Okay, let’s be honest—fall fashion is undefeated. Cozy sweaters, pumpkin spice everything, and hair accessories that just scream “I’m ready to crunch some leaves.” If you’ve been wondering how to give your hair that effortless autumn vibe without spending hours in front of the mirror, you’re in the right place.
I’m obsessed with hair accessories (seriously, my drawer looks like a mini Claire’s). And every fall, I pull out my faves that instantly transform my look from “meh” to “hello, autumn queen.” Ready to see which ones will totally upgrade your hair game this season? Let’s do this.
1. Velvet Scrunchies
Velvet = instant fall vibes.
I swear, the second I swap my summer satin scrunchies for rich, plush velvet ones, it’s like my hair says, “Ah yes, cozy season.” They come in deep jewel tones—think burgundy, emerald, and mustard—that pair perfectly with chunky sweaters and scarves.
Why I love them:
- Super gentle on hair (no breakage, yay!)
- Makes a simple ponytail feel extra fancy
- Perfect for lazy mornings when your bun needs a boost
Pro tip: Grab a scrunchie that contrasts your hair color for a subtle pop. Ever tried a mustard scrunchie with dark brown hair? Chef’s kiss.
2. Plaid Headbands
If fall had a pattern, it’d be plaid, right? Plaid headbands instantly give that back-to-school but make it chic energy.
They come padded, knotted, or flat—pick your fighter. I personally live for chunky padded plaid headbands, especially in shades of burnt orange or forest green. They basically say, “Yes, I drink hot cider while reading cozy mysteries.”
Style it with:
- Loose curls for a casual day look
- Sleek low bun for a polished vibe
- Oversized cardigan and boots for peak fall aesthetic
3. Tortoiseshell Hair Clips
If you want something that’s classy yet seasonal, tortoiseshell is your girl. It’s got that warm, caramel-brown vibe that screams autumn without trying too hard.
I keep a couple in my bag for emergency hair fixes. They’re cute enough for brunch and sturdy enough to survive a grocery run with two toddlers (yes, I tested this).
Best ways to use tortoiseshell clips:
- Clip back face-framing pieces for an effortless look
- Secure a half-up style
- Pair two small clips on one side for an understated, trendy touch
4. Knit Headwraps
Ever seen those chunky knit headbands that cover your ears? They’re basically a warm hug for your hair.
Not only do they keep you cozy, but they also hide bad hair days like a pro. I wear mine when I haven’t washed my hair in… let’s just say a while. 😉
Perks:
- Great for windy days
- Works on straight, wavy, or curly hair
- Comes in every fall color imaginable
5. Gold Leaf Hair Pins
Fall = leaves. Gold leaf pins = classy leaves in your hair.
These little accessories make it look like you tried so hard, but really, you just stuck two pins in your messy bun and called it a day. Perfect for date nights, fall weddings, or pretending you’re in a Pinterest photo shoot.
How I style them:
- Cluster a few in a low bun
- Slide one into a braid for a subtle sparkle
- Combine with loose waves for that boho vibe
6. Leather Hair Ties
Swap your basic elastic for a leather wrap tie, and suddenly your ponytail is the star of the show.
They give a rustic, autumnal edge without feeling too extra. I love brown or tan leather wraps with neutral outfits—it’s like your hair is wearing its own fall boots.
Quick styling ideas:
- Tie it around a sleek ponytail
- Wrap it over a bun for a polished look
- Layer with a velvet scrunchie for extra texture
7. Burnt Orange Barrette
Nothing screams fall louder than burnt orange anything. A statement barrette in this shade can turn even a messy morning hair situation into a “cute fall moment.”
I grab mine when I’m running late but still want to look like I made an effort. Clip it on one side, add a swipe of mascara, and boom—autumn chic.
8. Faux Pearl Hair Clips
Pearls aren’t just for spring weddings. Faux pearl clips look insanely good in fall, especially against darker shades like navy or burgundy.
IMO, they’re the fastest way to dress up your hair without heat styling. Plus, they go with literally every fall outfit—yes, even your “pumpkin patch flannel” look. 🙂
9. Suede Bow Clips
Suede + bows = adorable fall energy.
These clips give me serious “Gilmore Girls in Stars Hollow” vibes. I love pinning them on half-up hairstyles or low ponytails. Brown, deep green, or maroon suede bows just feel right for autumn.
Best part? They work for both casual coffee runs and more dressed-up moments.
10. Metal Claw Clips in Warm Tones
Claw clips are back, and if you’re not using one, what are you even doing? For fall, I reach for gold, copper, or bronze claw clips because they catch the light and make my hair feel seasonally on point.
They’re a lifesaver on those chaotic mornings when I need my hair up in 10 seconds flat.
11. Corduroy Scrunchies
Velvet scrunchies’ cozy cousin? Corduroy scrunchies.
They’re textured, soft, and super nostalgic. Plus, corduroy screams fall fashion without being too loud. I love pairing them with denim jackets and ankle boots for that “I definitely planned this outfit” look.
12. Autumn Flower Crowns
Yes, flower crowns are for fall too. Think muted florals in burgundy, mustard, and deep green instead of pastel spring tones.
I bust these out for fall festivals or family photos, and they always get compliments. It’s giving “woodland fairy who loves pumpkin pie.”
Quick Tips for Rocking Fall Hair Accessories
- Stick to warm tones: Burgundy, mustard, rust, olive, and chocolate always look seasonally on point.
- Mix textures: Velvet, suede, leather, and corduroy all feel cozy and fall-ready.
- Less is more: One statement accessory per hairstyle keeps things chic, not overwhelming.
- Match the vibe: Plaid and corduroy for casual days, metallics and pearls for fancy nights.
Final Thoughts
Fall is the best excuse to play with hair accessories and give your everyday looks a seasonal twist. From velvet scrunchies to gold leaf pins, each piece adds a cozy, autumnal vibe to your style without much effort.
So next time you’re sipping that pumpkin spice latte, ask yourself—is my hair also screaming fall? If not, now you know exactly how to fix that. 😉