While the pixie cut wasn’t new in the 90s, it was a style that obtained a certain je ne sais quoi throughout the decade. Both edgy and glamorous, this was not the demure pixie of Mia Farrow circa Rosemary’s Baby or the sensational slicked-back variety made famous by Josephine Baker.

Instead, this was the power pixie, as seen on Toni Braxton, Meg Ryan and Drew Barrymore. With its choppy, versatile fringe and careful shaping around the face and neck, this ultra-short cut still remains hyper-feminine. 

The good news? It’s making a major comeback, thanks to the likes of Emma Stone and Anok Yai donning the ‘do on the 2025 Oscars red carpet. 

As Eugene Smith, senior stylist at John Frieda salons, says, the trend is coming back in a big way.

“Much like the bob, the short pixie was a key part of the culture during that time, with celebs like Winona Ryder and Halle Berry standing out from the rest and becoming known for their short hair,” he says. “And so, with the resurgence of nostalgic 90s style – and its major impact on both fashion and hair – it’s no surprise that the pixie cut has made a comeback.”

So if you’re feeling inspired to follow in the footsteps Zoë Kravitz, who really does wear short hair so incredibly well, or maybe Florence Pugh or Jourdan Dunn, who debuted her shorter style earlier this year, then keep reading. We’ve covered everything you need to know before booking your appointment and what to ask your stylist for.

Does the 90s power pixie suit any face shapes in particular?

Smith says: “The beauty of the pixie is that it can be modified and tweaked to suit any face shape. It’s more about your personal style than face shape. The pixie is a bold beauty statement that’s all about owning it.”

What should you ask your stylist for?

“Hairdressers are visual people,” Smith says. “So you should go in with photos of different types of pixie haircuts. Different hair textures also play a big role in the finished look of the pixie haircut you desire.”

So if your hair is straight or fine, it may require a more technical cut. “The hair will need added structure as well as the softness of a pixie cut,” explains Smith. “However, those with a naturally curly or coiled texture may want to crop the hair and leave it in its natural state for a cool, effortless look, or perhaps opt for a straightening process for a sleeker look. There is so much versatility in the modern pixie.”

What should you know before you get a pixie cut?

“I tend to never give a client a ‘big chop’ unless they are absolutely sure, so that’s why I like to ask questions to find out what inspired the change and how long they’ve been thinking about it,’ says Smith. “Getting a pixie cut is a huge commitment, so it’s important to remember that you need regular haircuts to maintain the look.”

Smith also says he likes to ensure that his clients are always involved in the cutting process every step of the way. “That way they always have a fun and memorable experience,” he explains. 

Images: Getty