We tried barrettes for grown-ups -- 'hair's what happened

Consider it barrette styling 101.

We tried barrettes for grown-ups -- 'hair's what happened
ABC Photo Illustration
December 20, 2021, 4:01 AM

For the past few years, beautiful, bold, statement-making barrettes have continued to trend.

We've seen these accessories make an appearance during past fashion weeks, and now everyone from fashion insiders to high profile celebrities are incorporating them into their ensembles.

"Good Morning America" tried barrettes on four different hair types.
ABC

Full disclosure: We aren't talking about the plastic barrettes you might have worn as a child.

Today, there are lots of sophisticated chic options for those who want an easy way to add an extra flair to their look.

In hopes of figuring out ways to create simple 'do's that work well with barrettes, "Good Morning America" visited Nexxus New York Salon and consulted with stylist Nicole Casamassima to learn how to get four incredible looks on four totally different hair textures.

These looks are easy to do, amazing to look at, and can be worn everywhere from the boardroom to a backyard BBQ.

Curls

Sha's natural curls that were pre-styled using a flexirod setting technique. Bedazzled barrettes accent her texture perfectly.

"Good Morning America" tried barrettes on four different hair types.
ABC

Styling tip: Once hair is set, use a teasing brush, pull the hair tight and secure with bobby pins before applying the clips to ensure they stay in place.

Pro tip: When using the teasing brush to smooth edges, add a layer of hairspray directly to the brush and brush any stray hairs down.

Try: Kitsch Drippin Rhinestone Bobby Pin, $29, mykitsch.com

"Blinged out barrettes are now my go-to for a quick and easy way to take my curls from drab to fab! Loved it!" - Sha Spencer

Long & Thick

"Good Morning America" tried barrettes on four different hair types.
ABC

Brittany usually wears her blonde strands big, blown out, and ready for a dainty touch like this velvet bow.

Styling tip: Curling hair beforehand adds texture which assists with getting a sturdy grip, and holding the clip in place. Enhance natural texture with a lightweight finishing spray such as Nexxus Between Washes Air Lift Dry Texture Finishing Spray (available at Target).

Pro tip: Spray the roots and underneath hair using a lifting spray and apply a small amount of dry shampoo foam at the roots to create the perfect texture. Twist back a few pieces and anchor hair in with some pins before applying the clip.

Try: Jennifer Behr Velvet Bow Barrette, $128, jenniferbehr.com

"I loved the bow, I didn’t want to take it out. I felt like Blair Waldorf from ‘Gossip Girl.'" - Brittany Berkowitz

Bob-cut

"Good Morning America" tried barrettes on four different hair types.
ABC

Jacqueline cut her hair into a bob a few months ago, and as it's growing back, she's been curious about new ways to style.

Styling tip: Make sure you blow-dry your hairline and smooth any flyaways down before inserting clips.

Pro tip: Spritz hairspray on the inside of the clips, and allow it to dry before inserting into the hair. This prevents slippage and keeps everything secure.

Try: Baublebar Danalyn Hair Pin Set, $48, baublebar.com

"I've been really into the barrette trend, and this style gave me another styling idea that looks youthful, but not too kiddy." - Jacqueline Lauren Yates

Growing out bangs

"Good Morning America" tried barrettes on four different hair types.
ABC

Zoe normally rocks pin straight hair and is growing out her bangs.

Styling tip: Gently pull bangs back, and twist ends. Secure with large snap clips.

Pro tip: If bangs are too short to get into one of these clips, a little teasing at the root will help. Then, smooth the outer layer to cover any teasing and finish with hairspray for hold. Before adding clips, make sure bangs are secured with smaller bobby pins.

Try: Scunci Snap Clips, prices vary, Amazon

"The barrettes made me feel like a kid again but in a good way.” - Zoe Moore

Editor's Note: This story was orginally published on May 16, 2019.