The Must-Have Accessory for Fall Is One You Already Own

By Anthropologie Satin Bow Hair Barrette

Bigger hair bows like this one are great contenders for completing a half-up half-down hairstyle.

Urban Outfitters Ribbon Hair Bow Barrette Set

Hair bows that come in sets can be total lifesavers when it comes to a symmetrical hair look.

A New Day Satin Bow Hair Barrette

The satin fabric on this design only amplifies the accessory's femininity. Plus, it'll go easy on your locks.​

Kaiersi Ribbon Bows Hair Clips, Set of 8

With this set of cute hair bows, you'll have an accessory for wearing every day of the week.

Urban Outfitters Satin Hair Bow Barrette Set

If you tend to lean into black-and-white looks, rock some simple cute hair bows like these white ones!

By Anthropologie Velvet Chiffon Bow Clips, Set of 4

You can never have too many cute hair bows! Pick up a pack that'll last you year-round. The best thing about these warm colors is you can match practically any outfit with them!

Tsetuip Large White Lace Hair Bow Clip

The lace material on this hair bow clip gives it even more of a feminine air.

BP. Chiffon Bow Barrette

We are totally in love with the sheer, sparkly fabric that this hair bow is made of.

Urban Outfitters Dolly Satin Lace Hair Bow Barrette

Try wearing the bow trend in different, more out-there colors for something more unique!

Free People Quincy Mini Bows, Set of 4

These tiny, tiny hair bows allow for a wide range of hairstyles. This braid is what bow dreams are made of!

Curried Myrrh Gracie Cable Knit Bow

This cozy hair bow is comfortable enough for all-day wear, thanks to its soft material and easy clip. It'll match with the most casual outfits, too.

Velvet Hair Bows, Set of 2

These velvet hair bows boast double tails, which just gives them more body and visual appeal.

Free People Lady Bow

These frilly hair bows contrast with any hair texture, drawing in visual interest to your lovely locks.

A New Day Organza Bow Hair Barrette

This hair bow would be perfect for donning during special occasions!

Zig Zag Closing Time Bow

For an off-kilter hair bow, this color-studded one makes the ultimate addition to any updo.

Curried Myrrh Bryn Bow

This handcrafted bow will show up all your other hair accessories, since it's one-of-a-kind. Tack it onto the end of a braid, or clip it back to hold your bangs.

Kitsch Chiffon Polka Dot Bow Barrette

The ruffles on this pick are *so* charming.

Urban Outfitters Charming Hair Bow Barrette

Coquette fashion has never been better with some cute hair bows. These pink and white ones feature a lovely little heart charm to up the ante.

Tasha Satin Bow

This basic bow will go with you everywhere this year.

Free People Cozy Petite Bow

Feel the extreme softness in this hair bow's cozy fabric. It lays flat with a longer tail, so your hairstyle never gets boring, even when it's grown out.

Scünci No-Slip Grip® Basic Claw Hair Clips 3-Pack

These claw clips are tried and true. Each one is fitted with a grippy material on the inside that will help your hair stay put for hours on end.

Square Claw Clips 6-Pack

These subdued colors are great for pairing with any 'fit.

Claw Clips For Thick Hair 8-Pack

If you're a chronic outfit matcher, having a claw clip in every color available can help you coordinate. This colorful pack is a great option for building an ensemble!

Wednesday x Kitsch Checkered Claw Clips 2-Pack

The checkered look is so in right now. Wear the trend in your strands with this cute duo.

Jayongnee Claw Clips For Thick Hair 3-Pack

Thick haired peeps, listen up. You'll want this trio of claw clips for keeping your hair off your neck.

Super Smalls Casual Friday Super Clip

Remember when you used to bedazzle pretty much everything? This nostalgic claw clip features heaps of jewels for a unique look.

Centinelle California Magic Forest Flower Hair Claw

Though spring has come and gone, this flower claw clip will keep the spirit alive.

Winona Irene Bubble Claw

This claw clip will go swimmingly in between your hairs.

Flower Claw Clips 4-Pack

You carry multitudes – of hairstyles, that is! Come prepared for every look with this variety pack of claw clips.

Anna Sui Cat Hair Clamp

Pay homage to your pet with this catty claw clip.

Kitsch Open Shape Gold Claw Clip

This sleek claw clip works well in any hair type!

Edge of Urge Wild Rose Long Claw

This floral claw clip beats *all* claw clips. The color palette is just darling and will turn heads no matter where you are.

Wild Fable Jumbo Cherry Print Claw Hair Clip

This feminine piece is a great one to keep in your bag for any last-minute styling sessions.

Gimme Beauty Thick Hair Claw Clips 2-Pack

For the people with thick hair, these big claw clips will gather your hair seamlessly. They come in neutral, easy-to-pair colors, too, so you aren't left uncoordinated.

Rainbow Claw Clip

Everyone needs a pop of color in their life! This rainbow claw clip brings a burst of sunshine to your hairdo.

Chunks Swirl Claw

This swirly piece reminds us of soft-serve ice cream – which is the perfect reason to clip it in your hair.

Centinelle Lingonberry Bunny Hair Claw

This head-turning hair clip adorns your locks with a cute little bunny pal.

Barbie x Kitsch Assorted Claw Clip Set 3-Pack

Channel big Barbieenergy with this claw clip trio! They come in a range of sizes, so you can put your hair up however you'd like.

Acme Baby Co. Tomatoes Hair Claw

Tomato Girl summer doesn't have to be over! Fuel your European vacation dreams by donning this foodie-favored claw clip.

Chunks Nimbus Claw

This rainbow-covered claw clip makes a total statement!

Emi Jay Sweetheart Claw Clip

Balletcore is thriving at the moment. Stay on-trend with this decorative claw clip.

Edge of Urge Henbane Long Claw

Go for this dark design to literally put flowers in your hair.

Natural Life Octopus Hair Claw Clip

This claw clip has a little bit of every color, so it's sure to match with whatever outfit you're rockin'.

Jayongnee Cherry Claw Clips for Thin Hair 2-Pack

This fruity duo will work those strands any time of year.

Snack Break Glazed Mini Claw in Passionfruit

This multicolored claw clip can be used for full updo's or half-up half-down styles.

Lululemon Large Claw Hair Clip

For the more active, this claw from Lululemon will keep things in check when you're working out.

Machete Grande Tortoise Checker Heirloom Claw

This sturdy claw clip is super eye-catching, thanks to the checkered pattern.

Emi Jay Sweetheart Clip in Heaven Sent

This super-sweet claw clip emits feminine vibes – it would be perfect for sporting to pilates class!

Edge of Urge Serpent Hair Claw

Get a little cheeky with your hair accessories by slipping this slithery serpent in between your locks.

Adorn Emerald City Banana Hair Claw

This deep green hue is ideal for matching with your fall outfits!

1. Talking About Money Can Expose Hidden Feelings

It's impossible to know how someone feels every second of the day, but we probably all think we have a good understanding of the people we're close to. But people are capable of hiding how they feel about something or burying their discomfort until certain situations 'expose' them. Why does it seem like money has a way of doing this?

Both Irwin and Dunlap agree that "money is taboo," leading people to avoid conversations about it. "Data tells us that we are more likely to talk about any other taboo topic—sex, politics, religion, even death—before we’ll talk about money," says Dunlap. West agrees and says, "Money is like that one friend who’s incredibly helpful but totally untrustworthy—everyone likes what they bring to the table, but no one wants to talk about them directly." Did you think of someone specific? It's okay because I did too!

The problem is that money can make "hidden insecurities come out, old sibling rivalries rear their heads," and more, according to West. "Even something like 'who paid for what' can suddenly become a life-or death conversation," she says. It's strange because Irwin says a Wells Fargo study shows that "many Americans across all ages are worried about money," proving we're all thinking about it, despite our avoidance issues.

2. And Money Can Also Create Unease In Conversations

"When we don’t have open conversations about money, we’re left to navigate it on our own, which can keep us feeling underpaid, overworked, or unsure about our financial situation," Dunlap points out. She feels "discussing money requires a huge amount of vulnerability" which "isn't easy for everyone." You may have seen how other topics are swept under the rug by family members or friends based on reasons they're not ready to talk about.

Though Irwin believes saying something like saying, "'Here's what's keeping me up at night' or 'here's what my goals are' could strengthen connections," Dunlap knows that "shame, comparison, or fear of judgement" can cause people to remain tight-lipped about their finances.

If you've experienced a weird moment because of money or had to be the unfortunate witness of an awkward conversation, my apologies. It's not fun no matter who's involved because, unfortunately, "money carries layers of emotions, like pride and insecurity, that turn simple conversations into potential minefields," says West.

Dunlap says there's a silver lining if people are willing to be open, however. "The key is respecting each person’s comfort level, and encouraging openness if they're willing to meet you there. It’s not going to be perfect at first, but by starting to share more about your own financial experiences, you can start to break the cycle of shame and fear around money. You might be surprised at how quickly others are willing to open up too."

3. Making Assumptions About Other’s Money Status And Financial Situation Can Lead To Disrespecting Boundaries

No one's saying you should never lend friends money, but being mindful about the decision is worth noting. West feels "it's complicated" while Dunlap believes the issue "can be tricky." There's a chance a low-key loan becomes an expectation that you should dish out money every time someone needs help, even if you're trying to maintain your own bills. "Lending money to a friend is like sharing your Netflix password—simple in theory, but one wrong move, and things get weird," West forewarns.

Dunlap also says, "When you lend money to someone close to you, there's always the chance that you won’t get it back. You want to be mentally prepared for that! Otherwise, it can strain your finances and your relationship. The emotional toll can be just as heavy, as unpaid loans can lead to resentment or awkwardness." It's not unusual to hear about certain friends being unreliable in more ways than one after you've let them borrow something. Unfortunately, Irwin indicates this happens because some people "don't expect to give something back that they've borrowed."

Because of this, Dunlap thinks "it's best to avoid loans if possible." Should you decide to move forward with helping out a friend who's in a bind, make sure you're both in agreement about repayment and what to expect moving forward. West says "having clear terms" or "gifting a small amount if you can afford it" is like "buying their friendship insurance." The latter is something Dunlap agrees with because it "helps prevent resentment if they can't pay you back as planned." Plus, she feels it also "keeps the loan within an amount you're okay with potentially losing."

4. Lending Money Is A Slippery Slope That Can Lead To Distrust And Resentment

It's amazing how money can lead to a friendship breakup if boundaries aren't created or respected. "Money is a sneaky little devil who can push everyone’s buttons. It can cause resentment if one person feels taken advantage of or someone’s 'casual loan' becomes an epic saga of unpaid IOUs," West says. Not only that, but Dunlap knows "money can strain relationships between friends and family by highlighting differences in how we value it, expect to use it, or feel about sharing it."

Friends and family members shouldn't take each other's kindness for granted, but human nature is fickle at times. That's not an indicator that someone you love is a "bad" person, but they may feel like you owe them your time and money. However, Irwin says this isn't "de facto that that person is entitled." Still, Dunlap is more than aware how this can play out. "For example, it can lead to resentment if one person is always the one picking up the tab, while another might feel uncomfortable or indebted because they’ve been helped financially," she says.

On the other hand, it can show up a little differently in families. She adds, "Issues like unequal inheritance or constant requests for financial help can lead to deep emotional tension. Money can also become a tool for power imbalances, where one person feels in control and the other feels dependent, and that can mess with trust and respect."

When certain negative patterns show up in relationships, it can make people decide to take a step back from being available. "And once distrust settles in, it’s hard to shake; nobody wants to be 'that friend' who’s forever dodging a Venmo request or getting side-eye from relatives at every family BBQ," West points out. How many times have you built up a wall with the people you love because of repeated unreliability or the expectation that you're supposed to help them whenever they ask? If you didn't hesitate to think of a moment, you're living proof that distrust can affect even the closest relationships.

Dunlap says, "When money becomes a main factor in a relationship, it can overshadow the connection, making it difficult to maintain genuine trust and understanding. You can avoid this by having open conversations with friends and family about your financial situation. Clear communication can help keep the focus on the relationship, not the money."

5. You Can Worry You're Not A Good Friend Or Family Member For Setting Money Boundaries

Worrying about how other people feel can keep us from setting boundaries. There's a difference between being an empath and a people pleaser, but it's easy to blur the lines. You can absolutely empathize with someone's hardship while knowing you're not in the position to lend the amount they may be looking for. I'm a huge fan of saying that two things can be true at once — because they can.

Irwin says you need to "address the conversation head on" if a friend does ask you for a loan. Your response may depend on if their ask was "emotionally-charged or "in an uncomfortable environment," but Irwin doesn't recommend ignoring it. If you're not in the space to respond, here's what she suggests saying in a "timely" fashion:

1. "Hey, I need time to think about this. Let me get back to you."
2. "We can help you, but here are our boundaries."
3. "We see and understand you, but we're unable to help because we're trying to pay off debt or save for _______."

Yes, Financial Boundaries Are Essential

Don't think you need to create financial boundaries for yourself and your friends? Think again. West says, "Establishing some ground rules is a lifesaver—think of it adding airbags to the friendship. Setting boundaries early on, like when you’re still in the happy, non-monetary part of the relationship, can protect both sides if things get sticky."

Here's how she advises you proceed with creating boundaries:

1. Keep it light and be honest; you’re not making a prenuptial agreement here, just letting them know you’d like to avoid “financial fireworks” later.
2. Say, “I’m your friend, not your ATM.” It’s funny but helps set the tone that your wallet isn’t a free-for-all.
3. Set a gift cap, such as, "I'm happy to chip in for brunch or a birthday, but let’s not get into home-loan territory.”
4. If you do lend, draw up a repayment plan. Think of it as adulting with a side of accountability to avoid “accidentally” becoming their financial fairy godmother.
5. Limit talk of big financial choices unless you’re genuinely invested together. After all, nobody needs to know how much their friend spends on avocado toast or scented candles, let alone home renos.
6. A little humor and some boundaries go a long way. You’ll save yourself a lot of awkwardness and keep the friendships intact, one “non-loaned” dollar at a time!

Tori says, "It's so important to have transparent conversations about money, set clear boundaries, and ensure that relationships are prioritized in any money exchange." Here are a few things you can try:

1. Communicate about your budget with a “gratitude sandwich.” Say you’re invited to an outing—a dinner, or a sports game—that isn’t within your budget right now. You can respond with the “gratitude sandwich.” The “pieces of bread” are positive, and the “meat” is the money thing you’re scared to say. Thank that person for the invite, let them know it’s not within budget right now, and then offer a cheaper alternative, reassuring them that you’d really love to see them. Offering an alternative reminds that person that declining their invitation isn’t about them, and you still care about them. In doing so, you prioritize your budget AND your relationship in the process.When in doubt, remember that no is a complete sentence. You don’t need to overcomplicate things, and sometimes a simple “no” is all you need.
2. Set expectations early. When planning trips with friends, discuss the budget and how costs will be split upfront. Having these conversations ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any misunderstandings. It creates a supportive, stress-free environment where everyone can enjoy the experience together without any added worries!

The Final Verdict:

Once you've weighed your options and considered what you need, you can decide to loan your friend money. However, Irwin wants you to consider being formal about it. "You can absolutely draft a promissory note or loan agreement so that your friend knows how serious you are about your boundaries. If you want, you can also put an interest rate on it," she says.

It's not to hurt your friend's feelings, but it is a boundary you can put in place so they think to themselves, "This is truly a loan because I'm borrowing money with the intent to pay it back," Irwin says. It could change the dynamics of your friendship, but it's more about being "purposeful about the language being used" so you and your friend can both move in the "right direction," according to Irwin.

If the idea of creating a 'loan agreement' sounds icky to you, Dunlap wants you to seriously consider it as "an extra bit of protection." She says all you need to do, again, is "try setting up a simple contract to outline repayment terms" because it "can help both of you stay on the same page and avoid misunderstandings down the road."

Her ultimate piece of advice? "Only lend what you're comfortable giving and potentially losing, and keep open communication to maintain trust and respect in the relationship."