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10 bridal hair accessories (that aren't a veil)

Big day-worthy headbands, combs, flower crowns, and more.

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Not into the idea of wearing a veil on your wedding day? Stay true to your style, but don’t overlook the importance of a hair accessory, which would not only be beautiful but could also tie your entire bridal look together. Just think: your hair may cover your earrings, and who’s going to see your shoes, which will be tucked under your dress for most of the day, anyway? A hair accessory is a must though. Consider it jewelry for your hair!

Name your style – glamorous, modern, bohemian – and there’s a bridal hair accessory for you below, whether you opt for a headband, hairpins, or clips. Some are sweet and floral, while some are goddess-worthy gold leaf pieces. Some are sculptural, while others are soft. They’d all be the perfect finishing touch for your wedding day look. These are our top ten bridal hair accessories to turn heads on your big day.

1. An oversized embroidered pearl bow

On left, peal-adorned large bow. On right, person wearing peal-adorned cream bow in hair.
Credit: Jennifer Behr

This bow is the perfect balance of simple, yet extravagant.

Confession: we gasped the first time we laid eyes on this embroidered pearl bow. You too? This exquisite oversized bow is embroidered with pearls of varying sizes, making for a stunning hair accessory that still has a natural, ribbon-like movement. The price tag is a commitment, but so worth it since the Bailey Bow Barrette is meticulously sewn by hand in New York and is a pass-down-the-generations keepsake.

Get the Bailey Pearl Bow Barrette from Jennifer Behr for $325

2. A versatile vine comb

Person wearing Swarovski crystal leave hair accessory in bun.
Credit: Brides & Hairpins

These Swarovski crystal leaves are the perfect way to incorporate the essence of nature.

Swarovski crystals on your wedding day? Yes, please. This eye-catching branch of crystals, available in both gold and silver, enhances a low bun or twisted ‘do, perfectly highlighting your wedding day hair. With such a standout hair accessory, ditch the thought of a necklace, keep your earrings minimal, and let the crystals do the talking.

Get the Suri Comb from Nordstrom for $135

3. A flower crown that’s not just for bohemian brides

On left, cream floral flower crown. On right, person wearing fabric flower crown in hair.
Credit: Les Couronnes de Victoire

Channel your inner pixie with this small flower crown.

This flower crown would be just as charming at a backyard wedding as it would be at a Tuscan destination wedding or a big city celebration. Each delicate flower is carefully pressed (in Paris, of all places!) using a natural process, which allows the blooms to maintain their fresh appearance for life. That way you can wear it again at your 50th-anniversary party.

Get the Calypso Preserved Flower Crown from BHLDN for $268

4. A halo-like headband worthy of a goddess

On left, diamond halo headband. On right, person wearing diamond halo headband in hair.
Credit: Brides & Hairpins

This dainty halo headband is the perfect subtle accessory.

This leaf-life headband is created with hand-wired marquise crystals, which give off glamorous goddess vibes. The satin ribbon secures the look, which would add serious style to your big day hair, especially if you’re wearing your locks down. (Though it’d be equally as gorgeous tucked into a pulled-back hairstyle too.)

Get the Gigi Halo Band from Nordstrom for $175

5. An understated accessory for short hair

Small metal headband with dangling pearl. On left, person wearing silver headband in hair.
Credit: Lelet NY

Who needs a pair of drop earrings with this perfect headband?

Short-haired brides, this one is for you! This thin, elegant headband is slightly minimalist and totally elegant. Much of it is quite simple – a single strand of sparkle – before revealing tassels of Swarovski crystals and pearls behind each ear. This allows you to show off coordinating pearl earrings and bold lipstick.

Get the Lelet NY Emily Headband from BHLDN for $278

6. The prettiest pearl hair pins

On left, bride wearing cream veil with pearl pins in hair. On right, gold and pearl hair pins.
Credit: Imprint and Impress

Think of these pearl hair pins as the finishing touch on your bridal masterpiece.

Here’s betting your hairstylist will have a blast inventing various ways to incorporate these pearl hairpins into your wedding day look. The options are nearly endless since you can choose between gold and silver pins, as well as sets of 18, 36, or 54 pearls, which all include a variety of sizes. Whether you use just a few or a whole ocean’s worth – they’re imitation pearls, don’t worry – have fun experimenting with different looks.

Get the Set of Bridal Pearl Hair Pins from Etsy for $18

7. A seriously sweet bridal bow

Person wearing white fabric bow in bun.
Credit: Ayajewellery

For the southern brides who love bows.

Accessorize a low ponytail or twisted updo with this sweet-as-can-be silk bow. Whether your style veers more bohemian, or you’re strictly modern, this ultra-versatile handmade hair comb is sure to highlight your hairstyle. Simply attach this to your hair using two small pins, then voila! Consider your bridal look complete.

Get the Bridal Bow from Etsy for $120 (currently on sale for $60)

8. Twinkle, twinkle with star-silhouette hair pins

On left, person wearing gold star-shaped diamonds in hair. On right, gold and diamond star-shaped hair pins.
Credit: Brides & Hairpins

With these pins, you'll be a star on your big day.

To add a subtle sparkle to your wedding day look, opt to include this set of five star-shaped hairpins in your hairstyle. They’re subtle but sparkly, and elegant but whimsical. Best of all, they can be worn over and over for special occasions of all kinds.

Get the Danai Set of 5 Crystal Hair Pins from Nordstrom for $95

9. A statement-making hair clip

Gold, silver and pearl hair pins that read, "Bride."
Credit: Anibucco

Make a bold statement with these.

Really embrace bride life with this glitzy hair clip, perfect for all kinds of wedding occasions, such as your bachelorette party, bridal shower, engagement party, and yes, even your wedding day. Choose between “Bride” or “Mrs,” or don’t – get both to stack! Each clip is embellished by hand either in rhinestones or pearls and dipped in either silver or rose gold.

Get the Rhinestone Pearl Mrs. Hair Barrette from Etsy for $8.99

10. A modern take on a birdcage veil

On left, cream colored peal mesh veil. On right, person wearing white and pearl mesh veil.
Credit: Jennifer Behr

A traditional classic with a twist.

Okay, okay, so we snuck one veil into the mix. Can you blame us? This silk-wrapped headband features a French birdcage veil that is hand-stitched with Swarovski pearls. (Traditional birdcage veils are attached to a comb, so this headband version feels fresh and modern.) Each Violette Headband is made by hand in New York.

Get the Violette Headband with Pearls from Jennifer Behr for $262

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