24 Scrunchie Ponytail Styles That Embrace the ’90s
Feel that? It’s a wave of pure, unadulterated nostalgia. The scrunchie, once the reigning champion of hair accessories, has staged a triumphant comeback, and it’s bringing the best of ‘90s style with it. No longer confined to the realm of sleepovers and gym class, the modern scrunchie is a versatile, stylish, and surprisingly chic tool for creating effortless looks. If you thought ponytails were basic, think again. We’re diving deep into the archives (and the latest trends) to bring you 24 scrunchie ponytail styles that perfectly capture that ‘90s spirit while feeling fresh for today.
The High & Mighty: Elevated Classic Ponies
This is where the ‘90s energy is at its peak—literally. The high ponytail, especially when secured with a bold scrunchie, instantly lifts your face and delivers major attitude.
The Supermodel High Pony: Think Cindy Crawford. Brush hair smoothly to the crown of your head, secure tightly, and wrap with a large, silk scrunchie. The key is height and sleekness at the crown, with a slight bump at the front for that authentic ‘90s vibe.
The Textured High Pony: For a more relaxed, “I woke up like this” version, tease the hair at the crown slightly before gathering. Leave out a few face-framing pieces. Use a crinkled velvet or satin scrunchie to enhance the lived-in texture.
The Bubble High Pony: A playful twist! Create a high ponytail with a scrunchie, then use small, clear elastics down the length of the tail. Gently pull apart each section to create “bubbles.” Finish by wrapping the base scrunchie one more time for emphasis.
Low-Key Cool: Laid-Back Low Ponytails
If high energy isn’t your thing, the ‘90s low ponytail offers an effortlessly chic alternative. It’s the signature look of countless ‘90s sitcom stars and movie heroines.
The Office-Chic Low Pony: Part hair down the middle or to the side, brush it back neatly, and secure at the nape of the neck with a subdued, solid-color scrunchie. This is perfect for adding a soft, professional touch to workwear.
The Messy Low Pony: The epitome of cool-girl style. Gather hair loosely at the nape, allowing waves and pieces to escape. A oversized, textured scrunchie in a neutral tone holds it all together with an air of nonchalance.
The Low Side Pony: Channel your inner Clueless extra. Sweep all your hair over one shoulder and secure with a scrunchie just below the ear. Opt for a plush, velour scrunchie for maximum ‘90s authenticity.
Half-Up, All ’90s
The half-up, half-down style was a ‘90s staple, and adding a scrunchie takes it to the next level of nostalgic charm. It’s the perfect balance between wearing your hair down and keeping it out of your face.
The Half-Up Topknot: Gather only the top section of your hair (from the temples up) as if making a tiny ponytail on the crown. Instead of pulling it all the way through on the last loop of the scrunchie, leave it as a mini bun or puff. This creates adorable volume and highlights your scrunchie choice.
The Twisted Half-Up: Take two sections of hair from the front, twist them back, and secure them together at the back of your crown with a small, printed scrunchie. It’s a delicate, romantic take that still nods to the decade.
The Teased Half-Up: For true ‘90s drama, lightly tease the crown section before gathering it into a half-up ponytail with a scrunchie. The bigger the hair, the closer to 1995.
Braided & Bunned: Intricate Throwbacks
Incorporate braids and buns with your scrunchie for styles that are both intricate and deeply nostalgic. These looks were all over ‘90s yearbooks.
The Scrunchie-Secured Braid: Create a simple three-strand braid (or a fishtail for extra flair) and secure the end not with a standard elastic, but with a coordinating scrunchie. Wrap it multiple times for a bold finish.
The Low Bun Wrap: Make a low bun (messy or sleek) and instead of using bobby pins as your primary hold, wrap a long, tube-style scrunchie around the base. It looks like a chic, padded headband effect.
Braided Pony with Scrunchie Accent: Create a ponytail first, then braid the tail. Wrap the base of the ponytail (where the elastic is) with a large scrunchie to hide the elastic and add a pop of color.
Double the Fun: Space Buns & Pigtails
Why have one ponytail when you can have two? Double styles are inherently playful and scream ‘90s fun.
Space Buns: Part hair down the middle. Create two high ponytails and twist each into a bun. The magic? Use two matching (or clashing!) scrunchies to secure each bun. Wrap the scrunchie around the base of the bun for a cohesive look.
High Pigtails: The ultimate playful style. Two high ponytails on either side of the head, secured with vibrant, statement scrunchies. For authenticity, tease the ponytails slightly for a bit of volume.
Low Double Buns: A more subdued take. Create two low ponytails at the nape of your neck and twist them into mini buns, securing each with a small, knotted scrunchie. It’s sporty and cute.
Accessorize & Amplify: Embellished & Themed Styles
Your scrunchie isn’t just a holder—it’s the star. Choose bold pieces to define your look.
The Velvet Statement: A deep, jewel-toned velvet scrunchie on a low ponytail instantly adds a luxe, autumnal ‘90s feel. Pair with a chunky sweater for full effect.
The Printed Scarf Scrunchie: Many scrunchies are made from scarf material. Choose a bold, geometric or animal print and let it be the focal point against a simple, sleek ponytail.
The Glamorous Bow: Many modern scrunchies come with attached bows. Use a large, satin bow scrunchie on a side-swept low ponytail for a look that’s both ‘90s and modern romantic.
The Athletic Tube: Use a long, stretchy tube scrunchie to create a thick, wrapped base for a high pony. This was a gym-class favorite and now looks sporty-chic.
Modern Mashups: ’90s Scrunchie Meets Today’s Trends
The true test of a trend is its adaptability. Here’s how to merge the classic scrunchie pony with contemporary hair trends.
The Scrunchie on a Claw Clip Base: This is a hybrid for the ages. Gather your hair into a low ponytail and secure it first with a small claw clip at the nape. Then, wrap a scrunchie over the clip and the base of the pony. It’s ultra-secure and texturally interesting.
Face-Framing Ponytail with Scrunchie: After creating your ponytail (high or low), pull out a few strategic pieces around your face and curl them lightly with an iron. The contrast between the sleek pony, the soft tendrils, and the textured scrunchie is perfection.
The “Clean Girl” Sleek Pony: Use a fine-tooth comb and gel to create an impossibly sleek, flyaway-free high ponytail. The contrast with a soft, fluffy scrunchie creates a stunning juxtaposition of polished and cozy.
Your Scrunchie Styling Cheat Sheet
Material Matters: Silk and satin are great for sleek styles and are gentlest on hair. Velvet and velour offer maximum ‘90s texture and are perfect for messy looks. Cotton prints are great for daytime casual.
Size & Proportion: Larger, puffier scrunchies work best on thicker hair or for making a statement. Smaller, thinner scrunchies are ideal for fine hair or more subtle, intricate styles like half-up dos.
The Wrap Technique: Don’t just tie it once. For a secure hold and a fuller look, wrap your scrunchie around the base of the ponytail two to three times. Let the ends of the scrunchie fluff out for that iconic look.
The scrunchie ponytail is more than a comeback; it’s a celebration of an era that knew how to have fun with fashion. It’s a testament to the fact that the best trends are cyclical, returning with a fresh perspective. With these 24 styles in your arsenal, you’re not just tying your hair back—you’re making a statement. You’re embracing comfort, creativity, and a dash of delightful nostalgia. So go ahead, pick your favorite scrunchie, and give your ponytail the ‘90s upgrade it deserves.
