Hair Accessories for Special Occasions: How to Choose
- Words by
- Julio Arco
- Published
- Reading
- 4 min
The simplest rule for choosing hair accessories for a special occasion: pick the hairstyle first, then let the outfit and the event decide how much shine you add. An updo takes a comb or pins, loose waves take a clip or vine, and a sleek low bun takes a jeweled headband.
Formal events call for metallics, pearls and crystals. Daytime and outdoor events suit softer, lighter pieces. Below is how to sort the options for different hair, outfits and occasions.
What are the most popular hair accessories?
Among popular hair accessories for dressed-up looks, these are the types you will see most often:
- Hairpins and bobby pins with pearls or crystals, which add small points of sparkle and hold sections in place.
- Combs, good for securing an updo or adding detail to loose hair.
- Headbands, from slim jeweled bands to padded velvet ones.
- Claw clips and barrettes, which hold hair back and can be plain metal or heavily embellished.
- Hair vines and chains, flexible pieces that drape over waves, braids or buns.
- Tiaras and crowns, mostly for brides and black-tie events.
- Satin ribbons and dressed-up scrunchies, which suit semi-formal occasions.
For more on how these types sit with everyday clothes, see how to pair hair accessories with modern outfits.
How do you match an accessory to your hairstyle?
Start with where the hair sits. A piece needs something to grip, so a comb works best against a twist or bun, a barrette suits a half-up style, and pins disappear into braids.
For hair accessories for long hair, vines and chains look best draped over waves or wrapped around a braid, because the length gives them room to fall. Long hair also carries the weight of a heavy clip better when it is pinned at the crown.
If your hair is short, you still have plenty of options. Headbands, small clips and combs all work, and these hair accessories for short hair go into more detail.
Which colors and materials work for hair accessories for women at formal events?
Through the lens of evidence-based design, I'd look at material before color. Pearl, matte gold and polished crystal can all be "neutral", yet each catches light differently, and the surface changes how the color reads next to your hair and skin.
- Gold, silver and pearl pair with almost any outfit and suit a formal updo.
- Jewel tones such as emerald, red or sapphire work as a single color accent against a black or neutral dress.
- Blush, lavender and mint suit weddings and garden parties, where the mood is soft.
- Crystal and rhinestone add sparkle for cocktail parties; rhinestone hair accessories run from bridal to casual.
As an architect trained in evidence-based design, I'd keep the rest of the look quieter when the accessory is bold. One strong element is easier for the eye to read than three competing ones. If your dress has beading or a rich fabric, match the metal in your accessory to your jewelry. Velvet and beaded accents are worth a look for evening events.
What should you wear for each occasion?
Weddings
For a formal evening wedding, try a rhinestone comb or a tiara with an updo. For a rustic outdoor one, a floral vine with loose curls suits a flowing dress. Check the wedding's theme, and avoid anything that competes with the bride.
Galas and black-tie events
A jeweled headband with a polished low bun is hard to beat. A metallic barrette also holds a dramatic side-swept style in place.
Cocktail parties
Crystal clips on a wavy half-up style look playful but finished. A velvet ribbon on a high ponytail works with a fitted dress.
Dinner dates
Pearl pins in loose waves, or a blush comb in a braided bun, keep things soft without looking costumey.
Festivals and outdoor events
A floral vine over long waves or a feather barrette on a braid fits the setting. For feathers, see how to make feather hair accessories work.
Which hair accessory trends are worth trying?
Trend pieces right now include padded oversized headbands, several small barrettes layered together, crystal details and metallic hair chains. They look best when everything else is simple. For a wider look at the shift from bands to clips, read this trend roundup.
Classics hold up in any year: pearl pins, floral accents, gold or silver combs, delicate tiaras and satin ribbons. If you are unsure, a classic is the lower-risk choice for photos.
How do you keep hair and accessories comfortable all day?
- Try the full hairstyle and accessory a few days ahead, so you know it holds.
- Choose lightweight pieces if you will wear them for hours. Heavy clips can pull on the scalp.
- Anchor vines and chains with small bobby pins hidden in the hair.
- Detangle wet hair gently. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that hair is delicate when wet, so it recommends a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush.
If your scalp is sore or hair is breaking, check with a dermatologist before wearing tight styles. Outfit planning matters too: our guide to capsule wardrobe basics for special occasions helps you decide the accessory last. A statement clutch can take the spotlight if you want a plainer hair piece.
Frequently asked questions
What are some good accessories to put in my hair?
Pins, combs, barrettes and headbands are the easiest starting points. Pick pearl or metallic ones for formal events and ribbons or floral pieces for relaxed ones.
Can I wear more than one hair accessory at once?
Yes. Layering a few small clips or pins in the same metal looks intentional, especially at cocktail parties. Keep other jewelry simple.
How do I keep a hair vine in place?
Anchor the ends with small bobby pins that match your hair color. Test it by moving your head before leaving the house.
Are fresh flowers a good hair accessory?
They look romantic but wilt over a long event. Choose sturdy blooms or faux flowers if you need them to last all day.
Filed under Accessory Trends
