When you feel like you're stuck in a hair rut, it can be oh-so-easy to jump head-first into a new colour, a haircut, or to start considering the 'F' word (fringe). But before you commit to long-term changes, consider that there is a quicker, easier, (and less drastic) alternative when you want to change things up. Quicker and easier even than reaching for your hair tools or attempting to follow an elaborate hair styling tutorial, say hello to hair accessories.
Whether it's an on-trend hair bow, an oversized scrunchie, a simple Alice band, or a pretty hair slide, a simple hair accessory can save the day when you're lacking inspiration or when your hair isn't playing ball.
Hair accessory looks are a great way to elevate an outfit or upgrade your everyday hair style to make it appropriate for the beach, a dinner date, or wedding guest attire. They're also super practical—most serving to keep your hair out of your face or off your neck, which is exactly what you need come summer. Long, loose styles are anything but appropriate for rising temperatures or beach days—a headband or hair clip will make things a lot more comfortable.
For summer 2024, we've rounded up some of our favourite hair accessory looks below. Bad (or boring) hair days will now be a thing of the past.
The Best Summer Hair Accessory Looks:
1. Skinny Ribbons
As an alternative to chunky, oversized bows, accessorise your plaits or pigtails with thin ribbons.
Get the look:
We love these gingham ribbons for summer.
2. Bow Scrunchies
Style Notes: The easiest way to accessorise your hair with a bow? Try a bow scrunchie—you'll also find they stay in place for much longer.
Get the look:
So easy to use.
3. Jewelled Barette
Style Notes: A chic and stylish way to keep hair back from your face while still wearing a loose style.
Get the look:
This is such a low-maintenance way to look put together.
4. Skinny Silk Scrunchies
Style Notes: The perfect way to secure a plait or ponytail without resorting to a regular hair tie.
Get the look:
Silk scrunchies not only look cute, but also help to prevent hair breakage and damage.
5. Headscarf
Style Notes: An accessory that looks great, keeps hair out of your face, and protects your scalp from the sun? Full marks.
Get the look:
A lightweight headscarf will see you through summer.
6. Bucket Hat
Style Notes: Everyone's favourite summer hair accessory is back for another year. We particularly love a textured version for practical summer wear.
Get the look:
We're obsessed with the bright colour and fun pattern of this crochet bucket hat. All you need now is a matching bikini.
7. Oversized Scrunchie
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with an oversized scrunchie that matches your outfit.
Get the look:
Find the right dress and this oversized linen scrunchie will be the perfect finishing touch.
8. Mini Claw Clip
Style Notes: The best way to style a half-up-half-down hairstyle? A mini claw clip never fails.
Get the look:
These summer-perfect daisy clips will also effortlessly elevate a low bun or simple ponytail.
9.Silk Scarf
Style Notes: Proving that ponytails needn't be boring... Try tying a silk scarf into the base of your ponytail or using it as a headband for an instant statement.
Get the look:
Black and white is a failsafe colour combination for summer.
10. Embellished Hair Slides
Style Notes: Embellished hair slides are not going anywhere. Jewel and pearl styles in particular are popular—they work with literally any outfit choice.
Get the look:
We love that these hair slides combine gold with pearls—in the sunlight, they're super eyecatching.
11. Satin Hair Scarf
Style Notes: A satin hair scarf looks beautiful tied around the hair—and is a great way to conceal hair that's in need of a wash. Bonus points for co-ordinating with your outfit and your eyeliner.
Get the look:
This geometric scarf will be a staple in your summer holiday outfits.
12. Metallic Claw Clip
Style Notes: A sleek and stylish take on the claw clip trend—although best for short or fine hair that doesn't require a heavy grip.
Get the look:
This fun silver design is an instant upgrade on a regular plastic claw clip.
13. Pearl Clip
Style Notes: Proof that a simple pearl hair clip elevates any outfit.
Get the look:
No one does statement hair accessories quite so well as Simone Rocha.
14. Organza Scrunchie
Style Notes: Regular hair scrunchies are more practical than pretty, so look for ones made from silk, velvet, or organza to upgrade your regular bun.
Get the look:
If you're looking for a wedding guest-appropriate hair accessory, look no further.
15. Linen Headband
Style Notes: Every bit as stylish as they are functional, a linen headband is a great way to keep hair out of your face on a hot day at the beach.
Get the look:
This neutral linen headband will match any hair colour or outfit.
16. Metallic Clips
Style Notes: No matter whether gold or silver is your vibe, high-shine metallic clips are majorly on trend this summer.
Get the look:
Wear one daisy for a chic and simple look or wear all three at a time for a statement style.
17. Alice Band
Style Notes: It's so simple, but a plain Alice band ties any outfit together, no matter the season.
Get the look:
These basic (in a good way) Alice bands come in a pack of two and cost less than £5. Win, win.
18. Statement Barrette
Style Notes: Go minimalist with a half-up, half-down look and a statement barette.
Get the look:
This fun, beaded style makes for ideal beachwear.
19. Ribbon Bow
Style Notes: A bow tied at the base of a voluminous ponytail looks so pretty with a summer dress.
Get the look:
This oversized ribbon bow is actually a hair clip, which makes applying it even easier.
20. Retro Claw Clip
Style Notes: A claw clip is a failsafe look for summer 2024. We love this 90s style pink flower clip.
Get the look:
Can you ever have enough claw clips? This bright, retro-inspired one is so fun for summer.
21. Flower Choker
Style Notes: Flower chokers are majorly on trend right now, but they also double up as chic hair accessory. Experiment with adding them to your bun or ponytail or, as seen here, to tuck your hair into a faux bob.
Get the look:
This classic linen flower choker makes for both great office wear and occasion wear.
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