The 'Off-Campus Cut': The Retro Lob For That '90s Sitcom Hair Look

What do Rachel from the '90s classic "Friends" sitcom and influencer Alix Earle in fall 2023 have in common? A medium-length cut featuring smooth layers — playfully called the "off-campus cut." With "blown-out, straight, long layers ... It's the epitome of pared-back, one-length, '90s sitcom style hair," celebrity hairstylist Clay Hawkins, who came up with the name, told Glamour.

Keep in mind that if you want this haircut, not every hairstylist will be familiar with the term "off-campus cut." So, before your hair appointment, it can't hurt to think of how you plan to ask for the style. For instance, hairdresser @hair.by.nina posted a video of the haircut on TikTok, calling it "medium length hair, long layers, and chin length face framing." It may be better to word it that way to your stylist instead of saying the "off-campus cut" to avoid any confusion. Plus, there are different variations of the haircut, so think carefully about which spin you like best, and show your hairdresser pictures of how you want it to look once you decide.

Anyone who wants the most genuine form of an off-campus cut should opt for a medium-length chop with smooth layers and wear it straight. If you want a livelier version of the mid-length "clavicut" that works on everyone, the "off-campus" cut's light layers will elevate the medium-length hair. When you rock that sleek haircut, you'll look like you jumped out of a '90s sitcom!

While the styled off-campus cut is usually meant to be straight, don't feel pressure to straighten your hair daily once you get the haircut. Medium-length hair with long layers looks stunning with waves and curls, so don't hide your hair's genuine texture to conform to the off-campus cut's initial look. There's nothing wrong with putting your own spin on the hairstyle.

Consider adding curtain bangs if you want a bolder spin on the off-campus cut. Curtain bangs will frame your face even more than the haircut's layers without overpowering it as a traditional full fringe might. Before committing to curtain bangs and the off-campus cut, you may want to read up on tips for styling curtain bangs with a flat iron so they won't get in the way when styling your hair.

The side part vs. middle part debate often gets rather heated, but both looks work for this haircut. The classic middle part might be more common for this cut because of the layers and sleek appearance. However, a side part will make for an exciting twist, helping the look appear edgier, whether the part is slightly off-center or dramatically deep.

You don't have to chop your hair to a medium length if you love your long locks but want to try the off-campus look! Instead, consider opting for long layers but keeping the overall length longer. By keeping your hair long, you can try the look without the risk of regret from a drastic chop.

Don't let this haircut's college-inspired name fool you! Just because "campus" is in the label, that doesn't mean only girls and women who are currently in college or are in their 20s should rock the cut. Women of all ages look stunning in the chic, layered haircut, so feel free to explore it at any age.