16 Scrunchie Techniques Beyond Basic Ponytails

1. The Scrunchie Pony Wrap

Let’s start with an easy upgrade. Instead of using one scrunchie, use two or three! Create your standard ponytail with your first scrunchie. Then, take a second (and third) scrunchie and wrap it around the base, stacking them for a bold, colorful, or textural effect. This adds instant dimension and turns a simple pony into a deliberate style statement. Mix patterns and fabrics for a playful look.

2. The Half-Up Scrunchie Bun

This is the perfect blend of casual and chic. Gather the top half of your hair as if you’re making a half-up ponytail. Instead of securing it with a clear elastic, use a scrunchie. Twist the length of the half-up section and wrap it around the base, securing the ends with the same scrunchie to form a small, loose bun. Let the bottom hair flow free. It’s romantic, relaxed, and keeps hair out of your face.

3. The Scrunchie-Accented Braid

Incorporate your scrunchie into your braid for a pop of color. Start a regular three-strand braid. After a few crosses, place a scrunchie around one of the outer strands, letting it sit like a charm on the braid. Continue braiding, incorporating the scrunchie as part of that strand. You can also simply tie a scrunchie around the middle of a finished braid for a cute, broken-up look.

4. The Low Messy Bun with Scrunchie

The epitome of effortless cool. Gather your hair at the nape of your neck into a low ponytail using a scrunchie. Don’t pull the hair all the way through on the last loop—leave the ends out to create a loop. Then, fan out the loop and gently pull at sections to create a soft, messy bun. Secure any loose ends with bobby pins underneath. The scrunchie provides a gorgeous, fluffy frame for the bun.

5. The Scrunchie Headband

No more pinching elastic headbands! Take a large, stretchy scrunchie and wear it as a headband. You can place it right at your hairline for a bohemian vibe or push it back slightly over your crown for a sporty look. This works beautifully to keep flyaways at bay or to add a colorful accent to straight, wavy, or curly hair. It’s incredibly gentle and won’t give you a headache.

6. The Bubble Ponytail with Scrunchies

This futuristic-looking style is surprisingly simple. Create a high ponytail with a scrunchie. Then, place additional scrunchies down the length of the tail, spacing them 2-3 inches apart. After each scrunchie is secured, gently tug on the section of hair between scrunchies to “puff” it out, creating the “bubble” effect. The softness of scrunchies makes this style comfortable and visually interesting.

7. The Scrunchie-Wrapped Chignon

Elevate your low bun into an elegant chignon. Twist your hair into a low, sleek bun and secure it with bobby pins. Then, take a sleek satin or silk scrunchie and wrap it around the base of the bun, covering the pins. This gives a polished, finished look and adds a touch of luxury. Choose a scrunchie color that complements your outfit for a coordinated feel.

8. The Pineapple Puff with a Scrunchie

Ideal for curly and natural hair textures, this technique preserves volume overnight and makes a stylish day look. Gather all your hair at the very top of your head (like a high ponytail, but with all your hair). Secure it loosely with a large, soft scrunchie, only wrapping it once or twice. The goal is to create a high “pineapple” puff that maintains your curl pattern and adds playful height.

9. The Wrist-to-Hair Accessory

Don’t just style with your scrunchie—wear it! Stack multiple scrunchies on your wrist as a colorful bracelet. When the moment strikes, you have a hair accessory ready to go. This practical and trendy trick lets you match your hair to your outfit instantly and adds a playful, youthful accessory to your overall look.

10. The Scrunchie Space Buns

Space buns get a softer, less severe update with scrunchies. Part your hair down the middle. Make two high ponytails, one on each side, using scrunchies. Wrap each ponytail around its base to form a bun, and secure the ends with the same scrunchie or a second one. The result is a fun, relaxed version of the space bun that’s perfect for festivals or a playful day out.

11. The Scrunchie-Ended Pig Tails

Give simple pigtails a fresh twist. Create two low or high pigtails, securing the ends with scrunchies instead of regular elastics. Let the ends of your hair flow out from the scrunchie for a carefree look, or wrap them into mini buns. Using contrasting or extra-large scrunchies makes this style feel intentional and chic, not childish.

12. The Top Knot with a Statement Scrunchie

The top knot is a go-to, but a scrunchie takes it to the next level. Gather your hair into a high ponytail and twist into a knot, securing with bobby pins. Then, wrap a large, statement scrunchie around the base. This could be a bold print, a luxe velvet, or an oversized satin one. It becomes the focal point of the hairstyle, adding texture and interest.

13. The Scrunchie Hair Tuck

This illusion is genius for short hair or adding a pop at the nape. Create a low, loose ponytail with a scrunchie. On the last loop, don’t pull your hair all the way through—create a loop, but then tuck the ends of your hair up and into the base of the loop, hiding them. It looks like a chic, folded-under bob or a neat twist, with the scrunchie serving as a beautiful accent at the back.

14. The Braided Scrunchie Holder

Incorporate the scrunchie from the start. Place a scrunchie around your wrist. Pick up a small section of hair at the front and begin a braid. After the first cross, incorporate the scrunchie into the braid by looping one strand through it. Continue braiding, letting the scrunchie dangle or sit within the braid, then integrate the braid into a larger style like a ponytail or bun.

15. The Double Bun (Double Scrunchie Power)

Think Princess Leia, but softer. Part your hair down the middle. On each side, gather hair into a bun at ear level (not too high). Use a scrunchie to secure each bun. You can make them neat or messy. This symmetrical look is surprisingly wearable and a great way to keep all hair completely off your face and shoulders, showcasing your scrunchies in stereo.

16. The Scrunchie as a Bag Charm

Your scrunchie’s versatility extends beyond your hair. Tie a favorite scrunchie around the strap of your handbag, tote, or backpack. It’s a quick, personal, and changeable way to accessorize your bag. Plus, it’s always there if you need a quick hair fix on the go. It’s the ultimate functional fashion hack.

Unleash Your Scrunchie Creativity

As you can see, the humble scrunchie is far from a one-trick pony. From elegant updos to playful accents, its potential is limited only by your imagination. These 16 techniques are just the beginning. The key is to experiment with different sizes, fabrics, and placements. A velvet scrunchie adds wintery texture, satin prevents breakage and shines, and printed cotton brings a playful vibe.

So, raid your drawer, invest in a few statement pieces, and start playing. Your hair will thank you for the gentle hold, and your style will reach new, effortlessly cool heights. The scrunchie has officially reclaimed its throne—not just as a nostalgic accessory, but as a modern styling powerhouse. Which technique will you try first?