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Usually when I’m coming up with outfit ideas, accessories are the last thing on my mind. It’s only when I’m scrambling for a necklace or pair of earrings as I leave the house that I wish I’d planned this out earlier. By the time I’m done stressing over everything else, I hardly have a second to think about what I’m going to do with my hair. I normally end up chucking it up in a ponytail – a reliable option, but not exactly the most exciting. That’s why this year I’m pushing myself out of my comfort zone and investing in a few key pieces to up my hair game. Without further ado, here are my must-have hair accessories of 2021.
1. Pearls
If you’ve read my article on 2021 jewellery trends, you’ll know that pearls are set to be huge again this year. Whether they’re on headbands, claw clips or hair slides, you won’t be able to miss them.
I’m a sucker for a cut-out claw clip so I just had to buy this one from ASOS. It’s got two of my favourite things – pearls and gold – what’s not to like! For something a little more decorative, I would definitely go for these Oliver Bonas clasps. They would look sooo cute on either side of a middle part or you could even stack them both on one side.
2. Chignon Hair Pins
Not a fan of the claw clip? French pins are an excellent alternative. This way you can still create all your favourite hairstyles, but with a tool that is far lighter and a bit more discrete. These look so elegant and will definitely get you a bunch of compliments!
If you’re in the US, this Kristen Ess set is a totally affordable option *cries in British*. I also really like this tortoiseshell pack which can be paired with just about anything!
3. Organza Scrunchies
Scrunchies are a super easy way of livening up any outfit. Mini, oversized, silk, velvet; they all look amazing. Even if you’re just throwing your hair up, a well-chosen scrunchie can instantly make it seem like you’ve put 10x more effort into what you’re wearing. And, luckily for us, this nostalgic trend doesn’t look like it’s dying out any time soon.
This year is all about the organza or cloud scrunchie, which is sheer and light – nothing like the thick bands we’ve been used to. Like me, you’ve probably seen them all over Pinterest and wondered where you can get your hands on them. Here are my top finds…
Monki has a great pack which comes in 3 different colours – I love the pastel tones and a black scrunchie always comes in handy. This checked Urban Outfitters set is also super cute if you’re going for a casual, preppy look.
4. Athletic Headbands
At this point you’ve probably noticed a strong ’80s/’90s theme running through this year’s trends. You won’t be surprised, then, to see wide ’80s-style headbands making a comeback. These nifty little accessories are no longer reserved for runners and gym-goers, and I, for one, am so relieved we’ll be able to wear them in public without looking like we’re going for our morning jog.
This ASOS headband looks reaaally comfortable, and at £5 it’s such a steal. For even better value, I recommend these stretch headbands from New Look which come as a two-pack and are a bit more muted.
5. Geometric Clasps
I’m obsessed with the half-up, half-down hairstyle, but I never know how to get it right. Claw clips can sometimes be way too big to hold my hair in place and I often find that, by the end of the day, the section that I’ve tied or pinned has somehow managed to break free. That’s where geometric clasps come in. These are definitely not suited to intricate up-dos, however, if you’re just looking for a way to hold a few strands of hair back, clips like these are ideal.
This simple circular clip is too adorable. I also love these triangle clasps – so cute! Matching this with a pair of gold earrings or a gold necklace will instantly tie your whole outfit together.
6. Matte Claw Clips
Over the past year, I’ve steadily built up a collection of claw clips. I love them… but there’s just one problem. They’re all gold. Fortunately, I’ve found the perfect way to add a splash of colour to my up-dos: go matte.
Matte clips are so so gorgeous and classy. The finish really makes them stand out, but not in a garish or over-the-top way. They’re also more playful than metal claw clips so you can afford to experiment with them a bit more.
This Anthropologie set is super pretty and, since it comprises four distinct colours, the clips can be matched with loads of different outfits. The retro shape makes them perfect for a 90s-inspired look and they’re small enough to work with all hair types and thicknesses. If you’re looking for something slightly bigger, this ASOS claw is one of my faves. Sage green is massive at the moment so this is a great on-trend piece.
7. ’90s Butterfly Clips
The return of the butterfly clip will have us all living our ’90s dream. Sure, these revamped mini hair claws might be a little more refined than what we were wearing as kids, but that won’t stop us from going out and buying a whole new set.
Pinning a few of these gold clips into a half-up hairstyle would look adorable and certainly add a youthful element to your outfit. If you’re a traditionalist, however, these are definitely the way to go. You can’t beat the original!
Will you be trying any of these? What are your 2021 must-have hair accessories?
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