It feels like accessory trends have never been so vibrant and diverse. We are decorating our bodies with statement pieces made from clay, wood, glass, and even real flowers, while adorning our nails, noses, and lips with culturally rooted jewels. Next to all of that, the rise of hair accessories might seem almost boringly normal, but don’t be too quick to judge: it may well be the easiest way to refresh a look — no scissors or colour required.

Today, designers treat hair clips, pins, and scrunchies much like jewelry. They have little in common with the naïve pieces we wore as children, or with over-the-top bridal styles. In this edit, I have rounded up hair accessories that work for real life, plus a small dose of standout pieces for those moments when you are feeling extra.

The days when hair accessories were meant to simply hold your hair in place and stay as invisible as possible are long gone, though getting used to that shift can take a moment — I get it. If you are ready to introduce a bit more edge into your wardrobe but want to keep things toned-down and neat, leather hair pieces are a safe place to start.

Minimal by nature, they still add depth and texture to a look without stealing all the attention. Try simple, single-toned scrunchies, headbands, or clips to ease into it.

I will never get tired of saying that silk scarfs and twillies are some of the most versatile accessories you can have in your wardrobe. The same goes for your hair: they can tie up a ponytail, double as a headband, or work as a bandana. The possibilities are endless — just have fun with it and let your creativity do the rest.

Speaking of bandanas, they are another accessory worth considering — just skip the predictable fabric version if you want to make a statement. Opt for metallic take instead: built from chain links or reimagined as a cage-like headband, it moves firmly into jewelry territory and feels modern and edgy when paired with simple hair styles.

Another painless entry point for clean girls and minimalists, hair cuffs are a truly effortless, jewelry-like addition to your look. Arched around the hair like rings on your fingers, they add polish without trying too hard (and look mind-blowing when stacked together!)

While perfectly aligned pieces do look clean and polished, they can also feel a bit too intentional. The new appeal lies in hair accessories that are deliberately misplaced: slides stacked on top of each other, clips worn off-centre, combs tucked in as if you added them on the go. But the result is the kind of chaos you would actually want to embrace.

Last, but not least, an upgrade that is anything but subtle: dramatic headpieces that steal the spotlight. Think metallic tassels, crystal detailing, layering and bold silhouettes that frame the hair and face.

The key to getting the styling right is contrast. To avoid looking overdone, make them the central piece and pair your headpieces with simple hairstyles, minimal make-up and neat, elegant outfits.