C.O. Bigelow – The Oldest Apothecary in America – Established 1838

How to Style Your Hair with a Scrunchie for a Night Out

How to Style Your Hair with a Scrunchie for a Night Out

By C.O. Bigelow – The Oldest Apothecary in America – Established 1838 | Published: 2026-07-31

Category: How-to Guides

Elevate your evening look with these elegant scrunchie hairstyles. From sleek low buns to curly updos, discover step-by-step tips for a dressy, polished appearance.

When you're planning a night out, your hair can make or break your look. While sleek straight styles and intricate braids have their place, there's a surprisingly chic accessory that adds both comfort and charm: the humble scrunchie. Once relegated to lazy days, scrunchies have made a major comeback, and they're now a staple in the world of evening fashion. With the right technique, a scrunchie can transform your hair into an elegant updo or a soft, romantic style that turns heads.

At C.O. Bigelow, we believe in the power of simple, effective beauty tools. That's why we're sharing our favorite scrunchie hairstyles for a night out. Whether you have long, short, straight, or curly hair, these looks are versatile, easy to achieve, and perfect for any special occasion. Plus, we'll recommend some of our favorite products to keep your hair looking its best from pre-party prep to the final dance.

Why Scrunchies Are Perfect for Evening Events

Scrunchies are no longer just for gym sessions or lazy Sundays. Today's scrunchies come in luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and satin, which not only look elegant but are also gentle on your hair. Unlike tight elastic bands that can cause breakage and creases, scrunchies provide a soft hold that protects your strands while adding a touch of sophistication to your ensemble.

For a night out, a scrunchie can be the focal point of your hairstyle or a subtle accent that ties your whole look together. Whether you choose a classic black velvet scrunchie to match your little black dress or a vibrant red one to make a statement, the possibilities are endless. Plus, scrunchies are incredibly versatile—they can be used to create sleek ponytails, messy buns, half-up styles, and even elegant chignons.

  • Choose a scrunchie that complements your outfit's color and texture.
  • Silk or satin scrunchies reduce friction and prevent hair breakage.
  • Use a scrunchie with a bit of volume to add instant lift to your hairstyle.

Prepping Your Hair for a Long Night

Before you start styling, it's essential to prep your hair to ensure it looks fresh and stays in place. Start with clean, dry hair. If your hair is prone to oiliness, or if you're refreshing a style from the day before, a dry shampoo can be a lifesaver. Our Between Days Dry Shampoo is perfect for adding volume and absorbing excess oil, leaving your hair looking and feeling clean. Simply spray it at the roots, wait a minute, and brush through to distribute the product.

Between Days Dry Shampoo
Between Days Dry Shampoo

For added texture and hold, consider using a styling product that gives your hair grip. A texturizing spray or a light mousse can help your updo stay put without feeling stiff. If you have curly hair, you might want to define your curls with a curl-enhancing cream before pulling them into a scrunchie style. The key is to work with your hair's natural texture to create a look that feels effortless and chic.

  • Refresh second-day hair with Between Days Dry Shampoo to add volume and absorb oil.
  • Use a texturizing spray for better grip when creating updos.
  • For curly hair, apply a curl cream to define curls before styling.

Elegant Scrunchie Updo for Evening

One of the most sophisticated ways to wear a scrunchie for a night out is in a low, sleek updo. This style works beautifully for formal events, dinner dates, or any occasion where you want to look polished. To achieve this look, start by brushing your hair back and gathering it at the nape of your neck. Secure it with a scrunchie, making sure it's snug but not too tight. Then, twist the ponytail and wrap it around the base to form a bun, tucking the ends underneath. Use bobby pins to secure the bun in place, and gently pull out a few face-framing strands for a soft, romantic effect.

This elegant scrunchie look is not only chic but also incredibly practical. It keeps your hair off your face and neck, allowing you to dance, dine, and mingle without worrying about stray hairs. To add a touch of glamour, choose a scrunchie with a bit of sparkle or a jeweled accent. You can also pair this updo with statement earrings to draw attention to your face and neckline.

  • Sleek low buns with scrunchies are perfect for formal events.
  • Twist and wrap the ponytail to create a neat bun.
  • Pull out a few strands to soften the look.

Dressy Scrunchie Hairstyle for Curly Hair

If you have curly hair, you might think that scrunchies are not for you, but that's far from the truth. In fact, scrunchies are a curly girl's best friend because they don't snag or pull on delicate curls. For a night out, try a high ponytail with a scrunchie, letting your curls cascade down. This style is playful yet elegant, and it shows off your natural texture beautifully. To add extra volume, gently tease the crown of your hair before pulling it back, or use a volumizing product.

Another stunning option for curly hair is a pineapple updo, where you gather all your hair at the very top of your head and secure it with a scrunchie. This not only looks adorable but also protects your curls while you dance the night away. For a more formal look, you can create a curly half-up style, where the top half of your hair is pulled back with a scrunchie, and the rest flows freely. This style is versatile and frames your face beautifully.

To keep your curls defined and frizz-free, consider using a curl-defining product before styling. A lightweight gel or cream will help your curls hold their shape without weighing them down. And remember, the scrunchie you choose can add a pop of color or a touch of elegance to your curly style.

  • High ponytails with scrunchies are perfect for curly hair, preventing snags.
  • Try a pineapple updo to protect curls while dancing.
  • Half-up styles with a scrunchie are elegant and face-framing.

Accessorizing Your Scrunchie Look

The right accessories can elevate your scrunchie hairstyle from simple to stunning. Consider adding delicate hair pins or a decorative comb to complement your scrunchie. You can also play with different scrunchie sizes and fabrics to create different moods. For a boho-chic vibe, opt for a floral-print scrunchie or one with a velvet texture. For a modern, sleek look, choose a satin scrunchie in a neutral tone like black, navy, or blush.

Another way to accessorize is to coordinate your scrunchie with your jewelry. If you're wearing gold earrings, choose a scrunchie with gold tones or a metallic sheen. If your outfit features a bold color, pick a scrunchie in a complementary shade. The key is to have fun and let your personal style shine through.

Don't forget about the rest of your hair care routine. A night out often means heat styling, dancing, and late hours, which can take a toll on your hair. To keep your locks healthy and shiny, use a nourishing conditioner regularly. Our Bond Building Conditioner - 6.7 oz is designed to strengthen and repair damaged hair, leaving it soft and manageable. Incorporating it into your routine will ensure your hair looks its best, no matter how you style it.

Bond Building Conditioner - 6.7 oz
Bond Building Conditioner - 6.7 oz
  • Coordinate your scrunchie with your jewelry and outfit colors.
  • Add hair pins or a decorative comb for extra flair.
  • Use a strengthening conditioner like Bond Building Conditioner - 6.7 oz to maintain hair health.

Scrunchie Hairstyles for Every Hair Length

Scrunchies are incredibly versatile and work for all hair lengths, from short bobs to long, flowing locks. If you have short hair, you can still rock a scrunchie by creating a half-up style or a tiny top knot. For medium-length hair, a low ponytail with a scrunchie is a classic choice that never goes out of style. And for long hair, the possibilities are endless: high ponytails, messy buns, braided styles, and more.

The key to making a scrunchie work for your hair length is to choose the right size. Smaller scrunchies are ideal for short or thin hair, while larger, more voluminous scrunchies are perfect for long, thick hair. You can also experiment with different placement—high, low, side, or center—to find the most flattering look for your face shape and outfit.

For a night out, don't be afraid to try a style you've never worn before. A scrunchie is a low-risk way to change up your look, and if you don't love it, you can easily redo it. Plus, with so many scrunchie options available, you can match your hairstyle to your mood and the occasion.

  • Choose scrunchie size based on hair length and thickness.
  • Experiment with placement: high, low, side, or center.
  • Scrunchies are low-risk—try a new style and redo if needed.

Product Recommendations for a Flawless Finish

To ensure your scrunchie hairstyle stays put all night, it's important to use the right products. A good hairspray can provide a flexible hold without making your hair stiff. Look for a formula that offers medium hold and a natural finish. Additionally, a shine serum or spray can add a glossy, healthy sheen to your hair, making it look more polished.

If you're planning to curl your hair before styling with a scrunchie, use a heat protectant to prevent damage. And if you're going for a sleek, straight look, a smoothing cream can help tame flyaways and add shine. Remember, the goal is to look effortlessly chic, so don't overdo it with products—less is often more.

At C.O. Bigelow, we offer a range of hair care products to suit every need. From our Bond Building Conditioner - 6.7 oz to our Between Days Dry Shampoo, we have everything you need to prep, style, and finish your scrunchie look. Explore our collection to find your new favorites.

  • Use a flexible-hold hairspray to keep your style in place.
  • Apply a heat protectant before using hot tools.
  • Finish with a shine serum for a glossy, polished look.

With these scrunchie hairstyles and tips, you're ready to rock a night out with confidence and style. Whether you opt for an elegant updo, a playful ponytail, or a romantic half-up style, a scrunchie is the perfect accessory to elevate your look. Don't forget to prep your hair with quality products like Between Days Dry Shampoo and Bond Building Conditioner - 6.7 oz to keep it healthy and beautiful. Now, go ahead and have fun experimenting with your scrunchie—your hair will thank you!

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