When Gypsea Loop founder Tracy Morris set out to solve a small but frustrating problem, she never imagined it would turn into a viral sensation, an award-nominated brand, and national recognition in just 12 months.

This week, Tracy was named one of Inside Small Business’s Top 50 Small Business Leaders for 2025, recognised for her innovation, resilience, and meaningful community impact.

And it all began with… a hair tie.

From on-camera frustration to fashion innovation

“As a travel presenter, I was constantly on stage or in front of the camera – and every time I looked back at the footage or photos, there it was… that ugly black hair tie digging into my wrist and ruining the shot,” Tracy says.

“It was such a small but constant frustration. I thought, surely other women are dealing with this too. So I decided to do something about it.”

With no background in manufacturing and a tight budget, Tracy brought her idea to life by finding a freelance designer in Uzbekistan on Upwork, turning her sketches into 3D files. The first prototype? Printed using a friend’s 12-year-old son’s 3D printer.

A sleek solution women didn’t know they needed

The result was the Gypsea Loop Hair Tie Bangle – a stylish, water-resistant bangle with a hidden groove that discreetly holds a hair tie. No more tight elastics digging into your skin, clashing with your outfit, or ruining your favourite moments.

Since launching in May 2024, the response has been nothing short of incredible.

Here’s what’s happened in just one year:

• Went viral on social media many times - with one video reaching over 18 million views!!
•  Media features by many, including 7News, New Idea, and Woman’s Day for major stories and gift guides
• Finalist for Product of the Year (in the SHE-com Awards) and Outstanding New Business (in the Business Hunter Awards 2024 and 2025)
• Named one of Australia’s Top 50 Small Business Leaders for 2025
• Launched our limited-edition Rose Gold Bangle - that sold out!

“Being recognised among Australia’s most impactful small business leaders was a huge but wonderful shock,” says Tracy.

“This brand is so much more than just a product – it’s a movement around comfort, confidence, and conscious fashion.”

Fashion that gives back

True to its coastal roots, Gypsea Loop is also a brand with heart. A portion of every bangle sold contributes to ocean conservation projects – a reflection of Tracy’s passion for sustainability and her years exploring the world as a travel journalist.

What’s next for Gypsea Loop?

With loyal customers across Australia and overseas, Tracy has built a brand that blends beauty, practicality and purpose – all while juggling school runs and family life.

As Gypsea Loop heads into its second year, the journey is far from over. Plans are underway to expand the product range, explore retail partnerships, and keep storytelling at the heart of everything.

“People want to know who’s behind the brand,” says Tracy. “That connection is what turns a product into something meaningful. I still get messages from women who say their bangle has changed their daily routine - it’s those little moments that keep me motivated to keep growing.”