Scrunchies have become the quintessential hair accessory for every woman. Walk up to a woman, and we can guarantee they can spare you with at least one scrunchie from their handbag. They're reliable, dependable, and the answer to many, if not all, of our hair woes.
But what are scrunchies, exactly? Why are they slowly making a resurgence in style? Though they remind us of a long bygone era, scrunchies are still one of the best hair accessories women can't live without.
As simple as they may be, there's a magic to scrunchies that only we can understand. From allowing us to style our hair in creatively gorgeous looks to keeping hair strands out of our eyes, the scrunchie is our friend every step of the way.
Let's give our ol' reliable scrunchies some love by understanding a little bit about this essential hair accessory.
1. What Is A Hair Scrunchie?
The inception of the scrunchies dates back to the late '80s and '90s in an old rented house in Southampton, N.Y.
Then-nightclub singer Rommy Hunt Revson was reeling from a recent divorce from Revlon heir John Revson when she came up with an idea to tie her hair without using plastic or metal.
Revson noticed that these metal and plastic hair ties, which were popular in the '80s, were causing damage to the hair. They also led to headaches, as the hair strands ended up being wound too tightly.
Revson's prototype, the "Scunci", named after her poodle, seemed to be the answer. She took out a pre-owned sewing machine, taught herself how to sew, and combined fabric and elastic.
She was able to take out a patent for the design a year later, but her sewing technique wasn't immune to copycats.
Major US retailers were quick to jump on Revson's ingenious invention. They eventually began mass-producing and selling their bootleg Scuncis to the public, known as "scrunchies".
This hair accessory eventually rose to fame, becoming a regular hair ornament amongst women from all walks of life. The rest, they say, is history.
2. What Are Hair Scrunchies Used For?
You've likely encountered many different versions of the scrunchie. You're probably wearing one right now, and you know all too well the answer to the question: what are they used for?
In its most basic principle, a scrunchie is a hair accessory designed to tie sections of hair together in place. Though many scrunchies come in aesthetically-pleasing designs and looks, they also have many practical applications.
A simple scrunchie can make a dull and straight head of hair look more voluminous than your average hair tie. Scrunchies also moisturise your hair and prevent up to 90% hair fall.
On the other hand, scrunchies are a lady's best friend when styling hair. The scrunchie can do it all, whether you want to wear it around in a messy bun or a simple ponytail.
3. What Makes A Good Scrunchie?
Not all scrunchies are built the same. The stuff you find in typical stores is likely made out of cheap materials which are no different from other hair ties in the market.
But the key to a good scrunchie lies in the type of material. You may have to fork out more money for these scrunchies, but the investment is well worth it.
Common scrunchies in the market can be made of:
- Silk
- Organza
- Velvet
- Faux leather
- Cotton
- Jersey
- Polyester
Good silk scrunchies, for example, can reverse heat damage to the hair. Their soft and smooth texture allows you to curl your hair differently without tangling and breaking it.
Silk scrunchies are also great for achieving all kinds of hairstyles without the downsides of common styling techniques. If you want a perm-like treatment, silk curling scrunchies offer the same look, quality, and feel at more than half the price.
3. Different Ways To Wear Hair Scrunchies
Our guide on scrunchies won't be complete without discussing some of the most popular hairstyles you could do with them. It's an incredibly versatile hair ornament, and you'll soon find yourself swapping out the old elastic hair band for a good-quality scrunchie.
Without further ado, here are some styles you can achieve with hair scrunchies:
Ponytail
This is the most basic hairstyle you can do with a scrunchie.
- Step 1: Pull your hair up in a ponytail as you would, with any hair tie.
- Step 2: Wrap the scrunchie around it a few times, depending on its thickness.
- Step 3: Thicker hair might require a thicker scrunchie (the same rule applies to thin hair). Switch up your style by placing the ponytail lower or higher on your head.
Messy Bun
Scrunchies are also great for effortless looks, like a messy bun.
- Step 1: Start by gathering your hair into a high ponytail at the crown of your head.
- Step 2: Bring your hair about 90% through the scrunchie. Twist the scrunchie and make your first bun.
- Step 3: Twist the scrunchie one last time, then go over the first bun. Push pieces in or out of the scrunchie until you get the desired look.
French Braid
You can also use your scrunchie to tie your hair in a beautiful French braid.
- Step 1: Split your hair into three, then do a regular braid.
- Step 2: Add a section of hair from the right side, then braid it over to the middle. Do the same for the left side of your hair. Repeat this step about five or six times until all the hair has been braided or reaches the nape of your neck.
- Step 3: Tie off the braid with your scrunchie. Pull on some sections of your braid to add volume, as desired.
Ballerina Bun
This is the traditional hairstyle often worn by... well, ballerinas. You can do it at home, too, with a smooth silk scrunchie.
- Step 1: Gather a section of your hair (similar to a ponytail), then keep twisting it into a bun.
- Step 2: Hold the twisted bun in place, then loop your scrunchie around it. The scrunchie helps hide extra strands to keep the bun neat.
Half Bun
Go for a chic, half-bun style with your scrunchie.
- Step 1: Gather hair above your temples, then wrap it into a messy bun. Smoothen out jutting hair strands as necessary.
- Step 2: Put your scrunchie on the wrist, holding the gathered hair. Pull your hair about 90% through the scrunchie.
- Step 3: Loop the scrunchie once, then wrap it over the bun just as the ends of the gathered hair are about to fall out.
- Step 4: Twist the scrunchie again, then wrap it around the bun one last time. You can leave out a bit of hair to make the style appear more voluminous and layered.
Conclusion On What Are Scrunchies
Scrunchies can do just about anything when it comes to styling and keeping your hair healthy, and it's no surprise they have stood the test of time.
Tracing its humble origins from a used sewing machine, it has since come a long way, offering women a much more accessible, comfortable, and safer way to style their hair with ease.
Still curious about scrunchies? Fii Beauty has got you covered. We offer chic silk scrunchies in Singapore, perfect for all hair types and thicknesses.
Shop from our scrunchie collection now, or contact us for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions On What Are Scrunchies
What's Another Name For Scrunchies?
Scrunchies are also called hair clouds — a coin termed by Danish designer Line Sander Johansen.
Are Scrunchies Good For Your Hair?
Yes. Unlike plastic or rubber hair ties, scrunchies don't damage the hair. The fabric protects your hair strands from friction and allows your hair to be wound loosely.
Can You Sleep With Your Hair In A Scrunchie?
Yes. Sleeping while wearing your hair around a scrunchie is perfectly safe, as the soft fabric protects your hair from friction and undue damage.
Do Scrunchies Reduce Hair Loss?
Yes. Scrunchies are generally gentle and soft on the hair, allowing them to glide easily without tugging or pulling at your hair follicles. Silk scrunchies, in particular, help reduce further hair loss and breakage.