How to Wear a Barrette - Abbott Atelier

How to Wear a Barrette

Explore our adorable scrunchies, chic hair clips, and stylish barrettes today!


Barrettes are making a comeback, and we're here for it! These versatile hair accessories can elevate any look from casual to chic in seconds. Mastering the art of wearing barrettes can transform your hairstyle and add a touch of personality to your outfit.

Whether you're dealing with flyaways or want to create an eye-catching style, barrettes are your new best friend. We've experimented with various techniques and styles to bring you the ultimate guide on rocking these charming hair clips.

Ready to up your hair game? Let's dive into the world of barrettes and discover how to wear them like a pro. From selecting the perfect clip for your hair type to nailing trendy placement, we've got you covered.

Key Takeaways

  • Choose barrettes that complement your hair texture and desired style
  • Experiment with placement to create different looks, from practical to fashionable
  • Match your barrettes to your outfit for a cohesive and stylish appearance

Choosing the Right Barrette for Your Hair Type

Selecting the perfect barrette for your hair can make all the difference in your look. We'll explore how to pick the ideal clip based on your hair's thickness and texture.

Barrettes for Thick Hair

For our thick-haired friends, we recommend opting for sturdy, heavy-duty barrettes. Large metal clips or wide plastic ones work wonders to keep your luscious locks in place. Look for barrettes with strong springs or snap closures to ensure they can handle the weight of your hair.

French barrettes are a great choice, as they're designed to distribute pressure evenly. We love how they add a touch of elegance while keeping everything secure.

Pro tip: Choose barrettes with textured interiors. They'll grip your hair better and prevent slipping throughout the day.

Barrettes for Thin or Fine Hair

If you've got fine or thin hair, we've got you covered! Lightweight barrettes are your best bet. Mini clips or dainty metal barrettes won't weigh your hair down or slip out easily.

Fabric-covered clips are perfect for adding a pop of color without overwhelming your delicate strands. We're obsessed with how cute and versatile they can be!

For extra hold, try barrettes with silicone lining. They'll give you that extra grip without damaging your hair. Trust us, your fine locks will thank you!

Barrette Materials and Hair Compatibility

When it comes to materials, we've got some insider tips for you. Metal barrettes are versatile and work well for most hair types. They're durable and come in countless styles – from minimalist to ornate.

Plastic clips are lightweight and great for casual looks. They're perfect for thin hair or when you want a more laid-back vibe.

For a boho chic look, we're all about wooden barrettes. They're gentle on your hair and add a natural, earthy touch to any outfit.

Remember, if you have color-treated hair, opt for coated metal or plastic clips to avoid any unwanted reactions. Your hair color will stay vibrant, and you'll rock those barrettes with confidence!

Basic Barrette Placement Techniques

Barrettes are versatile hair accessories that can transform any look. We'll explore simple yet effective ways to incorporate them into various hairstyles.

Securing a Ponytail

Let's start with a classic: the ponytail barrette. First, gather your hair into a ponytail at your desired height. Secure it with an elastic band. Now, choose a barrette that complements your outfit.

Slide the barrette just above the elastic, catching both the ponytail and some surrounding hair. This adds extra hold and a stylish touch. For a sleeker look, use a flat barrette. Want something fun? Try a decorative clip with embellishments.

Pro tip: For thicker hair, use two barrettes on either side of the ponytail for added security and symmetry.

Clipping Back Bangs

Growing out bangs? Barrettes are your new best friend. Start by parting your bangs where you want them swept to. Take a small section of hair from the part and twist it slightly.

Place a thin barrette at a slight angle, securing the twisted section. This creates a polished look while keeping those pesky strands out of your eyes. For shorter bangs, try mini barrettes or bobby pins.

We love using colorful clips to add a pop of fun to any outfit. Don't be afraid to mix and match!

Accenting an Updo

Updos and barrettes are a match made in hair heaven. Begin by creating your favorite updo - a bun, chignon, or French twist. Once secured, it's time to add some flair with barrettes.

Place a statement barrette on one side of the updo for asymmetrical charm. Or, use multiple small clips around the style for a constellation effect. We're obsessed with using pearl or crystal-encrusted barrettes for special occasions.

For a boho vibe, try placing barrettes in a crisscross pattern at the nape of your neck. This works especially well with loose, romantic updos.

Trendy Ways to Style with Barrettes

Barrettes are making a major comeback in the fashion world. We've got some fun and fresh ways to rock these classic hair accessories that'll elevate any look.

Stacked Barrettes Look

We're obsessed with the stacked barrette trend! It's super easy to pull off and adds instant flair to your hairstyle.

Start by choosing 2-4 barrettes in complementary colors or styles. Place them close together on one side of your head, slightly above your ear. Experiment with different patterns - try lining them up vertically or creating a chevron shape.

For extra pizzazz, mix metal finishes like gold and silver. Or go for a monochromatic look with barrettes in varying shades of the same color. This style works great with straight or wavy hair, and can dress up a casual outfit or add edge to a fancier look.

Side Sweep Elegance

The side sweep is a chic way to style barrettes for both day and night. It's perfect for keeping hair out of your face while still looking put-together.

Gather a section of hair from one side of your head and sweep it across to the opposite side. Secure with a statement barrette just above your ear. Choose a larger, decorative barrette for this look - think pearls, crystals, or bold geometric shapes.

This style is versatile and flattering for most face shapes. It works well with medium to long hair and can be adapted for different occasions. For a casual daytime look, use a simple tortoiseshell barrette. Switch to a bejeweled clip for evening glam.

Asymmetrical Clipping

We love the edgy vibe of asymmetrical barrette placement. This look is all about creating visual interest and breaking traditional hair rules.

Try clipping one barrette on the left side of your head, then add another slightly lower on the right side. Or place a single barrette off-center near your part line. The key is to embrace the imbalance - it's what makes this style so cool and modern.

This technique works with any hair length or texture. It's especially great for adding some flair to a simple ponytail or bun. Don't be afraid to mix and match barrette sizes and styles for a truly unique look. It's an easy way to express your personal style and keep your hair game fresh.

Matching Barrettes with Your Outfit

Pairing barrettes with your outfits can elevate your look from basic to stylish. We'll explore how to match these versatile hair accessories with different ensembles for various occasions.

Casual Ensembles

For everyday looks, we love mixing and matching barrettes with laid-back outfits. Try clipping a few colorful mini barrettes along one side of your hair to add a playful touch to jeans and a tee.

Pearl-embellished barrettes look super cute with sundresses or flowy skirts. We're obsessed with using a larger statement barrette to sweep back bangs or secure a half-up style with a casual romper.

Don't be afraid to mix metals! Gold barrettes pop against dark hair, while silver ones shine with lighter locks. For boho vibes, wooden or tortoiseshell clips complement earthy tones and flowy fabrics perfectly.

Work Attire

At the office, we opt for sleek and sophisticated barrettes that keep our hair polished all day. A single matte black or tortoiseshell clip works wonders to secure a low bun or twist.

For a more feminine touch, try pastel-colored enamel barrettes with tailored blazers or pencil skirts. We love how they add a soft contrast to structured workwear.

Got a big presentation? Use a row of small, metallic barrettes to sweep your hair to one side for an elegant yet professional look. Just remember to keep it subtle - less is more when it comes to office-appropriate hair accessories.

Special Occasions

Dressy events call for glamorous barrettes that make a statement. We're all about sparkly, crystal-encrusted clips for weddings or formal dinners. They catch the light beautifully and add instant elegance to updos.

For cocktail parties, try oversized velvet bow barrettes in rich jewel tones. They look stunning with little black dresses or silky jumpsuits.

Don't forget about flower-shaped barrettes for garden parties or summer soirées. We adore pairing delicate floral clips with flowy maxi dresses for a romantic, ethereal vibe.

Caring for Your Barrettes

Proper care and maintenance can keep our barrettes looking fabulous for years to come. Let's explore some simple yet effective ways to clean and store these handy hair accessories.

Cleaning Your Barrettes

We all know how our barrettes can accumulate hair products, oils, and dirt over time. To keep them sparkling, we like to give them a gentle wash every few weeks. For metal barrettes, we use warm water with a drop of mild soap. A soft-bristled toothbrush works wonders for scrubbing away grime.

For plastic or wooden barrettes, we opt for a damp cloth instead. It's important to dry them thoroughly to prevent rust or warping. For stubborn residue, a bit of rubbing alcohol on a cotton swab does the trick.

Remember, never soak embellished barrettes! We carefully clean around any jewels or decorations to avoid loosening the adhesive.

Storing Your Barrettes Properly

Tossing our barrettes into a drawer is tempting, but it's a surefire way to end up with tangled, scratched accessories. Instead, we've found some cute and practical storage solutions.

Small organizer boxes with compartments are perfect for keeping different styles separate. For longer barrettes, we love using shallow trays lined with velvet or felt. This prevents scratches and keeps them easily visible.

Hanging organizers with clear pockets are another favorite. They save space and make it super easy to see all our options at a glance.

Pro tip: Store barrettes clasped shut to maintain their spring. This helps them last longer and keeps a firm grip on our hair when we wear them.

Frequently Asked Questions

We've gathered some common questions about styling barrettes to help you rock this versatile accessory. From short hair to long locks, we've got you covered with tips and tricks for every hair type and style.

What are some chic hairstyles for incorporating barrettes into short hair?

For short hair, try a deep side part with a statement barrette near the temple. We love a sleek pixie cut with a row of small barrettes along one side. A textured bob can be elevated with a single barrette sweeping back one side for an effortlessly cool look.

Can you share tips for securing French barrettes in fine hair?

To keep French barrettes in place on fine hair, we recommend teasing the section slightly before clipping. A light spritz of texturizing spray can also create grip. Try crisscrossing two barrettes for extra hold and a unique style.

What are the best ways to style barrettes with bangs without overwhelming the look?

With bangs, less is more. We suggest using a single, delicate barrette to pin back one side of your fringe. For a playful touch, try two tiny barrettes placed vertically near the end of your bangs. Avoid placing large barrettes directly in the center of your bangs to keep the look balanced.

What are some adorable barrette hairstyles for little girls?

Little girls look adorable with barrettes! We love a half-up style secured with butterfly barrettes. Pigtails can be jazzed up with colorful snap clips at the base. For special occasions, try a crown of small floral barrettes around the head.

How can one style barrettes in long hair for a casual yet trendy look?

For long hair, we're fans of the effortless half-up twist secured with a statement barrette. Try placing a row of pearl barrettes along one side of a deep part. A low, messy bun can be instantly elevated with a metallic barrette placed just above it.

Any advice on how to ensure barrettes stay put all day?

To keep barrettes in place, we swear by prepping hair with a light hold hairspray. For extra security, cross two barrettes in an X shape. Choosing barrettes with a strong spring mechanism can also help them grip better throughout the day.

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