The ‘90s style that’s winning over a new generation with airy layers and unapologetic fullness.
“Girls don’t want boys. They want Topanga’s hair from Boy Meets World.” This TikTok revelation may have started as a joke, but it hit a nerve. Because honestly, she had the hair. Now, the voluminous, face-framing blowout that made Topanga Lawrence a ‘90s icon is taking over our feeds and salon mood boards. Here’s why everyone’s obsessed and how to get the look for yourself.
Topanga Lawrence, played by Danielle Fishel, was a standout character on Boy Meets World, which aired from 1993 to 2000. She started off as the quirky, poetic girl with super long, dreamy hair, and over time, evolved into a confident, whip-smart teen who still had amazing hair.
One of her most iconic arcs comes in season 4, when she chops off her locks to prove that looks don’t define her. The message was clear, but the result left her spiraling until hairstylist Bosco Cellini gave her a sleek, voluminous cut that became legendary.
Technically, it’s a classic layered cut. But on TikTok and IRL, it’s been revived as a softer, swoopier version with a polished ‘90s feel. The cut usually falls around five inches past the collarbone – long enough for movement, short enough to feel fresh. Its signature features are feathery, face-framing layers, swooped-out ends, and major bounce. There’s a nostalgic charm to it, but also something timeless. It’s the kind of hair that looks effortless but clearly took some effort.
@lily_scissorhands
This cut flatters many hair types, but it shines best on medium to thick hair. If your strands are fine, all those layers might end up looking a little sparse, so ask your stylist to go easy on the thinning. And while the look works best at a longer length, you can still nod to it with shoulder-length hair – it just might not have as much drama.
The basics: ask for long, blended layers to build volume and texture. Face-framing pieces should start around the jawline to mimic Topanga’s iconic swoop. You can personalize the look with bangs – curtain bangs are the go-to, but bottleneck or airy fringe styles also play nicely.
@cloverandwoollysalon
Back in the ’90s, Danielle Fishel reportedly spent hours with hot rollers to get that signature bounce. Thankfully, we have faster (and less sweaty) options now.
Start by applying a volumizing mousse at the roots, and don’t skip the heat protectant while you’re at it. Then, reach for a hair dryer brush for an all-in-one blowout, or use a round brush and blow dryer to smooth and shape your layers. For that swoopy, Topanga-style finish, curl the ends inward while they’re still warm and pin them up to cool in place.
Once everything’s set, mist with a flexible-hold hairspray to lock in the shape. A shine serum or glossing spray is your final step for that polished, camera-ready gleam.
@louiseashelfordhairdesign
Whether you grew up watching Topanga or just discovered her via TikTok, reviving throwback hair is a fun way to tap into your inner teen. Want more inspo? Check out our take on the ’90s hairstyles that are totally back and the lowdown on the ’90s layered bob.
