This Underrated Hair Accessory Will Polish Your Look in 2 Seconds Flat

When it comes to one of my go-to lazy hairstyling hacks, I usually just reach for a headband. Days-old hair? No problem. If it has a thick band, it hides any grease. (I know—I'm gross.) And since I'm not so great at curling or adding waves to my hair, it takes me a long time when I attempt it. So if I'm super short on time or really don't feel like going through the whole styling process, I just add some dry shampoo or a volumizing spray to add some body and plop a headband on, and I'm all set. It's so easy.

But lately, I've been thinking about changing up my go-to lazy look and venturing into other hair accessories. I don't want to be a one-trick pony, after all. That's when I realized barrettes could have the same styling power as a headband. And I don't know about you, but the last time I wore a barrette might have been in grade school. So it has some nostalgic value.

The cool thing about barrettes is they can give off put-together, polished, semi-preppy vibes. So they'll really upgrade your look, even if you've put zero product and haven't used hot tools on your hair. Plus, they literally take seconds to put on. Clip, slide, or fasten and then you're done.

If you're ready to test-drive barrettes the next time you style your hair, take a look at some below that I have on my wish list.

The pretty floral detail on this barrette reminds me of china patterns. Shop this one if you're looking for a traditional, classic look.

With this six-pack of barrettes, you can have a different hair accessory for almost every day of the week.

The pearl fringe on this dainty gold barrette feels both playful and grown-up. Also, am I the only one who thinks it gives off French-girl vibes?

The sculptural shape of Madewell's gilded, chunky barrette is inspired by the '80s. 

Dress up a ponytail or bun with these sparkly crystal barrettes. Or you can use just one as a dainty accessory to a half-up, half-down style.

The rod-and-ball clip style has a swirly acetate design that can pretty much go with any outfit.

Understated and elegant, this hoop-and-pin barrette keeps your hair in place with ease.

This design of this clip is super nostalgic—how many of you have had clips like that growing up? But the tortoiseshell makes it seem more sophisticated and mature.

For easy, breezy summertime vibes, try this rattan barrette. It will complete your half-up, half-down hairstyle.

Reach for this barrette for the next dressy or formal event you have to go to. It's perfect for when you want to do something elevated with your hair but don't want to spend a ton of time styling or paying for a blowout.

To quote Tiktok, "Now this is a work of art." Honestly, after putting this barrette on, you really don't need to do any more accessorizing—it speaks for itself.

If you're serious about accessorizing with barrettes, you're going to want to check this assortment out. The variety is awesome, from pearl details to resin clips. Plus, you 28 pieces for $10. It's a deal.

With cubic zirconia embellishments, this barrette will add some sparkle to your hair. The design also gives off art deco vibes.

Scünci's set of clips is long and narrow and features a knot accent. You can wear them solo or pair them together for a fun look.

This might be the easiest way to wear a bow in your hair. You don't have to worry about retying the velvet piece, and it still looks romantic and elegant.

If you're looking to splurge, look no further than Gucci's logo barrette with crystals and studs. It will turn heads.

The milky pearl-like finish is so pretty, and it will pair well with any outfit.

Oribe's sheer hair spray is great for taming any flyaways and providing a light hold that doesn't leave the hair feeling crunchy.

This leave-in treatment provides up to 72 hours of frizz control while strengthening and protecting the hair from everyday damage.

Rahua's hair balm gives a sleek look while also nourishing the strands. It contains Rahua oil to strengthen the hair and maintain scalp health, sacha inchi to lock in moisture and condition the scalp, morete oil to protect from UVA rays, cocoa-seed butter to nourish and soften, and gardenia enfleurage oil for an inviting scent.

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