11 Hair Accessories Women Over 50 Love — And How To Style Them Right

Finding the right hair accessory at my age feels a bit like stumbling upon the last slice of cake at a party—it’s rare and totally worth it.

No matter if I’m dressing up for a dinner or running errands in yoga pants, these little additions always make me feel like I’ve got my life (or at least my hair) together.

So here’s my go-to list—with a few tips and tricks I’ve picked up along the way.

1. Elegant Silk Scarf

You know those pieces that make you feel instantly put-together, even if you’re wearing a plain tee and yesterday’s eyeliner?

That’s what a silk scarf does for me. I tie it around my ponytail when I want a “French girl at the market” moment, or fold it into a headband when I’m channeling retro vibes.

Honestly, I’ve even looped it onto my handbag when my hair looked beyond help. It’s a multitasker—just like me on a Monday.

2. Chic Headband

Headbands have had a glow-up, and I’m not mad about it. Minimalist or full-on jeweled crown, I have a growing collection and no shame. When I want to tame flyaways without looking like I tried too hard, a simple satin one does the trick.

But if I’m feeling dramatic (read: brunch with the ex’s new girlfriend in sight), I reach for the sparkly kind. Either way, it adds polish without the need for a curling iron.

3. Timeless Pearl Clips

Pearl clips are my hair’s version of pearl earrings—timeless, understated and always classy. I pop one in when I want to pretend I have afternoon tea plans (even if it’s just tea bags and emails).

Bonus: They work on everything from messy buns to sleek low knots, and they look just as good at brunch as they do at a wedding.

4. Vintage Hair Comb

There’s something about a vintage hair comb that makes me feel like I should be sipping champagne and listening to vinyl records. I use mine to tuck back waves or secure an updo when I want something a little fancy but not too fussy.

It’s nostalgia wrapped in glamour—and I’m here for it.

5. Stylish Hair Pins

Hair pins used to be the thing I stepped on barefoot. Now? They’re everywhere in my bathroom, and for good reason. A couple of strategically placed pins can turn a basic twist into something Pinterest-worthy.

I have them in gold, tortoiseshell, even ones with tiny pearls—because life’s too short for boring hair.

6. Elegant Barrettes

There’s just something satisfying about clicking a barrette into place. Maybe it’s the sound, maybe it’s the way my hair behaves afterward. Either way, I’m hooked.

I lean toward metallic or sleek designs on weekdays and reach for something floral when I’m feeling playful. Functional and cute? Yes, please.

7. Floral Hair Clips

Whenever my outfit feels a little blah, I add a flower clip and suddenly I’m at a walking garden party. These little bursts of color are perfect for braids, buns, or just pinning back the “why is this piece of hair doing that?” strands.

They’re also my secret weapon for disguising frizz on humid days.

8. Sophisticated Hair Sticks

If you’ve never twisted your hair into a bun and stuck in a hair stick with a flourish, you’re missing out. They make me feel wildly capable, like I could do tai chi and write poetry in the same afternoon.

Bonus: They’re great for long hair, and they won’t leave a dent like elastic bands.

9. Bohemian Hair Wraps

There’s something liberating about a bohemian wrap. On days when my hair says “nah,” I wrap one of these beauties around a braid or ponytail, throw on some big earrings, and pretend I’m in a music video.

They’re colorful, fun, and perfect for those “I want to look like I tried, but didn’t” days.

10. Modern Scrunchies

If you told me 10 years ago I’d be wearing scrunchies again, I’d have laughed while sipping a latte with my straightened hair. But here I am, loving every minute of it.

They’re gentle, they’re cute, and when I’m not using one, it hangs on my wrist like a little fabric bracelet. Velvet for winter, cotton for summer—done.

11. Classic Hair Claws

Hair claws are the best kind of throwback. I keep one in my purse, one in the car, and about five in my bathroom. Messy bun? Done in five seconds.

Fancy twist? Easy. No matter my mood (or the state of my roots), the claw clip has my back. Plus, they look way cooler now than they did in the ’90s.