As any viewer of Girls knows, Shoshanna is the patron saint of the hair accessory. This season, which ended this week, has seen her adopt a diamante barrette worn on the side of a pin-neat bob – something that looks adorable on a twentysomething. But how to wear hair accessories as a grown-up? In a season in which even the austere Celine has entered the world of hair-do-decorating with a gold ring barrette, here are five tips for 2015.
1. Less is more
One fun hairgrip in a sleek hairstyle goes a long way. Anything more “statement” can look at bit Gwen Stefani in the nineties. Avoid those multiple buns at all costs. See Prada’s autumn collection for low-key styling tips.
2. Placement is key
You don’t have to see your hair accessory to get the best out of it. Putting one over a ponytail is a subtle way to brighten up a two-second hairstyle. Monki has cute silver clips with a spirit of Madonna’s 1990 Blond Ambition high ponytail – and that’s a nineties reference that gets a tick from us.
3. No flowers
Far too twee. Unless you’re at Glastonbury or a bridesmaid at a wedding there is no excuse for this. Even then, it’s best avoided. Flowers don’t look romantic, or like you’ve been frolicking through fields. Especially if you’re jammed in a tube train on rush hour.
4. Keep the rest of your outfit pared down
A bit of kooky in your hair – something like Katie Hillier’s rabbit pins – is allowed as long as you avoid Cyndi Lauper-esque prom dresses or similar. Instead, a grey marl sweatshirt and bunny pin has a pleasing juxtaposition.
5. Cropped hair and a hairband is a good formula
Sounds weird, looks good – unexpectedly chic, in fact. Keep the band skinny and probably meta,l rather than a fabric scarf-type design. Warehouse’s rope detail one is a winner.
