Hair Accessories: Clips, Scarves and Bows

Published January 13, 2026

The five-minute upgrade: how to use clips, silk scarves and bows to elevate any hairstyle.

Why Accessories Do So Much Work

A hair accessory is the fastest way to make a simple style look intentional and expensive. A claw clip turns a messy bun into a deliberate one, a silk scarf hides unwashed roots, and a bow adds instant polish to a basic ponytail. Accessories also extend second and third-day hair, letting you skip washing while still looking put-together. They're the highest-impact, lowest-effort tool in any hair routine.

Claw Clips for Every Length

Claw clips have evolved from drugstore basics into the centrepiece of effortless styling. For long hair, twist the lengths up and clip at the crown for a French-twist effect; for shoulder-length hair, a smaller clip holds a half-up or low pinned style. Matte, tortoiseshell and metallic finishes read more elevated than shiny plastic. The trick is matching clip size to hair thickness — too small and it slides out, too large and it overwhelms fine hair.

Silk Scarves and Headscarves

A silk scarf is endlessly versatile: tie it as a headband, wrap it around a ponytail base, weave it into a braid, or knot it as a full headscarf. Silk is gentle on the hair and won't snag or crease strands the way cotton or elastic can. For a retro look, fold a square scarf into a band and tie it under the hair at the nape; for a polished daytime look, knot a thin scarf around a sleek low pony. Patterned scarves also disguise greasy roots beautifully.

Bows: From Coquette to Classic

The bow has returned as a key accessory, ranging from oversized coquette ribbons to tiny, tailored satin bows. A large bow at the base of a half-up style reads romantic and feminine, while a small bow on a sleek low pony looks refined and grown-up. Velvet bows suit autumn and evening looks; satin and grosgrain feel fresh year-round. Keep the rest of the styling clean so the bow stays the focal point.

Pins, Barrettes and Embellishments

Decorative bobby pins, pearl barrettes and rhinestone clips are the finishing jewellery of hair. Use them to pin back face-framing pieces, to add sparkle to an updo, or to spell out a clean line across a slicked-back section. Cluster three or more for a deliberate, styled effect rather than scattering single pins. Pearl and gold finishes lean bridal and elegant, while colourful or star-shaped clips lean playful and Y2K.

Choosing Accessories for the Occasion

Match the accessory to the moment: minimal matte clips and thin scarves for the office, pearl barrettes and bows for weddings and dates, glitter clips and gems for festivals. Consider your outfit's colour story and pick accessories that echo, not clash with, it. When in doubt, one statement accessory beats several competing pieces. You can preview an accessorised updo or half-up style on your selfie in GlowMaxing to see what suits your face before styling for real.