How hair adornments became the new statement earrings

Georgina Lucas

Updated Mon, February 26, 2018 at 12:58 PM UTC

Alexa Chung wears pearl clips at LFW February 2018 - GC Images

The answer to upping the ante on your outfit? For the last few seasons the go-to solution has been statement earrings. But lately the focus has begun to shift up a little. While ear adornment still has cachet, it is the statement hair accessory which suddenly has the frisson of feeling very now.

First spotted on the runways for SS18 during last September’s fashion month, hair decorating has swiftly established itself as spring’s hottest accessorising trend.

Here's how to approach the look...

Add pearls

The oyster’s precious gem has undergone a fashion renaissance, emerging as a modern finishing. Look to Simone Rocha’s Spring/ Summer ‘18 show where ethereal-looking models walked the runway in layers of silk, their side parted hair held off their face with a double whammy of pearl hair clips. Part Margot Tenenbaum, part Grace Kelly, the delicate adornment served to both frame and decorate the face.

During London Fashion Week, Alexa Chung opted for a similar arrangement in her shoulder-length hair when she appeared at the JW Anderson show with two pearl hairclips holding back elegant waves (see lead image). The key? A dramatic side parting, and forego the earrings (or match them a la Rocha).

Take a bow

There’s a hint of nostalgia about the hair bow- recalling school time ribbons and 1990s styling. Spotted on a host of celebrities from Millie Bobby Brown (officially a hair trend setter - see her jewelled flowers for the VMAs in 2017) to Christina Hendricks.

bow - Credit: Instagram/ Martha Ward — Martha Ward wears a bow by J Crew Credit: Instagram/ Martha Ward

The look has also been adopted by fashion insiders including stylist Martha Ward and blogger Camille Charriere. The premise is simple - tie up hair, add bow. Versatile - loose half up, double buns, classic pony, all lend themselves to the addition of a bow.

And there’s no need to invest in expensive accessories - a length of ribbon in the colour and texture of your choice, and you’re good to go. For recent runway cues, look to Erdem, where nape-of-the neck ponytails were tied with simple black velvet ribbon, or Rodarte, where multiple bows were entwined with flowers and plaits to create an altogether more ornate effect.

Millie Bobby Brown at the SAG awards, 2018 — Millie Bobby Brown's hair bows at the SAG awards, 2018

Over head

Another styling throwback comes via the headband. This season, abandon school-girl associations and opt for sophistication - think embellishment or statement details. The Gucci runway is a good reference point (under Alessandro Michele, the label is a surefire barometer of what to wear, and how to wear it) where a velvet design, decorated with diamante studded bows stole the hair-show.

The runway styling favoured a more-is-more approach, pairing the style with layers of necklaces over textured fabric. As does Leandra Medine (a reliable early adopter) - her embellished Miu Miu band is the finishing touch for a tweed and sequin combination. The beauty of the decorated piece is that it transfers as well to more minimal looks, adding a flash of decoration to pared back styles.

Let slide

The SS18 Versace show made headlines around the world when Cindy, Linda, Naomi et al walked the runway in sleek gold sheaths. But look beyond the Supers and there was a new-season style tip to glean from the show.

pernile - Credit: Instagram — Pernille Teisbaek works the hair slide trend Credit: Instagram

Hair slides. Minimal and understated, the simple gold clips, fastened behind the ear, held back glossy, crisply centre-parted hair. Gigi Hadid encapsulated the look's impact- go earring free for extra impact. See stylist and creative director Pernille Taisbaek for a simple translation from runway to wardrobe. Simple slides and lightly smoothed locks instantly update a white t-shirt and denim.