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The '90s scrunchie hairstyle is making a stylish comeback, adored for its versatility and retro charm. But is it better suited for medium, long, or short hair? The beauty of this look lies in its adaptability. For medium and long hair, scrunchies secure ponytails, buns, or braids, adding volume and a pop of color. Short-haired folks aren’t left out either—mini scrunchies can accentuate half-up styles or playful pigtails.
If you're unsure what a scrunchie hairstyle looks like, picture soft, gathered fabric encircling your hair. This article is about to give you 15 creative ways to elevate the classic scrunchie, showing how this accessory can transform any hair type into a stunning ’90s-inspired look with a modern twist.
Are scrunchies popular in the 90s?
In the ’90s, scrunchies were a cultural phenomenon. From everyday wear to red carpet appearances, scrunchies became the go-to for anyone wanting to add a playful and stylish touch to their hairstyle. They dominated because of their blend of practicality and bold aesthetics. Scrunchies came in a variety of materials like cotton for casual looks, velvet for glam occasions, and even metallic fabrics for edgy styles.
Compared to other popular ’90s hairstyles like butterfly clips or zigzag headbands, scrunchies had a unique charm. While butterfly clips were more decorative and required intricate placement, scrunchies were both functional and stylish. Unlike the sometimes uncomfortable headbands, scrunchies provided comfort and flexibility.
How did people in the 90s wear their hair?
The 1990s were a golden age of hair experimentation, where trends ranged from casual to bold and attention-grabbing. People embraced variety, with styles often reflecting their personality or mood. High ponytails were a staple, often adorned with colorful scrunchies or other statement accessories. Layers were hugely popular, with “The Rachel” haircut—made famous by Jennifer Aniston in Friends—becoming a cultural phenomenon. Braided styles also made waves, from classic pigtail braids to intricate cornrows.
What era were scrunchies popular?
Scrunchies became a defining accessory in the late 1980s and soared to iconic status throughout the 1990s. Known for their hair-friendly design, they captured the hearts of people across all walks of life. During this era, scrunchies were a perfect match for the bold and colorful fashion trends of the time, with their oversized shapes and vibrant patterns complementing the playful energy of the decade. Popularized by celebrities, TV characters, and fashion-forward teens, scrunchies symbolized a carefree, approachable style that resonated with the era’s love for self-expression.
By the early 2000s, scrunchies began to fall out of favor. The minimalist aesthetics of the new millennium leaned toward thinner elastics and simpler accessories. As hairstyles evolved toward polished ponytails and smooth buns, the scrunchie was largely replaced by subtler, more discreet options.
Top 15 best scrunchie hairstyles for your 90s’ girl
Here are standout scrunchie hairstyles that let you channel your inner ’90s girl with flair. Whether your hair is long, short, thick, or fine, these looks can be tailored to fit your style while keeping your locks healthy and damage-free.
1. The high ponytail: A statement of confidence
The high ponytail is the quintessential ’90s hairstyle for long or medium-length hair with some natural volume. It’s a bold, playful look that screams confidence and works especially well for straight or wavy textures.
Pro tip: Tilt your head upside down when gathering your hair to achieve maximum height and a sleek finish.
2. Half-up half-down with a twist
For a softer, more romantic look, try the half-up half-down style. This is a fantastic choice for medium to long hair and works beautifully with layers or natural waves. Use a satin scrunchie for added elegance, and pull out a few face-framing strands to give it that effortless ’90s vibe. For finer hair, tease the crown slightly before tying it to add volume.
3. Messy bun: Effortlessly cool
A messy bun paired with a scrunchie is the ultimate casual-chic hairstyle. This works for all hair lengths, though medium to long hair makes for a fuller bun. Use a velvet scrunchie to add texture and a touch of luxury. Wear it for busy days when you want to look put-together without much effort.
Tip: Let a few strands fall naturally around your face for an undone look.
4. Low ponytail with a retro vibe
The low ponytail is an elegant option to showcase bold or patterned scrunchies. This style works for all hair types and lengths but is particularly striking on straight or lightly textured hair. To elevate the look, wrap a strand of hair around the base of the ponytail to hide the hair tie and give it a polished finish.
5. Pigtails: Playful and youthful
Channel your inner child with scrunchie pigtails. Use smaller scrunchies to keep the look balanced and not overly dramatic. It’s a playful style for themed parties or casual days when you want to stand out.
6. The top knot: Elevated simplicity
A top knot secured with a scrunchie is an easy yet stylish way to keep your hair out of your face. This look is especially good for medium to long hair and thick textures, as it creates a voluminous bun. You can twist the hair tightly before wrapping it into a bun for a more secure hold and a sleek finish.
7. Braided ponytail: Retro meets modern
For a more intricate ’90s-inspired hairstyle, try a braided ponytail with a scrunchie at the base. This works best on long hair and is a great way to show off texture and thickness. To keep the braid secure, tie a small elastic at the end and fluff the braid slightly for volume.
8. The braided bun: Sophisticated yet retro
The braided bun combines the elegance of a braided style with the casual charm of a scrunchie. This hairstyle works particularly well with thick or textured hair, as the braid adds detail and dimension to the bun. For a ’90s twist, choose a velvet or floral scrunchie to tie the look together.
Pro tip: For extra hold, use bobby pins to secure the bun before adding the scrunchie. Finish with a light mist of hairspray to keep the braid smooth and frizz-free.
9. Side ponytail: Flirty and fun
The side ponytail is a playful twist on a classic look for medium to long hair. This style works best for straight or wavy hair types. You can position the ponytail just above your ear for a balanced look, and add some loose curls for a softer finish. Do it for casual outings, parties, or retro-themed events.
10. Loose low bun: Minimalist charm
A loose low bun paired with a neutral-toned scrunchie is an understated yet chic option. Choose it if you’re the one with medium to long hair with a smooth or slightly wavy texture. Use a lightweight scrunchie in a soft material like satin to keep the bun secure without pulling too tightly. For a polished touch, pull out a few strands around your face.
11. Fishtail braid with a scrunchie accent
For a unique and intricate style, try a fishtail braid with a scrunchie securing the end. This hairstyle works best on long, thick hair. Choose a metallic or embellished scrunchie to add a touch of glam.
Pro insight: Start the braid loosely for a softer appearance, and use your fingers to gently pull apart the sections for extra volume.
12. Curly puff ponytail: Defined and dynamic
If you have natural curls, a puff ponytail secured with a scrunchie is a bold and striking choice. This style highlights your natural texture while keeping the hair out of your face. Choose a bright or patterned scrunchie to contrast with your curls and make a statement. For the best results, gather the curls at the crown of your head and fluff them out for maximum volume.
13. Space buns: Quirky and creative
Space buns secured with scrunchies are a fun, youthful option that works for short to medium-length hair. Use matching scrunchies for a coordinated look or mix-and-match for a playful vibe.
Pro tip: Create clean part lines down the center for symmetry, and use a light hairspray to keep flyaways in check. This hairstyle is great for festivals, casual outings, or just adding some fun to your day.
14. Wrapped ponytail: Sleek and polished
For a modern take on the scrunchie, try a wrapped ponytail. This style works well for medium to long hair, particularly if you have smooth or straight textures. Secure the ponytail with a scrunchie and then wrap a small section of hair around the base to hide the band. A scrunchie in neutral or metallic tones works best for this sleek look.
15. Textured low ponytail with layers
A textured low ponytail paired with a scrunchie is a relaxed yet polished option. Use a scrunchie in a soft pastel or floral pattern to add a feminine touch. Or a sea salt spray or texturizing product to enhance the layers and create an effortless look.
How to blow out scrunchie hairstyle properly?
If you’re looking to elevate your scrunchie hairstyle, it all starts with the frizz-free blowout. The Laifen Swift Special is what you want finally, thanks to its advanced ionic technology and fast-drying capabilities that leave hair smooth and shiny.
To begin, prep your hair with a lightweight volumizing mousse or spray to create a solid base for styling. Then, you should divide your hair into sections so it even dries and helps you focus on achieving precision. With the Laifen Swift Special, start drying at the roots using the concentrator attachment to create lift and volume, then work your way to the ends in steady, smooth motions.
