Autumn Hair Accessories 2026

Hair accessories have quietly taken over this season. Silk scrunchies, slim headbands and pearl pins are turning up everywhere from the catwalk to the Tube. The difference in 2026 is that nobody is wearing them to look sweet. This autumn's accessories are grown up, slightly retro and designed to make a five-minute style look considered. Here's what's worth buying, and how to wear each piece so it looks chic rather than costume.

The Scrunchie Grows Up

The scrunchie never really went away, but this season it has had a serious upgrade. The ones to look for are oversized, in silk or satin, and often ruffled or printed. Worn on a low ponytail or a loose bun with jeans, a knit and loafers, a good scrunchie makes a basic outfit look properly put together.

There's a practical reason to love them too. Silk and satin create far less friction than a standard elastic, so they're kinder to colour-treated or fine hair and leave fewer kinks. Pick colours that echo the season: deep plum, chocolate, burgundy or a warm print. They look particularly good against richer brunettes like Truffle Brunette, this autumn's big colour trend.

Our tip: put the scrunchie in last, over a regular snag-free band that does the actual holding. That way it sits full and fluffy rather than being stretched flat.

Tie It With a Silk Scarf

The silk scarf is the easiest way to make a ponytail look expensive. Fold a square scarf into a narrow strip, tie it over your hair band and let the ends trail down. In autumn prints like brown paisley, cobalt or a classic equestrian pattern, it adds instant polish to a camel coat or a blazer.

You can also wear a bandana-style scarf knotted at the nape, or wrap a long skinny scarf through a low bun. If your hair is very silky and things tend to slide out, give the roots a little dry shampoo or texture spray first so the scarf has something to grip. Scarves also double as a lifesaver on a second-day hair morning, which is no bad thing as the weather turns.

While we're on the subject of things worn on the head, headbands are back in a big way too. Look for slim tortoiseshell bands, jewel-tone satin in amethyst or emerald, and the slightly cheeky 90s zig-zag comb headband that pushes everything back off the face.

One Statement Clip, Done Properly

If multiple pins feel like too much, go the other way: one big, beautiful clip. Jewelled, beaded or sculptural metal clips are the evening accessory of the season, worn at the back of a low chignon or holding a half-up style in place. Beaded and chain hairpieces are part of the same trend and are a fun way to dress up something simple for a night out.

The trick is restraint. Let the clip be the only statement, keep the rest of the hair smooth or softly textured, and choose a clip strong enough to actually hold the style. As we head towards party season, it's worth pairing a statement clip with a little sparkle elsewhere; hair tinsel is a subtle way to do it.

And if you're not sure how to put any of these looks together, ask your stylist for a few pointers at the end of your appointment, whether that's placing a pin, tying a scarf or pinning up a quick twist.

Fancy an autumn refresh to go with your new accessories? Book in for a cut, colour or blow-dry at either of our London salons. Book at Oxford Street | Book at Covent Garden