Trends in Hair Accessories Through the Decades

Hair accessories have always been more than just functional—they’re a reflection of culture, fashion, and self-expression. From the glamorous headpieces of the 1920s to the bold scrunchies of the ‘90s, each decade has brought its own signature hair trends.

Let’s take a journey through time and explore the most iconic hair accessories from the past century, many of which are making a stylish comeback today!


1920s: The Age of Glamour and Headpieces

The Roaring Twenties were all about luxury and elegance. Women embraced short bob hairstyles and accessorized them with:

  • Bejeweled headbands – Worn across the forehead to complement flapper dresses.
  • Feathered hairpieces – A signature look for jazz clubs and Gatsby-era parties.
  • Decorative combs and barrettes – Often adorned with pearls or rhinestones.

Modern Revival: Headbands with embellishments and vintage-inspired hair clips are making a comeback, adding an elegant touch to contemporary styles.


1930s & 1940s: Classic Waves and Victory Rolls

During the 1930s, hairstyles became more structured, featuring soft waves and sleek updos. Women accessorized with:

  • Silk scarves – Tied around the head for a chic, polished look.
  • Minimalist hairpins – Used to secure intricate styles.

In the 1940s, war-time fashion gave rise to practical yet stylish hair trends:

  • Victory rolls – Pinned-up curls secured with bobby pins and setting clips.
  • Bandanas and turbans – A staple for working women to keep hair in place.

Modern Revival: Silk scarves and hair wraps have resurfaced, bringing effortless elegance to casual and formal styles alike.


1950s: Polished Curls and Pearl Clips

The 1950s was all about glamour and femininity. Women styled their hair in soft curls, voluminous updos, and chic ponytails, accessorizing with:

  • Pearl hair clips – A delicate and timeless way to elevate any look.
  • Thin headbands – Often worn with bouffants for a polished finish.
  • Hair bows – Adding a playful, retro vibe.

Modern Revival: Pearl-adorned hair clips and sleek headbands have made a major comeback, blending vintage charm with modern fashion.


1960s: Bold and Mod-Inspired Hair Accessories

The Swinging Sixties brought big hair and statement accessories. Iconic looks included:

  • Oversized bows – Worn on high ponytails for a youthful, playful look.
  • Wide headbands – A go-to accessory for mod-inspired beehive hairstyles.
  • Flower crowns – The start of the bohemian hair trend.

Modern Revival: Hair bows and chunky headbands are trending once again, perfect for making a statement.


1970s: Free-Spirited Boho Vibes

The hippie movement of the ‘70s introduced a more relaxed approach to hair accessories:

  • Braided headbands – Often made of leather or flowers.
  • Hair feathers – A nod to nature and self-expression.
  • Beaded hair clips – Adding a touch of bohemian flair.

Modern Revival: Boho-chic accessories like silk headscarves, beaded clips, and minimalist gold hair rings are back in fashion.


1980s: The Bigger, The Better

The ‘80s was an era of bold, over-the-top fashion, and hair accessories were no exception:

  • Scrunchies – The ultimate ‘80s hair accessory, available in bright colors and patterns.
  • Banana clips – Used for securing voluminous ponytails.
  • Neon headbands – A workout essential turned fashion statement.

Modern Revival: The scrunchie comeback is in full force, with silk scrunchies leading the way as a gentler, more luxurious alternative.


1990s: The Cool-Girl Minimalism & Playful Hair Accessories

The ‘90s had two distinct hair trends: effortless minimalism and fun, playful accessories. Popular picks included:

  • Mini butterfly clips – Perfect for half-up, half-down styles.
  • Zig-zag headbands – A fun way to pull hair back.
  • Velvet scrunchies – A softer, cozier version of the ‘80s trend.

Modern Revival: Scrunchies, butterfly clips, and chunky claw clips have all returned, proving that ‘90s nostalgia is here to stay.


2000s – Present: The Blend of Past & Present Trends

Hair accessories today draw inspiration from decades past while incorporating modern materials and styles. The biggest trends include:

  • Silk scrunchies – A luxurious take on the classic scrunchie, preventing breakage and frizz.
  • Claw clips – Making a major comeback as a quick and stylish updo option.
  • Pearl and crystal hairpins – Elegant accessories for both everyday wear and formal events.

With sustainability and hair health becoming key concerns, materials like silk and satin are now preferred for gentler styling.


Final Thoughts

Hair accessories have evolved over the decades, but one thing remains the same: they are a fun and stylish way to express yourself. Whether you love vintage-inspired pearl clips, retro headbands, or the modern elegance of a Silkie Silk Scrunchie, there’s a trend for everyone.

Want to embrace timeless hair accessories with a modern twist? Explore Silkie’s collection of silk scrunchies and hair essentials at www.shopsilkie.com for stylish, hair-friendly options that never go out of fashion!

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100% Mulberry Silk Deluxe Scrunchie

100% Mulberry Silk Deluxe Scrunchie

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100% Mulberry Silk Mini Scrunchies - Pastels

100% Mulberry Silk Mini Scrunchies - Pastels

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Acetate Claw Hair Clip

Acetate Claw Hair Clip

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100% Pure Mulberry Silk Large Scrunchies

100% Pure Mulberry Silk Large Scrunchies

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Acetate Comb & Deluxe Scrunchie Set

Acetate Comb & Deluxe Scrunchie Set

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Acetate Detangling Comb

Acetate Detangling Comb

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Acetate Snap Clips

Acetate Snap Clips

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Love Valentine's Acetate Hair Clip

Love Valentine's Acetate Hair Clip

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Silkie Mulberry Silk Skinny Scrunchies

Silkie Mulberry Silk Skinny Scrunchies

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The Signature Set

The Signature Set

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