Scrunchies were a staple in the average 1980s wardrobe. Their popularity began due to their less damaging effects on hair and their fun patterns and color options. Similar to most trends, their popularity died out over time. However, scrunchies resurfaced again in the mid-2010s. But their popularity might have reached its stalemate once again.
Scrunchies’ renaissance began in 2017 when they appeared at the New York Fashion Week as part of Mansur Gavriel’s Fall 2017 collection. Influencers such as Emma Chamberlain contributed to this renaissance through their social media. Emma Chamberlain even produced her own line of merchandise called “High Key by Emma Chamberlain” where she sold scrunchies for $6.50 each. They were named “Grandma Scrunchies” and sold out within 29 minutes of being on the shelves. Over time, scrunchies appeared on store shelves around the nation. Everyone at school had one either on their wrist or in their hair and matching scrunchies to clothing was essential for a good outfit.
However, looking at current pop culture, scrunchies seem to have fallen off the trend train. In their place: claw clips, headbands and ribbon bows.
Claw clips in various shapes and colors have a similar appeal in their lack of hair-damaging effects. The clips can turn a normal ponytail into a uniquely shaped bun or up-do and provide an easy solution to getting hair out of the way without needing to tie it up.
Headbands have always remained a staple in hair fashion, but their forms change with time. Currently, sporty headbands are the most popular option. According to Glamour Magazine, celebrities including Jennifer Lawrence, Zendaya and Anya Taylor-Joy have all been spotted wearing a preppy black headband. The magazine also acknowledges the usefulness for headbands covering greasy roots and naming them useful for second or third-day hair, while remaining an affordable accessory.
Ribbon bows have taken over as a result of the coquette fashion trend in recent years. The ribbon adds charm to any outfit and is a staple in many people’s closets. Any outfit can be elevated through the simple addition of a dainty bow.
While scrunchies may be on the descent toward their impending downfall, some people still find them a useful hair accessory. Silk versions of scrunchies have gained popularity for their gentleness on hair. Even big and fluffy scrunchies have gained some traction in social media and many people still enjoy their comfortability.
“I think scrunchies are really cute depending on how you style them,” FHS junior Jellien Visperas said. “But nowadays, people wear claw clips which I feel like aren’t as comfortable as scrunchies.”
Despite this, however, their popularity is nowhere near the craze of the mid-2010s when scrunchies were wiped clean off store shelves.
The scrunchie will not always be a trending hair accessory in future years as new and innovative hair trends take over. Just like after the 1980s, they will eventually transition in and out of the trending cycle. When, exactly, scrunchies will face total rejection is for time to tell, but for now, they are often a second-choice option when it comes to styling hair.
