Scrunchie High Ponytail
This look is less a complex style and more a defining accessory trend of the 80s and early 90s. The scrunchie, a large fabric hair tie, transforms a basic high ponytail or bun into a statement piece. It’s the epitome of 90s functional chic, securing the hair firmly while adding a vibrant pop of color or texture to the style. This look works best with straight or slightly wavy hair lengths.
| Hair Type | Straight |
| Categories | |
| Occasion | Casual |
| Prep Time | 1 minute |
| Styling Time | 2 minutes |
| Setting Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 3 minutes |
| Hair Length | Medium |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Popularity | 80/100 |
| Tags | accessorystatementchic |
Instructions
- 1
Begin with dry, detangled hair. Apply a small amount of smoothing serum to your palms and run it over the crown to lay down any flyaways.
- 2
Using your brush, gather all your hair up to the desired height (usually the crown of the head or higher). Ensure the base of the ponytail is sleek and bump-free.
- 3
Optional: Secure the ponytail tightly using a small, clear elastic band. This ensures the style is secure before the scrunchie is added for decoration.
- 4
Take your chosen scrunchie and wrap it around the base of the ponytail (over the elastic, if used). Wrap it as many times as needed to feel secure and have the fabric ruffle outward.
- 5
Adjust the scrunchie so the fullest part of the fabric faces forward for maximum visibility. Lightly tug the ponytail hair taut to complete the sleek look.
Styling Tips
For extra volume in the ponytail itself, use a gentle teasing brush to backcomb the underside of the ponytail hair before applying the scrunchie.
Velvet and oversized scrunchies are the most authentic to the original 90s trend.
If your hair is extremely thick, securing it first with a durable elastic and using the scrunchie purely for decoration is recommended.
More 90s Hairstyles For Women
Hilary Banks Hat-Ready Hairstyle
Inspired by Karyn Parsons’ iconic character Hilary Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, this look focuses on styling medium to long hair with polished volume and bounce, specifically to be paired with a statement hat. The key is smooth, controlled hair that maintains lift at the roots so that it does not fall flat under headwear. This style embodies 90s polished glamour and works well with straightened or smooth hair.
Sarah Jessica Wild Natural Curls
The signature, highly voluminous, and often wild curl pattern popularized by Sarah Jessica Parker in her iconic role as Carrie Bradshaw in the late 1990s. This look celebrates natural hair texture, emphasizing high volume, length, and defined spirals. It stands as a pinnacle of 90s natural hair trends, favoring bounce and movement over sleek perfection. This style works best on medium to long naturally curly or coily hair.
Michelle Williams Emmy 1999
Sporting a chic, youthful style during her Dawson’s Creek days, Michelle Williams’ 1999 Emmy hairstyle featured sleek, shoulder-length hair with subtle layers. The look balanced polished sophistication with effortless teen charm, perfectly framing her face for red carpet moments.
Demi Moore Curly Pixie
Part of the dramatic hair evolution of Demi Moore in the 90s, this hairstyle is a short pixie cut that embraces natural curl and maximizes volume. Unlike smoother pixies, this look is defined by its airy, voluminous body and soft, defined ringlets, which were highly popular among celebrities of the era. The look is achieved by encouraging the natural curl pattern while ensuring the short layers maintain their piecey structure.
Alicia Silverstone Butterfly Clips
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Gwyneth Paltrow Side-Parted Pixie
A sleek, side-parted pixie that showcases Gwyneth Paltrow’s understated ’90s elegance. Subtle bobby pins hold strands in place while keeping the look minimalistic and chic. This style emphasizes facial features and works well with minimal styling products for a polished yet effortless finish.
Princess Diana 90s Layers
Building on her iconic ’80s haircut, Princess Diana’s ’90s layers were slightly longer, framing her face with soft elegance. This timeless royal style combines movement, volume, and sophistication, cementing her status as a hair legend across decades.
Drew Barrymore Platinum Curls
Platinum blonde curls styled in a classic ’90s fashion, complemented by thin eyebrows and bold red lips. Symmetrical daisy hair accessories add a playful, whimsical touch. This look combines vintage Hollywood glamour with youthful, carefree energy, perfect for formal events or making a statement.