8 Outdated Hairstyles That Are Suddenly Cool Again

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Did someone mention side parting?

You think old beauty trends are really in the past now and are only fading away, but then they unexpectedly come back, appearing just around the corner.

It seemed like just a vague recollection stuck in the "nostalgia" file, but now Cindy Crawford's signature hairstyle has become one of the most sought-after ways to style your hair.

Things like fashion and beauty have a way of doing that, and to be honest, it's kind of nice to meet up with old friends again. We asked professional stylists about the once "outdated" hairstyles that are officially popular again, and here are their favorites. Maybe one of these will inspire your next hairstyle change?

The Top 8 Hair Trends You'll Be Seeing Everywhere in 2025

Meet the Experts

• Hayah Beauty
• Glossed Finishing Studio
• Love Lane Salon

1. The French Roll

Co-owner of Hayah Beauty says, "This style—once a staple during the 1990s—has made its way back into pop culture."

"Cindy Crawford embodies the classic 'bombshell' style.

This look is primarily about enhancing the blowout—focus heavily on volumizing products—but asking your stylist for layers can help perfect the look.

3. Crimped Hair

Don't worry if you got rid of your crimper a while back – just grab a new one or use one of your other hot tools to get a similar look. (For instance, moving a flat iron back and forth can give your hair a trendy crimped appearance.) “This fun and adaptable [styling technique] adds volume and dimension to any hair type and can be achieved with less holding products than before," says Peace.

4. Shags

It's back in a unique and awesome way. Made famous in the "70s and again in the "90s, it's here for round three.

The style has choppy layers with feathered ends, often paired with curtain bangs," says Kristina Maccaro, a professional stylist and owner of Love Lane Salon. "The shag is making a splash again because of its super relaxed, undone look that goes along with the latest trends that focus on natural textures, hair that doesn't need a lot of styling, and easy styles that don't take much work.

She notes that the shag style of today is a departure from the voluminous, teased, and over-sprayed look of the past. The modern shag is softer and tailored to fit your facial features and hair type. Think of Billie Eilish, Miley Cyrus, and Jenna Ortega.

5. The ‘Rachel’

Rachel Green's hairstyle, known as "The Rachel," is an iconic look that's self-sufficient. We're not surprised it's making a comeback, especially since '90s nostalgia is currently trending.

It's the perfect haircut," Johnson says. "I think it fell out of style mainly because too many people got it. It really complements people's faces, making most face shapes and hair types look great. You can pull it off in a variety of hair lengths, and it tends to flatter most people, except those with very round faces.

6. Spiky Updos

The early 2000s saw a rise in messy, spiky up-dos, often featuring loose strands - think Gwen Stefani's iconic style. If you loved this look back then, or missed out, you're in luck. "Today’s carefree attitude towards beauty is reflected in this playful style," Maccaro notes. "This updated version incorporates texture sprays and softer spikes to create a stylish look that's effortless and intentional, rather than a stiff, over-gelled vibe."

7. Perms

They had largely fallen out of popularity after becoming a phenomenon in the '80s and '90s, but Johnson reports that Moxie has officially begun its comeback.

People with thinner hair often wish they had the fullness and volume that curly hair brings. Now that we know how to care for curly hair in a healthy manner, the results are greatly improved since the 1980s," she explains. "A perm allows you to choose the type of curl you want. Additionally, there are products available to make your curls even more appealing—no more crunchy texture—and they're now gentler on your hair so they don't cause as much damage.

8. The Side Part

It seems like someone must have slipped into a private bathroom and whispered, "side part, side part, side part," because what was unpopular just a few years ago has now regained its popularity.

After years of middle parts being super popular, side parts are making a comeback as a retro nod to the Y2K style era," says Maccaro. "The updated version is really versatile, going from deep side parts for glamorous looks to more laid-back side parts for everyday wear. It pairs well with sleek, straight hair or wavy, textured styles and provides a fresh alternative to symmetrical hairstyles.

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