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Short hair doesn’t limit a bride’s ability to adorn her look on her special day. Explore stunning images of bridal hair accessories.
Stockbyte/ThinkstockHaving short hair doesn’t mean you have to give up on hair accessories. While ponytails or messy buns might not be an option, there are countless ways to style and accessorize shorter locks creatively.
A word of advice before diving in: Simplicity is key. This principle applies to fashion and hairstyling, particularly for short hair. A sleek, minimalist cut pairs best with thoughtfully selected accents. Avoid overwhelming your pixie cut with oversized, flashy barrettes. However, exceptions exist—like a bold, strategically placed flower that can make a striking statement in short hair.
Discover 10 creative ways to style and accessorize short hair without overwhelming it. The secret lies in maintaining simplicity.
10: Barrettes
Styling short hair with barrettes can be tricky—opt for smaller, secure options that avoid a childish vibe. Steer clear of bright plastic or princess-themed designs. For timeless elegance, choose simple designs in neutral tones like tortoiseshell. For special occasions, consider a single statement piece with gems, feathers, or sequins, positioned stylishly above and behind the ear.
Ensure your barrettes have a good grip to keep shorter hair in place. Nothing’s worse than losing your hair accessory mid-day.
For ultra-short hair prone to spiking, wear a hat for 10 minutes post-styling to smooth out any unruly strands.
9: Bobby Pins
Invented in the 1920s to manage the trendy bob hairstyles, bobby pins remain a go-to accessory for short hair. Whether you need to tame stray bangs or add subtle structure, these unassuming pins are reliable and versatile. While plain bobby pins aren’t flashy, they’re perfect for a natural look. For a creative touch, embellish them or layer two in a crisscross pattern.
Brides often stress about growing their hair long for weddings, but short hairstyles can shine too. Pair a cropped cut with a pillbox hat and birdcage veil, a beaded headband, or a delicate flower behind the ear for a stunning bridal look.
8: Skinny Headbands
Skinny headbands are an ideal accessory for short hair.
Comstock/ThinkstockSkinny headbands, whether stretchy loops or U-shaped plastic or metal, have been a major hair trend in recent years. They pair exceptionally well with short hair, but choosing the right one is crucial—avoid anything too wide or overly decorative to prevent a childish appearance. Stick to the KISS principle: Keep it simple and skinny. Layering two skinny headbands can create a stylish yet understated look, offering opportunities to mix colors and patterns.
Headbands, like other accessories, are particularly useful during the hair-growing phase. For short hair, adding volume at the crown while wearing a headband enhances the look. Position the band just beyond your hairline and gently tease or blow-dry the hair behind it for a lifted effect.
7: Head Scarves
A head scarf offers a stylish solution for bad hair days with short hair. When bedhead strikes, a scarf can replace a baseball cap with far more elegance. Depending on your mood or hair situation, you can style it like a bandanna or fold it into a band tied at the nape of your neck. Scarves are especially handy during the awkward growing-out phase and provide more versatility than headbands. Feel free to experiment with bold colors, patterns, and widths without worrying about looking too youthful.
Short hair beautifully highlights bold, dangling earrings that might go unnoticed in longer locks. In fact, the perfect pair of earrings can be the sole accessory you need for an evening out.
6: Flower
Fresh flowers are not only beautiful but also fragrant, making them excellent hair accessories.
Comstock/ThinkstockWhile flowers may not be an everyday choice, they create a striking impact in short hair. Silk flowers in various shapes, colors, and sizes are available on clips, bobby pins, headbands, and barrettes designed for short hair. For a more elegant touch, use a real flower—its natural fragrance and beauty elevate any outfit, from flowing dresses to casual jeans and sandals.
5: Hair Bands
Hair bands aren’t just for long ponytails. Small bands, available in any hair accessory aisle, can add flair to short hairstyles. Use them to create spiky textures or low, choppy pigtails near the ears for a playful yet stylish look.
Opt for clear or neutral-colored bands to avoid a childish appearance, unless that’s your intention. Blending them into your hair creates a more sophisticated style.
4: Feathers
Feather extensions are often seen in long hair, adding a chic and trendy touch. However, they can be even more striking in short hair, creating a bold and dramatic effect.
This style works best for hair ranging from chin to shoulder length, as it requires some blending and grip. Ensure the feather isn’t overly long—extending just an inch past the ends creates a balanced look. With shorter hair, the feather is more noticeable and eye-catching.
Many question the ethics of the feather trend, as the feathers often come from roosters that don’t survive the plucking process. To avoid animal welfare concerns, opt for synthetic alternatives.
3: Extensions
Think updos are off the table with short hair? Think again! For special occasions, hair extensions can help you achieve buns, French twists, braids, or chignons effortlessly.
While affordable options exist, investing in high-quality extensions ensures a natural and elegant appearance. Many salons specialize in extensions, seamlessly blending them with your hair. You might even find yourself tempted to keep them and enjoy a longer hairstyle for a while—change can be refreshing.
2: Crystals
For events like prom, weddings, or a night out, hair gems are a dazzling choice. They create a magical effect, appearing to float without visible fasteners, adding a touch of subtlety to their sparkle.
Hair crystals are often applied using heat-sensitive sheets that adhere with a curling or straightening iron. Once the sheets are removed, tiny crystals remain. The key is moderation—a few crystals can look effortlessly stunning, while too many may appear overdone. Strategically place them to frame your face or create a delicate line near your ear.
1: Hair Paint
For a dramatic yet simple look, consider adding a splash of color without the commitment of dye. Hair paints, applied with a brush or mascara-like wand, offer a temporary solution that won’t stain clothes. Some varieties can last for weeks, making them a versatile choice.
Available in every hue imaginable, hair paint lets you add vibrant streaks to your hair, instantly elevating a neutral outfit. While the effect is more striking on lighter hair, darker tones can still achieve a subtle yet stylish pop of color.
Whether you prefer bold colors and glitter or a more subdued look, there’s no shortage of options. Short hair doesn’t have to be plain—thoughtfully selected accessories can transform an already stylish cut into something truly remarkable.
