a ‘90s Blowout? Key Characteristics
The ‘90s blowout is all about voluminous, fluffy, and shiny hair that looks polished yet effortless. Rather than stiff curls or pin-straight strands, this style sits right in the middle, giving hair:
- Lift at the roots
- Soft, bouncy curls or waves that move naturally
- Shine and a smooth finish
- Touchability—no crunchy or overly sticky textures
- A look that works with both middle and side partings
It’s a timeless style that channels the supermodel era, delivering a healthy, full look ideal for most hair lengths and types.
Why Is Big Hair Trending Again?
Post-pandemic, stylists have noted a decisive swing away from “undone,” natural looks toward bigger, more dramatic styles. As Marjan notes, “Volume will definitely be at the forefront of hairstyles in 2025.” The resurgence is visible not just in media but also via product launches (mousses, root sprays, round brushes) and styling devices tailored to help everyone access model-level blowouts at home.
The Essentials: Products and Tools for the Perfect ‘90s Blowout
To achieve the most luscious, long-lasting blowout, assembling the right kit is key. Here are the main categories you’ll need:
- Volumizing Mousse: Invigorates roots and gives hold without a crispy feel.
- Round Brush: Crucial for smoothing and adding bend or bounce. Choose ceramic or boar bristle for best slip and lift.
- Blow Dryer: A good nozzle ensures targeted drying. Attachments like the Dyson Airwrap or Shark FlexStyle can simplify the process, especially for beginners.
- Curling Iron: For long-lasting, defined curls, opt for a 1″ or slightly smaller barrel for fine hair. Switch curl directions for a natural finish.
- Large Hot Rollers (optional): Boosts maximum body and helps set curls with volume.
- Flexible Hold Hairspray: Keeps everything in place without stiffness.
- Texturizing or Grit Spray: Adds extra “grip” to help styles hold after drying.
Recommended Products (As Used by Pros)
- Tresemme Total Volume Mousse: Adds hold and root lift, but remains soft and pliable.
- GHD Curve Soft Curl Iron: Ideal for creating long-lasting big curls or waves.
- Heat Protectant Spray: Always essential when hot tools are involved.
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Step-by-Step: How to Do a Classic ‘90s Blowout
Ready for supermodel hair? Here’s a pro-approved process to help you nail the look at home:
Prep Your Hair
Start with clean, towel-dried hair. For optimal lift, apply a volumizing mousse throughout, focusing on roots. This primes hair for hold and structure during styling.
Begin Blow-Drying with a Round Brush
Optional: For ease, use a blowdry brush attachment (like on the Dyson, if preferred). Section your hair and blow dry while using the round brush to lift roots and curve the ends away from your face. Focus on maximum volume at the crown. Dry each section completely to avoid flatness later.
Add Texture to Dry Hair
Once dry, scrunch another round of mousse or texturizer into your hair. This adds grit and texture, helping the hair hold body and style for longer—especially for fine hair types. Blow-dry this in briefly for extra lift.
Curl for Lasting Volume
Use a 1-inch curling iron (or slightly smaller for fine hair) to curl hair in alternating directions, which creates a fuller, more natural effect. Lift curls from the root and hold each section for several seconds, pointing curls away from the face to open up your features.
Set the Style
If you prefer, use large hot rollers after curling. Let them sit to cool, then remove and gently shake with fingers. Flip your hair over to loosen up and achieve big movement. Finish with a flexible hold hairspray.
Customize Your Part and Finish
Choose a center part for a classic ‘90s look or a deep side part for extra drama. For additional volume, gently backcomb the roots. Touch up any areas with a curling iron as needed, then smooth the surface with a brush or your fingers.
How to Make Your Blowout Last (Even on Fine or Flat Hair)
- Double Layer Your Products: Use mousse at both the wet and dry stages.
- Use Texture Sprays Strategically: Especially around the roots and crown.
- Finish with Hairspray: Spray from a distance to avoid crunch, and scrunch up with hands for movement.
- Refresh Volume on Day Two: Flip hair upside down and blast the roots with a warm dryer or a touch more texturizing product.
- Sleep with Your Hair Loosely Clipped: Prevents flattening.
Switch Up Your Look: Half-Up Styles and Accessory Tips
The ‘90s style is versatile and can be easily personalized:
- Half-up Braids: Pull back your bangs or face-framing sections and secure with clips or ribbons for a playful take.
- Big Hair Bows & Barrettes: Accent your style with statement accessories for a full ‘90s vibe.
- Face-Framing Tendrils: Leave a few curled pieces loose at the front to soften the look.
How to Adapt the ‘90s Blowout for Your Hair Type
| Hair Type | Key Tips |
|---|---|
| Fine/Flat |
|
| Thick/Coarse |
|
| Wavy/Curly |
|
| Short Hair |
|
Bonus: Celebrity Insider Advice
Expert stylists like Marjan attribute the blowout’s longevity to working in key phases (mousse to lock in structure, products for grip, heat to set) and recommend alternating curl directions for a more natural, “lived-in” result. Her top pro tips?
- Clamp curling iron at the root, not just ends, for fuller body.
- Apply dry mousse for added “grit” after initial blow dry.
- Let hair cool fully before brushing out curls for maximum volume retention.
- Re-style or refresh on day two with a light blast of heat and texturizer.
Remember: Healthy hair always styles best. Use heat protectants and avoid excess heat where unnecessary for best long-term results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I get my ‘90s blowout to last longer?
A: Layer your styling products (especially mousse and texturizer), use a smaller curling barrel for tighter curls, and always let your hair cool before brushing out the style. Refresh with root spray or by flipping your hair after the first night.
Q: What size round brush is best for a ‘90s blowout?
A: Opt for a medium or large round brush, depending on your hair length. Use ceramic for heat control or boar bristle for maximum shine and grip at the roots.
Q: Will a ‘90s blowout work on naturally curly or textured hair?
A: Absolutely! Begin by roughly blow-drying or diffusing your hair, then use a smoothing brush before round-brushing. Fine-tuning with curlers or a curling iron can define and shape your finished style.
Q: Can I do a ‘90s blowout without heat styling?
A: For less heat, use large Velcro or foam rollers while your hair is damp, let them air-dry, then set with a light mist of hairspray. Results won’t be as dramatic but still add volume and bounce.
Q: What’s the best way to finish and polish my blowout?
A: Always seal the deal with a lightweight, flexible hold hairspray. For extra shine, add a spritz of gloss or smoothing serum to the ends.
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Volume
The ‘90s blowout is more than a throwback; it’s a statement of bold beauty and effort. With the right approach, anyone can recreate this iconic look—soft, touchable, larger-than-life volume—at home or with a stylist. The era of big hair is back, so break out your brushes, invest in a high-quality mousse, and get ready to turn heads all over again.
References
- https://www.cliphair.com/blogs/hair-blog/the-90s-blowout-is-back-how-to-get-fluffy-hair-like-clueless-cher
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/beauty/a63116776/90s-hair-blowout/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6A1lsI3vY1E
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/celebs/a64178916/hailee-steinfeld-nexxus-hair-interview/
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