Summer is when hair accessories are most useful. Heat and humidity push many of us towards updos, braids and slicked-back styles, and one well-chosen pin or cuff can make those simple shapes look finished. This collection pairs twenty accessories with the styles they suit best. You’ll find pearl pins scattered over a wet-look updo, bobby pins crossed into patterns, a crystal crown over beach waves, cuffs on space buns, hoops threaded onto boxer braids and a printed scarf around a low ponytail.
Choose the accessory based on your hair length and texture. Clips and barrettes really stand out on bobs and short cuts. Cuffs, rings and beads need braids or twists to grip, and heavier pieces such as tasselled cuffs or crowns need some volume or a solid base to stay put. Fine, slippery hair usually needs a little texturising spray before anything will hold.
Comfort counts too, since you may wear these all day. Lightweight pieces with smooth edges are less likely to pull or snag, especially when you’re active outdoors.
1. Pretty Pearls
Pearls can feel formal, but pins in mixed sizes scattered over a glossy, wet-look updo feel fresh and modern. They add interest to a simple twisted shape. Twist your hair up in whatever way suits you, then push the pearl pins in at different angles.
Inspiration: @allenthomaswood
2. Bobby Pin-It
Plain bobby pins become a design feature when arranged in crosses, triangles or neat rows over slicked-back hair. A smooth gel finish helps the patterns stand out. Try different layouts to give the same basic style a new look each day.
Inspiration: @ysalon
3. Sticker Hair
Small stickers placed along the hairline make an unexpected, playful finish. Slick hair back with a strong-hold gel, let it set, and then add the stickers wherever you like. It is a fun option for festivals or parties rather than everyday wear.
Inspiration: @allenthomaswood
4. Add a Ribbon
Ribbons moved from the catwalk into everyday style, and a bright colour or a soft velvet makes a summery change from classic black. Tie one around a messy half-up knot and leave the ends loose. Tiny clear elastics underneath keep it secure.
Inspiration: @karennor
5. Bohemian Jewels
Hair jewellery draped across a French braid works like a necklace for your hair. Fine chains and charms fall down the back of the plait and fasten out of sight. Choose pieces with smooth clasps so they do not snag the braid.
Inspiration: @leoalthea_wang
6. Crown of Crystals
A band of crystals slips on like a headband, which makes it easy to wear on long or short hair. Here it sits over loose beach waves for a soft, boho feel. There are many stone colours and shapes to choose from to match your outfit.
Inspiration: @wanderlust_coconut
7. Bun Cuffs
Space buns lift hair off the neck on hot days, and a pair of metal cuffs around the base makes them look more polished. Pull the buns tight before adding the cuffs so they stay in place. The style suits festivals, beach days and casual outings.
Inspiration: @tmratcliff88
8. Feathered Headband
A feathered headband gives straight hair a relaxed, free-spirited look that suits outdoor summer events. Push it slightly back from the hairline so it sits comfortably. Lightly texturise the hair underneath to stop the band from sliding.
Inspiration: @wildandfreepeople
9. Headscarf
Headscarves are a timeless accessory and still feel current. A scarf in a soft natural print is tied around a low, loose ponytail here. Silk or satin is gentle on the hair and helps reduce frizz in humid weather.
Inspiration: @iam._.joy
10. Modern Clips
Clips work on long hair, but they really shine on short cuts like this blonde bob. Place them in a row, cluster them at one side or use a single statement piece. Mixing shapes and finishes keeps the look fun and personal.
Inspiration: @arrojonyc
11. Flower Crown
Unusual blooms and unexpected colour pairings update the classic flower crown. Real flowers look best and are simple to wire together yourself. Make the crown close to the event so it stays fresh, and pair it with loose, slightly messy hair.
Inspiration: @j_hartly_creations_
12. Circular Clip
One large round clip on a medium bob gives a neat, pulled-together look with a playful edge. Tuck one side behind the ear and secure it with the clip. The style is easy enough for work and fun enough for weekends.
Inspiration: @snatchstore
13. Braid Cuffs
Beads have long been a popular finish for braids, and small cuffs offer a sleeker, metallic version. Fasten them around one braid or many for a boho feel. Here they decorate curly hair with a few braided sections for contrast.
Inspiration: @jennah.jazmine
14. Hair Hoops
Small hoops threaded onto boxer braids treat the hair like another place to wear jewellery. They also look pretty on mini braids or a simple updo. Slide the hoops to sections that are tightly plaited so they stay where you want them.
Inspiration: @vvictoria_sunshine
15. Unicorn Pin
A unicorn-shaped pin adds a cheerful touch to a high bun on ginger-red hair. Novelty pins are a simple way to show personality without changing the style itself. Push the pin firmly into the base of the bun so it does not slide.
Inspiration: @leysahairandmakeup
16. Tasseled Cuff
Tasselled cuffs are a stylish summer switch from winter hats. Here, one wraps around the base of a braided bun to give it a modern finish. Choose a colour that matches your outfit, and pin the bun tightly first so the cuff has a firm base.
Inspiration: @alexsismae
17. Seeing Stars
Little star-shaped gems scattered through a twisted half-up style add sparkle without being heavy. Secure them with a firm-hold gel so they stay put in the heat. They are an easy finishing touch for summer evenings and festivals.
Inspiration: @sohohairco
18. Bow Pin
A bow pin feels sweet and feminine but also modern. It works best on long hair, where it can secure a French twist or braided updo. Place it slightly off-centre at the back for the most flattering angle.
Inspiration: @abigail_pawley
19. Stone Barrette
Stone barrettes offer a matte, natural look that is less flashy than crystals. A single piece holding a half-up style is a quick way to add a touch of texture and colour. It is easy to wear every day, at work or at the weekend.
Inspiration: @liz.colors
20. Rainbow Beads
Strings of colourful spiral beads wrapped around sections of a denim-blue bob make a fun festival look. Use just a few for a subtle touch, or add many for a bolder effect. Wrap each strand firmly and secure it with a tiny elastic.
Inspiration: @nataliesrosie
Making hair accessories stay put in the heat
- Sweat and humidity loosen smooth hair, so prep with a texture spray or dry shampoo to give pins something to grip.
- Anchor heavier clips and barrettes to a hidden pair of crossed bobby pins rather than loose strands.
- For stickers and gems along the hairline, use a firm gel and set it fully before you press them on. Remove them gently with oil instead of pulling.
- Cuffs and rings hold best on braids that are tight at the point where they sit. Add a small clear elastic underneath if they slide.
Protecting hair under scarves and crowns
Silk and satin scarves cause less friction than cotton, which helps prevent frizz and breakage along the hairline. Fresh flower crowns look lovely but wilt quickly in the sun, so assemble them close to the event and keep them cool. When choosing metal pieces, look for smooth, sealed edges; rough seams can catch and snap hair, especially on fine or chemically treated strands. Take accessories out before you sleep so the same spot isn’t under tension night after night.