When Nirvana and Pearl Jam were music icons in the ’90s, there was no denying that grunge hairstyles were thriving. As fashion trends cycle back into current pop culture, we are seeing ’90s grunge hair again. Grunge looks are perfect when you want to let out your inner rock star or when you just want an undone, carefree look.
Bring on the Grunge
We know that 90s hairstyles are making a comeback and there are many different haircuts and hair colors for girls looking to achieve the grunge look. From effortlessly cool hair to amazing grunge updo hairstyles, here are 20 of the best, easy grunge hairstyles for your inspiration!
1. Messy Denim Bob
There is nothing more grunge than your typical platinum blonde, messy hair look. This messy grunge hair is perfect since it’s versatile and easy to do. To achieve this look, simply tousle your hair, add a bit of volume, and top it off with dark makeup. This look works well with medium length hair.
@kimmyschram
2. Half-Up Space Buns
There is nothing more ’90s than space buns, which is why this look by YouTuber, Zoe London, simply had to be on this list. This half-up, half-down look paired with two buns really compliments her vibrant, two-toned hair. An unforgettable grunge look that you can get too by following Zoe London’s tutorial.
@zoelondondj
3. Rose Gold Highlights
Rose gold doesn’t necessarily mean girly, it can also be a killer look when styled in a grungy way. Start off by leaving your roots dark while gradually lightening to the ends with a platinum rose gold. Style in waves for the colors to stand out and to it give a soft grunge look.
@constancerobbins
4. Kinky Curls Grunge
You can rock a grunge style with kinky curls. Experiment with your hair by playing with different braids on the top of your head and let the curls naturally flow free at the ends. Endless volume and tousled strands create an effortless, grungy look.
@mamaslaced
5. Braided Pony with Undercut
Here’s a classic grunge updo that is perfect for long hair: the easy and simple messy pony. Pull all your hair back and up to the top of your head and tie in a tight ponytail. The pony showcases your grungy darker roots. Finally, tousle the ponytail strands to achieve the messy grunge look.
@makeupbyrachellegames
6. Purple Ombre and Side Braid
Having a grunge hairstyle can also look glamorous! Take this look by YouTuber, Stella Cini. Her grunge look starts with dark hair with some soft violet at the ends, styled into a sleek, straight finish, with a braid added to the side for the final touch. Tip: use your makeup to emphasize the grunge and glamour. Learn how to get Stella’s look by watching her tutorial.
@stellacini
7. Center Parted Ombre Hair
If your style is grunge but you want something more natural and low-maintenance, try this toned-down cut and color. Leave your base color natural or darker and add some blonde to the ends as well as a few steaks around your face. Style your hair in messy, tousled waves and you will have an effortlessly cool look.
@agence_salon
8. Short Hair with an Edge
Short hair can be grungy too. Many grunge short hairstyles out there look amazing. Add some color to your pixie cut and style it by flipping the top to one side to create an edgy, asymmetrical look.
@hairdesignby_tay
9. Intertwined Grunge Braids
This intricate, half-up, half-down braided hairstyle is a gorgeous grunge option. Although it looks complicated, it’s simply using various braiding techniques on different sections of hair, intertwining them all into one half-up style. The best part about this hairstyle is that even if you mess it up, it will still look good!
@stylehairbysierra
10. Pink Roots
Instead of adding color to the ends of your hair, as usual, add a vibrant color to your roots and leave the ends natural. Pink roots give you a cute, grungy look and the vibrant color really pops.
@constancerobbins
11. Messy Grunge Bun
Messy buns are always convenient when you are in a rush or simply can’t be bothered with your hair. Plus, they can add a bit of grunge to your look. To get this look, style your hair in a messy bun and pull out some stray strands. Check out YouTuber Jade the Libra’s tutorial for another way to get the grungy, messy bun.
@foxandjane
12. Silver Waves
Thinking about changing your hair color to something a bit out-of-the-ordinary? This dreamy, wavy hair in a silver balayage is the perfect option for a grungy, disheveled look. The messy, textured waves really add character and volume to the hair, giving it some extra edge.
@glamyourcrown
13. Purple Braids
A classic hairstyle that is appropriate for school can also showcase your grungy style with this vibrant color. Interlocking the braid at the top like a corset also adds a fun and unique twist to regular pigtail braids.
@elenalanua
14. High-Top Grunge
Add a bit of grunge to the classic half-up, high ponytail with YouTuber Evelina Forsell’s tips. Let the top and front of the hair look sleek but add some curls throughout the rest of your hair for a voluminous and messy look. Check out Evelina’s tutorial to get this perfect grunge hairstyle.
@evelina
15. Braided Faux Hawk
This trendy look is one that will add personality and edge to your style. Part your hair in a deep side part and braid the smaller side into three french braids. Add little ring hair accessories throughout the braids for some extra grunge. For a final touch, curl the loose hair on the other side into soft waves for more texture.
@sveta_ligun
16. Mermaid Hair
Who said mermaids can’t be grungy? This beautiful blend of turquoise, violet, and blue tones goes from mermaid to grunge in seconds when styled with some messy curls and a bit of volume. Remember to protect your color-treated hair from styling damage with some heat protectant spray.
@mindiraek
17. The Pink Shaggy
Another option for short hair is this shaggy cut styled in a tousled, messy mop. Top it off with hints of pink and platinum for some grungy, edgy texture. This is a great look for girls that simply don’t have a lot of time in the morning since it’s so simple to style.
@hairdesignby_tay
18. The Twisted Bun
This twisted braid updo is a one-of-a-kind grunge look. By braiding your hair with your head flipped upside-down you can create this beautiful braid and top it off with a topknot. This is not your traditional braid or topknot and it will get you noticed.
@justinemarjan
19. Choppy Fringe
Don’t be afraid to go for a razor cut to get a grunge look. The key part of this hairstyle is adding bangs to match the bob. This will add more texture to the look and looks perfect when tousled and paired with your ’90s choker.
@_noomah
20. Glitter Space Buns
Retro grunge meets trendy hair glitter. This hairstyle blends old and new trends by mixing space buns with hair glitter. It’s a lot easier than you think, just divide your hair into two pigtails and do a reverse French braid, twisting them into a bun at the ends. Add some glitter to your roots and you’re all set.
@beautybymeaganb
It’s always fun to play with hairstyles that make us look effortlessly cool. These 20 looks are perfect for anybody who is looking to add some personality and edge to their style while channeling their inner ’90s wild-child. Whether you lived through the grunge era or you’re experiencing it for the first time, we guarantee you will look killer in these looks.