Hair jewelry always looks great on red carpets and Instagram influencers, but it’s often trickier to pull off in real life, when ornate head jewelry has the potential to skew more 90s butterfly clips than effortless adornment. Don’t get us wrong — sporting crystal wraps or metallic chains on your braids or updos is an easy, unexpected way to add an element of boho chic or high fashion to your run-of-the-mill updo or casual ponytail. But if you’re taking the risk, you need to do it right.
We’re taking hair accessory cues from the Spring 2019 runways, which featured everything from fresh flowers to oversized, embellished headbands. According to those looks, eye-catching hair accessories are trending in a big way, literally — but that doesn’t mean you have to kick off the trend with an accessory that eclipses your head.
The trick to making hair jewelry look chic is to start with small and delicate pieces. A metallic cuff around your top knot or vintage chains woven into your braids is a step in the right direction. Here are some very doable ways to rock hair jewelry IRL.
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9 lewks which prove jewelry in your hair is totally wearable
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Oversized Pearls
New York-based luxe accessories label Lelet NY gave us some fantastic inspiration for low-key bejeweled hair. These retro pearl studs can totally be a part of your daily wear. They would go with anything from breezy resort wear to cocktail party attire.
Image: @leletny
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Hello, Halo
We love this metallic chain because it can be incorporated into almost any hairstyle. If metallic chains are a bit too punk rock for your style, opt for simpler gemstone strands or rhinestone chains to decorate your bun.
Image: @ellarie
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Simple Strand
Lucy Hale sported a very classy strand of pearls to go with her gothic ensemble at the premiere of the movie Truth or Dare. Pearl strings are a grown-up addition to your lookbook when it comes to formal events, music festivals or nights out on the town.
Image: @kristin_ess
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Olivia Palermo-Approved
Take a cue from Olivia Palermo when it comes to hair accessories and try a detailed headpiece. Olivia's Jennifer Behr headpiece works because it's a hefty, attention-attracting piece that covers most of her hair, but still whimsical and delicate.
Image: @jenniferbehr
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Heavy Metal
Chain Chain Crystal Comb, $268 at Lelet NY
This Swarovski crystal-studded number is like no hair comb you've seen before. For a fancy night out, keep your hair simple and tuck in this comb for the edgiest 'do ever.
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Go the Chanel Way
Chanel always gets extra credits with it comes to quirky elegance. Hair studs are the perfect way to add interest to a simple low bun. This bejeweled French chignon is all about taking the right risks.
Image: @mischag
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Up the Ante
Lelet NY Coco Crystal and Pearl Tassel Bobbi, $158 at Lelet NY
Complementing your hairstyle with a dangling chain is the easiest way to sass up a braid. This pearl and crystal tassel is attached to a pin so you can add instant glam to your look.
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Studded Top Knot
Ouroboros Tahoe Bun Cuff, $108 at Free People
Metallic cuffs are all you need if you've only got time for a simple bun. This one is studded with natural stones, making it the perfect low-key drama to add to your everyday wear.
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Bedazzled Braid
Not a hair pro? Opt for bejeweled or stone-encrusted bobby pins. It makes coming up with a new hairstyle much easier if you can just add a few bobby pins to a simple braid. It might look incredibly elaborate, but it's just a loose French braid set with some well-placed jewel pins.
Image: @allenthomaswood
