This spring at Takamichi Hair on the Bowery, one era keeps resurfacing: the 1990s — but cleaner, more tailored, and meant to last.
Across men’s and women’s appointments, we’re seeing a shift toward longer shapes, classic structure, and warmer tones. With renewed cultural interest in figures like John F. Kennedy Jr. and Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy — and the ongoing nostalgia cycle — clients are leaning into timeless silhouettes over trend-driven cuts.
Men’s Hair: Longer, Polished, 90s Energy
Short fades are softening.
Andreas notes that men in their mid-20s to mid-30s are gravitating toward classic 80s shapes and Britpop-inspired cuts — structured but not severe.
Hannah has seen a rise in requests for the 90s “heartthrob” look — think Leonardo DiCaprio in Titanic — medium length, layered, and natural.
Takamichi observes that men are asking for longer proportions than last year. Not shoulder-length, but closer to the understated ease of JFK Jr. in the 90s: controlled, slightly grown-in, and confident without looking overworked.
Tina describes it simply: the clean-cut yuppie look is back — balanced, precise, and designed to grow out beautifully.
What defines the 2026 men’s trend in NYC:
Medium length over ultra-short
Less aggressive fading
Stronger shape at the sides
Natural movement on top
Longevity over shock value
Women’s Cuts: 90s Volume & Classic Layers
For women, volume is returning — but refined.
Hannah notes a rise in 90s-inspired straight blowouts with lift and softness, reminiscent of Cher in Clueless.
Younger clients are even referencing “The Rachel,” which today translates into long layers and a deep face frame rather than a dramatic chop.
Tina reports continued demand for:
Bobs and lobs
Soft face-framing layers
Stronger bangs
Cuts that feel classic and clean
The through-line is structure without excess.
Color: A Shift Toward Warmth
Nat South has seen a clear move toward warmer tones this season.
Instead of icy ash, clients are asking for:
Rich chocolate browns
Golden highlights
Subtle warmth that complements natural texture
After seasons of cooler palettes, warmth feels intentional and flattering.
A Cultural Return — Built with Technique
The references this spring are unmistakably 90s — but the execution is not nostalgic. The appeal of figures like John F. Kennedy Jr. or the soft volume seen in Clueless lies in proportion and restraint, not excess.
Longer men’s cuts are being shaped with internal structure rather than aggressive tapering. Layers are placed to control movement, not exaggerate it. Even “The Rachel” requests translate today into strategic face framing and weight distribution, not the heavily carved layers of the original.
Color is following the same logic — warmth added with depth, not brightness for its own sake.
What’s returning isn’t the 90s. It’s balance.