Whether your hair is long or short, curly or straight, thick or thin, or somewhere in between, we can all agree that a cute accessory adds a lot of flair. The right one elevates your overall look and outfit.
Some of us are old enough to remember the “feather” fad of the early 2000s, while others have their finger on the pulse of the latest hair trends via social media. Baubles like butterfly hair clips are back in vogue as Gen Z unearths past styles and renews their popularity tenfold. Creative takes on well-loved classics (such as the Smush scrunchie!) make for particularly fun and functional hair tools.
If you consider yourself less in-the-know when it comes to fashion hair accessories (what’s in? what’s out?), wander no further: here’s a comprehensive list of the most current “in” pieces.
1. Scrunchies
When you think of hair accessories, your mind probably goes right to hair ties and scrunchies. Ours too! These everyday items are the epitome of utility, going from a crevice in a purse or backpack or pocket onto your wrist and up into your hair in a snap (that’s just one of the reasons why we created our own, the Smush scrunchie!).
The versatility of a scrunchie is undeniable. For the majority of us, it’s the first accessory we grab to secure our hair. Despite how fickle trends tend to be, the scrunchie will be a forever favorite.
2. Claw Clips
A quick visit to the hairstyling side of TikTok proves that claw clips have a serious hold on our collective culture. At this point, they’ve been around since the late 1980s, when the Frenchman Christian Potut invented what is now an essential accessory for so many people.
They can be dressed up or down and work well with all hair types. There are a myriad of ways to wear the timeless claw clip, which is perhaps why it’s cherished by adults and teens alike.
Our favorite claw clip company is Chunks!
3. Headbands
Another hair accessory being reclaimed from generations ago is the headband. Both the hard plastic and soft fabric (“jersey”) versions are becoming part of the modern fashionista’s lexicon.
Bejeweled, floral, sparkly, etc. – any iteration you imagine, there’s a headband for it. Even the zigzag style reminiscent of ‘90s girlhood is making a vibrant comeback thanks to reimagined uses (the nostalgia is real).
Though this particular accessory isn’t everybody's cup of tea (“… love these but my forehead says no”), it’s still super handy!
Some fav hard headbands are spa bubble headbands you can buy on amazon or your local Utla, an absolute #GRWM must for keeping your hair out of the way while getting glam or washing the day away.
4. Hair Beads
Wearing literal jewelry in your hair sounds like a pretty dreamy accessory. We’re increasingly seeing decorative hair beads in the spotlight as a means of artistic expression; they look especially gorgeous on natural hair, coiled hair, or at the end of braided hair.
Hair beading involves cuffing strands of hair with plastic or metal beads, usually colorful or complementary to each other, and weaving those beads into your hair.
5. Scarves/Bandanas/Head Wraps
The ‘60s and ‘70s brought about a surge in silky scarves and patterned bandanas, and that trend is on the rise again. They’re great for covering up on those “bad hair days” while complimenting the rest of your ensemble in the process (matching a hair scarf with an equally playful belt or purse = adorable!).
Styling is key with these accessories, because they really shine in chic twists or similarly complex fashions, so it might be necessary to watch a few step-by-step videos if you want to truly capture that runway-worthy effect of a cool scarf or bandana.
Fav brand You Go Natural
6. Funky Barrettes
Who doesn’t love a glittery clip-in or flower-shaped hair accessory? Barrettes provide an extra bit of whimsy, keeping hair out of your eyes or securing those annoying fly-aways with ease. Just as easily, they disappear left and right (looking at you, bobby pins).
Nonetheless, barrettes have a permanent place in our haircare routine for how helpful and convenient they can be. They’re one of the most prominent fashion hair accessories out there, and rightfully so.
7. Bows
Big, dramatic hair bows stole the show at this year’s Met Gala after several celebrities rocked this accessory with their dazzling, designer-themed outfits. Bows can be worn to achieve that quintessential girl-next-door look or simply to hold back your hair in an ornamental way. Here’s our fav brand rocking large bows, Room Shop!
A bow is a nice addition to hair that’s already pinned up. They do bring a very specific vibe to certain attire, since they could appear slightly childish or immature depending on how you wear them (it’s giving “Disney princess”), so it’s best to be strategic with these little beauties!
Go for the 2-in-1 Option
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with a Smush scrunchie on your wrist or in your hair. It’s the perfect accessory, whether you’re going to the gym, a party, or anywhere you feel the need to both look cute and utilize a sensory regulation tool. It’s fidgetwear made for everyone.
Fashion hair accessories change constantly due to ever-evolving trends, but our neurodivergent-friendly scrunchie stands out among the pack. It’s useful. It’s sensory-stimulating. It’s the moment. Get your Smush scrunchie today!
