Who Invented Scrunchies

Explore our adorable scrunchies, chic hair clips, and stylish barrettes today!

Ever wondered about the origins of those fabric hair ties we all know and love? Scrunchies were invented in 1963 by Philips E. Meyers, a nightclub pianist and singer from Wisconsin. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that they gained widespread popularity, thanks to Rommy Revson's reinvention and patent of the design.

We can't help but marvel at how this simple accessory has stood the test of time. From its humble beginnings to becoming a fashion staple, the scrunchie has seen its fair share of trends. It's fascinating to think about how a small piece of elastic wrapped in fabric could make such a big impact on our hairstyles and wardrobes.

Whether you're a fan of vintage looks or modern styles, there's no denying the scrunchie's enduring appeal. We've seen them adorning ponytails, buns, and even wrists as fashionable bracelets. Their versatility and comfort have kept them relevant for decades, proving that sometimes the simplest ideas are the most brilliant.

Key Takeaways

• Scrunchies were invented in 1963 but gained popularity in the 1980s
• They've evolved from a basic hair tie to a fashion statement
• Scrunchies remain popular due to their versatility and comfort

The Birth of Scrunchies

Scrunchies, those cute and comfy hair accessories we all love, have a fascinating origin story. Let's explore how this '80s icon came to be and who we have to thank for it.

Rommy Revson: The Inventor

We can't talk about scrunchies without mentioning Rommy Revson. This nightclub singer-turned-inventor changed the hair game forever in 1986. Frustrated with the damage regular elastic bands were doing to her locks, Rommy had a lightbulb moment. She grabbed her sewing machine and stitched some fabric around a piece of elastic. Just like that, the first scrunchie was born!

Rommy named her creation "Scunci" after her toy poodle. It was cute, colorful, and oh-so-comfy. We girls quickly fell in love with this new hair accessory. It was perfect for keeping our hair up without the headaches or breakage.

Patent and Trademark

Rommy wasn't just creative - she was smart too. She patented her invention in 1987, making sure her brainchild was protected. The official patent described it as a "novelty hair band." But we all know it as the scrunchie we can't live without.

The trademark "Scunci" was registered, but it didn't stop there. Other companies started making similar hair ties, and the name "scrunchie" became popular. It's believed this name came from the scrunched-up fabric around the elastic.

Soon, scrunchies were everywhere. From high school hallways to aerobics classes, these fabric-covered elastics became a must-have accessory. We saw them in every color and pattern imaginable, matching our outfits and expressing our style.

Scrunchies Through the Decades

Scrunchies have ridden the fashion rollercoaster for decades, going from must-have accessories to fashion faux pas and back again. Let's take a trip down memory lane and see how these fabric-covered hair ties have evolved over the years.

The 1980s and 90s Heyday

Remember when scrunchies were the coolest thing ever? We sure do! The 80s and 90s were their golden age. Every girl had a collection in every color imaginable. We'd match them to our outfits or wear neon ones for a pop of color.

Celebs like Madonna and Paula Abdul rocked scrunchies on stage, making them even more popular. They weren't just for ponytails either - we'd wear them on our wrists as bracelets too. Talk about multi-tasking fashion!

By the mid-90s, scrunchies had become a staple in every teen's wardrobe. From velvet to sequins, the bigger and bolder, the better. We even had scrunchie-making parties. Good times!

Y2K and Beyond: The Comeback

As the new millennium rolled in, scrunchies took a backseat. They were suddenly "so last century." But fashion is cyclical, and what goes around comes around!

In the late 2010s, scrunchies made a surprising comeback. This time, they're not just nostalgic - they're trendy again. We've seen them on runways and red carpets, proving they're more than just a 90s throwback.

Today's scrunchies come in luxe fabrics like silk and satin. They're gentler on our hair too - a win-win! We're loving the oversized bow styles and the mini versions for those cute half-up dos.

Brands are getting creative with scrunchies, adding charms or making them part of hair accessories sets. It's like the 90s, but with a modern twist. Who knew our favorite childhood hair tie would become cool again?

Cultural Impact and Influences

Scrunchies have left an indelible mark on fashion and pop culture. These iconic hair accessories have shaped trends, influenced celebrities, and even sparked social movements.

Pop Culture and Celebrities

We've seen scrunchies grace the heads of countless stars over the years. In the 90s, they were a must-have accessory for teen idols like Britney Spears and the Olsen twins. More recently, celebs like Selena Gomez and Bella Hadid have rocked scrunchies on red carpets and in street style looks.

TV shows and movies have also played a big role in the scrunchie's cultural impact. Who can forget Carrie Bradshaw's iconic line in Sex and the City: "No woman who works at W Magazine would be caught dead at a hip downtown restaurant wearing a scrunchie!"

The VSCO Girl Phenomenon

In 2019, scrunchies became the symbol of a whole new subculture: VSCO girls. Named after the photo editing app, this trend took over social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

VSCO girls were known for their laid-back, beachy style, which always included an arm full of colorful scrunchies. The trend sparked countless memes and even influenced teen slang, with phrases like "and I oop" and "sksksk" becoming synonymous with the VSCO girl aesthetic.

While the trend may have faded, it cemented the scrunchie's place in Gen Z fashion history. It also introduced a whole new generation to the versatility and fun of this classic hair accessory.

How Scrunchies Are Made

Scrunchies have become a fashion staple, and their production process is quite fascinating. Let's take a peek behind the scenes to see how these cute hair accessories come to life.

Materials and Sustainability

We love that scrunchies can be made from a variety of fabrics. Cotton, velvet, and satin are popular choices, but we're seeing more eco-friendly options too. Recycled polyester and organic cotton are gaining traction as sustainable alternatives.

Many brands are now using deadstock fabrics to reduce waste. It's amazing how leftover materials from clothing production can find new life as adorable hair ties! Some companies are even experimenting with biodegradable elastics to make scrunchies more earth-friendly.

We're excited to see scrunchie makers prioritizing sustainability. It's a win-win - we get cute accessories, and the planet gets a little love too!

Modern Manufacturing Processes

The scrunchie-making process has come a long way since the 1980s. Today, it's a mix of artisanal craftsmanship and high-tech efficiency.

First, fabric is cut into long strips. Then, elastic is threaded through a fabric tube. This step can be done by hand or machine, depending on the manufacturer. Next comes the fun part - the fabric is gathered to create that signature scrunchie poof.

Some brands use computerized sewing machines for precise stitching. Others stick to traditional methods for a handmade touch. Either way, quality control is key to ensure each scrunchie is perfect.

We're amazed by how quickly scrunchies can be produced now. Large-scale manufacturers can churn out thousands in a day! But there's still room for small businesses and DIY enthusiasts in the scrunchie world.

Styling with Scrunchies

Scrunchies are versatile hair accessories that can elevate any look. We'll explore fun ways to incorporate them into various hairstyles and even use them as fashionable accents beyond your locks.

Hairdo Ideas

Let's start with the classic high ponytail. We love wrapping a scrunchie around our ponytail for a cute, retro vibe. For a more polished look, try a low bun with a silk scrunchie – it's perfect for both office and date nights.

Braids are another great option. We've been obsessed with the half-up, half-down style lately. Just braid a section of hair from each side, join them at the back, and secure with a scrunchie. It's effortlessly chic!

For those with curly hair, try the pineapple method. Gather your curls on top of your head and use a large, soft scrunchie to hold them in place. It's a great way to protect your curls while you sleep.

Accessorizing Beyond Hair

Scrunchies aren't just for your hair! We've been spotting them as trendy wrist accessories lately. They add a pop of color to any outfit and are super handy when you need to tie your hair up on the go.

Some of our favorite ways to wear scrunchies as accessories include:

• Tying them around bag handles for a personalized touch
• Using them as makeshift bracelets with stacked bangles
• Attaching them to keychains for a fun, dangly effect

We've even seen fashion-forward folks using oversized scrunchies as anklets with sandals or sneakers. It's all about getting creative and making the trend your own!

Shopping for Scrunchies

Scrunchies are a fun and versatile accessory that can elevate any hairstyle. We love how they come in so many colors, patterns, and materials to suit every taste and occasion.

Finding the Perfect Fit

When shopping for scrunchies, size matters! We've found that smaller scrunchies work best for thin hair or updos, while larger ones are great for thick locks or loose styles. Fabric choice is key too - silk and satin scrunchies are gentler on hair and reduce frizz, perfect for bedtime wear. For workouts, we opt for absorbent cotton or terry cloth options.

Don't forget to consider the elastic strength. A good scrunchie should hold your hair securely without pulling or causing headaches. We always give them a little stretch test in-store to check durability.

Trendy Brands and Boutiques

The scrunchie market is booming, and we're spoiled for choice! Popular brands like Kitsch and Slip offer luxe options in premium fabrics. For budget-friendly picks, we love browsing Claire's or Forever 21's colorful selections.

Online, Etsy is a treasure trove of unique, handmade scrunchies. We've scored some adorable vintage-inspired designs there. For the eco-conscious, brands like Kooshoo create sustainable scrunchies from organic cotton and natural dyes.

Local boutiques often stock scrunchies from indie designers. We've found some real gems this way - supporting small businesses is always in style!

Frequently Asked Questions

Scrunchies have had quite the journey from their invention to becoming a fashion staple. Let's explore some burning questions about these fab hair accessories.

Who's the mastermind behind the scrunchie's creation?

Rommy Revson is the genius who invented the scrunchie back in 1986. She wanted a gentle hair tie that wouldn't damage her locks, so she got creative with her sewing machine and boom! The scrunchie was born.

What era saw scrunchies becoming a staple in fashion scenes?

The late '80s and early '90s were the golden age of scrunchies. We saw them everywhere, from high school hallways to red carpets. Madonna, Paula Abdul, and other icons rocked them like nobody's business.

Could you spill the tea on who brought scrunchies back in vogue?

VSCO girls played a huge role in the scrunchie comeback around 2019. These trendy teens made scrunchies a must-have accessory, wearing them not just in their hair but also on their wrists.

What's the deets behind the original name for scrunchies?

Would you believe scrunchies were first called "Scunci"? Rommy Revson named them after her toy poodle, Scunci. The name later evolved into the "scrunchie" we all know and love today.

Why has the scrunchie become a symbol of relationship status in modern culture?

It's a cute trend that started on TikTok. Giving your scrunchie to your crush or partner became a sweet way to show you're taken. It's like the modern version of wearing your boyfriend's jacket!

How did the humble scrunchie go from hair accessory to wrist statement?

We started wearing scrunchies on our wrists for convenience, but it quickly became a fashion statement. It's an easy way to add a pop of color to any outfit, plus it's always there when we need to tie up our hair in a pinch.