Should you need a reminder of the inexorable nature of time, we at Vogue Singapore are here to reinforce the sentiment as August marches on. With that being said, the continued descent into the last four months of the year makes an excellent time for reflection; a look back at the significant events, happenings, and phenomena that occurred in 2023, if you will. Off the top of our heads: there was the cultural reset that sprang forth from the release of blockbusters Barbie and Oppenheimer, mermaidcore, the return of travel, and more—with numerous milestones chronicled within the beauty realm thanks to the unabated advancement of technology and innovation. Despite this, it’s safe to say the biggest trend of the year is much more personality-driven. Welcome to the year of the statement hair accessory.
And by this, we are referring to the slew of stunning barrettes, clips, and bows donned by our favourite tastemakers. Spotted on the likes of Hollywood bigwigs and K-pop icons respectively, there is no denying the whimsy and glamour aforementioned ornamentations bring. But don’t just take our word for it—see for yourself. Below, an edit of every striking hair accessory to add to your rotation. The perfect complement to an audacious make-up look? No doubt about it.
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Just a clip away: Momo from Twice
It’s time to bid adieu to your trusty claw clip. In its place, the playful barrette that comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and shades. South-Korean triple threat Momo, for instance, leans into Y2K-inspired logomania with this eye-catching piece from Miu Miu.
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Just a clip away: Lukita Maxwell
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Just a clip away: Kazuha from Le Sserafim
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Just a clip away: Karol G
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Bows abound: Sabrina Carpenter
It’s a ribbon revolution. There is no doubt that this dainty detail is a hot favourite on the runway, with a saturation of bows spotted at the fall/winter 2023 presentations. A natural transition towards the celebrity set followed, with bold patterns and textures coming into play. Sabrina Carpenter opts for a gingham rendition that deftly highlights the charms of the South.
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Bows abound: Joy from Red Velvet
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Bows abound: Jennie from Blackpink
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Bows abound: Elle Fanning
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Bandana bonanza: Bella Hadid
Cowboy core has been making its rounds as of late—see: the iconic Mojo Dojo Casa House from Barbie—so it comes as no surprise that there has been an upsurge in appearances of accessories from within the genre. The sheer variety in style alone allows for this to make a strong visual impact without compromising on one’s personal aesthetic. Take a cue from Bella Hadid’s book and match your bandana with your entire ensemble.
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Bandana bonanza: Charli XCX
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Bandana bonanza: Nayeon from Twice
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Exquisite headbands: Joey King
A strategically-placed headband can do wonders for your mane, from obscuring fly-aways to helping ensure focus stays on a skilfully embellished visage. In Joey King’s case, it helps add volume while also serving as an apt finishing touch to a cohesive look. A low-maintenance accessory that delivers on a ton of impact, indeed.
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Exquisite headbands: HoYeon Jung
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Exquisite headbands: Irene from Red Velvet
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Exquisite headbands: Emma Chamberlain
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Vivacious scrunchies: Leeseo from IVE
The thicker, chunkier cousin to the conventional hair tie gains a vibrant twist this season. We’re talking fur, crochet, and even velvet to make a head turning statement like no other. For those looking to dip their toes into this trend, attempt the look first with deep, jewel-like hues as Leeseo did at IVE’s first fan concert in Singapore.
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Vivacious scrunchies: Jeongyeon from Twice
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