When a new 90s hairstyle enters the beauty conversation, we listen. And one that's been cropping up seemingly everywhere lately is the bixie. A portmanteau of the words pixie and bob, the style incorporates the choppy, cropped layers of the former with the below-ear length of the latter. The result harks back to all the dream girls of the 90s; think Cameron Diaz in There's Something About Mary, Drew Barrymore in Mad Love and naturally, Winona Ryder in Reality Bites.
What actually is a bixie?
To break it down even further, the bixie is an edgier, more defined older sibling of the hearthrob bob, and equally as nostalgic. It's the girl next door meets Rizzo. But the beauty of the style is found in its versatility: it makes for a great pit stop for those growing out their pixie cut and it's the perfect middle ground for anyone that's tossing up on committing to a mullet. Put differently, it's grungy yet still retains a romantic softness.
Although the glory days of the bixie can be traced back to the nineties, we've witnessed a kind of renaissance of the style among models, musicians, celebrities and TikTokers alike. From Big Thief vocalist Adrianne Lenker's paired-back entry into the genre, to model Yana Bovenistier's sophisticated take, there's a bank of inspiration on standby if you're craving a big chop.
And as anyone who has made a significant chop will tell you, slicing off any excess baggage (even if it's your hair) can be just the kind of symbolic gesture you need to start anew. So take the plunge. Reinvent yourself. Book in with your stylist and ask for a bixie.
How to ask your stylist to cut a bixie
When it comes to getting a bixie, clarity is key. Bring a few reference photos to your stylist to show the length, layering, and texture you’re aiming for, but remember that your hair’s natural texture will affect the final look. Decide whether you want softer, blended layers or a choppier, more defined edge, and be honest about how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to.
Our favourite bixie inspiration
Now that you know what a bixie is, it’s time for the fun part: getting inspired. From Emma Stone's post-Bugonia take, to Teyana Taylor's effortlessly sharp chop, these are some of our favourite bixies on celebrities and creatives today — proof that this 90s revival can be tailored to any personality or vibe.
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