Vivienne Mackinder, founder of Vivienne Mackinder Education and an award-winning hairstylist, uncovered the blueprint for making hair accessories work for your client and your business.
“Hair accessories can elevate a hairstyle from beautiful to unforgettable — but they can also be a stylist’s worst nightmare if not handled carefully. I’ve had many looks go terribly wrong when a gorgeous piece of jewelry slipped out of place or tangled in the hair, ruining hours of work,” explains Mackinder.
The biggest challenges with accessories are installation and security. The weight of the accessory and its intricate details can easily catch or pull, creating discomfort for the client or compromising a style.
Viv’s Hot Tips:
Rehearse the Placement: Before securing any hair accessory, rehearse exactly where it will go. The accessory is part of the design; if a piece is placed and then removed, it can easily disturb the hairstyle’s structure—so plan ahead.
Design Harmony: A hair accessory can make or break a hairstyle. Consider both the style and the placement:
- Is it classic, bohemian, or edgy?
- Does it complement the face shape, outfit, and overall design?
Face Shape Balance: Headbands and side accessories can transform facial balance:
- A headband lifts the hair off the face for a clean, open look.
- A side clip or pin can draw attention away from the ear and soften asymmetry.
- Perform a face shape balance check. The goal is to create visual oval balance.
Anchoring and Security: Once the placement is decided, make sure the accessory is secure: Tease a small cushion of hair as a base to secure larger pieces, such as tiaras or jeweled headbands and hair combs. Anchor the piece with metal grips or Japanese hairpins. For extra security, sew the accessory using elastic thread or embroidery silk matching the hair color.
Rehearse Before Final Placement: Always practice first before committing. If the client changes their mind after the accessory is anchored or sewn in, the hairstyle may be ruined.
Environment and Longevity: Will the client be dancing? Will they be outdoors or in the wind? These factors determine how much reinforcement you’ll need for the accessory’s longevity and security.
Creative Bonus: A well-placed accessory can hide a multitude of problems! So have fun and let creativity flow. Always use a mirror and check the design from every angle to secure the big picture.
Courtesy of Vivienne Mackinder
The Photographer’s Eye: While in rehearsal mode, take photos. The camera’s perspective helps to see what the eye may miss. Study photos carefully — remember, for special events, the hairstyle will be highly photographed. Check the balance from the front, side, and back.
“This may be the most photographed hairstyle of that client’s life — if you get it right, people will ask: “Who did your hair? It’s amazing!” And that, my friend, is the best advertising you’ll ever have,” says Mackinder.
Courtesy of Vivienne Mackinder
NOTE: Be mindful when using hairspray — it can dull the sparkle of diamonds, pearls, and other shiny embellishments.
“Remember, a hair accessory should enhance the hairstyle, not distract from it. Just like the perfect pair of shoes completes an outfit, the right accessory should complement the fashion sensibility — whether it’s bohemian, glamorous, or edgy,” adds Mackinder, “And sometimes a style is so beautiful on its own, an accessory would be too much.
