22 Metal Hair Accessories to Amp Up Any ‘Do

Whether your go-to ‘do is beachy waves, funky braids, messy topknots (or low buns), a slicked back pony or your natural curl, adding an embellishment can take your tresses over the top. And the great thing is, it doesn’t matter what color, cut or style you’re rockin’. Pick any of these accessories in shades of classic gold, rose gold and silver to turn up the volume on your signature style. Rock on!

1. Flower Pearl Hair Crown ($19): To add a subtle touch of grace and femininity to your tousled top knot, simply add this elasticized flower crown. The combination of petals and pearls linked together with a delicate chain add a certain je ne sais quoi to any outfit.

2. Karen Hair Clip ($55): Stella and Bow must have their Mean Girls confused because we’re pretty sure it was Gretchen’s hair that was so big it was full of secrets. Maybe they have a personal mean girl in their lives named Karen? Either way, grab your teasing comb and start going to work before clipping in this 14k gold plated barrette.

3. The Tusk Comb ($120): Spotted on Chrissy Teigen at this year’s ESPY awards, this safari-inspired 24-karat gold plated hair comb is a chic, sleek way to sweep back your tresses while making a statement.

4. Brigette Hair Chain ($36): This clip-in is the perfect addition to a tousled hairstyle, adding a classic flash of glamour in diamante crystals. Dress up a daytime look or wear with your party dress for an instant wardrobe update.

5. Punk Stud Cluster Comb ($165): It’s easy to channel your inner punk rock princess with a rose gold studded cluster comb. Also available in gold and antique silver, all three add an angsty touch of class to any special occasion.

6. India Coin Headpiece ($28): Get it, get it, get it, get it — what?? This belly-dancer-inspired headpiece makes us want to get up and shimmy with a snake on our shoulders, Britney style.

7. Capsule Ponytail Clip ($18): Perfect for a five-minute pony, this insanely rad gold ponytail clip amps up your plain black rubber band and features a clean, cylindrical design. Slick back your hair and add this for a sleek, minimal look!

8. Goddess Leaves Hair Crown ($28): Friends, Romans, country(wo)men, lend us your ears! Sport this structured headband in polished goldtone metal. Set atop your head, it features sculpted leaves near the front for a modern-day take on the laurel wreath.

9. Rose Gold Ponytail Barrette ($67): This curved metal barrette is perfect to cuff a curly low pony and will definitely ensure strong #ponygame.

10. Metal Flower Hair Tiara ($48): The pearl center of these goldtone peonies just pop! We love flower crowns for spring, summer or fall, but this metal piece will last through all seasons and definitely won’t wilt on your wedding day, especially if you’re planning wintertime nuptials.

11. Golden Feather Bobby Pin Set ($16): Birds of a feather flock together… and stay golden! Aren’t these bobby pins simply adorable?

12. Spike Chain Headpiece ($120): Good things come in threes! We love a statement necklace to add flair to our wardrobe basics, and this clip-on spike accent gives half-pony and full-pony styles an edgier look. We’ve also got a DIY-chain necklace ponytail style for you to check out!

13. Gold Starfish Bobby Pins ($16): Ahoy, mateys! These nautical bobby pins would be the perfect touch to sailor stripes and Sperrys.

14. Preforated Metal Barrette ($12): The tiny cutout detailing of this sleek hair clip in polished metal is ideal for a #wokeuplikedis ‘do — especially handy for mornings when your alarm clock doesn’t go off.

15. Annie Crystal Crown ($128): This is our kind of tiara! We adore the center stone of hand-cut Arizona turquoise accented on both sides with Arkansas quartz crystals. American made with an adjustable leather cord, it can also be layered atop your favorite hat to add a boho accent.

16. Gilded Glow Hair Tie ($11): The gold bar detailing and mega stretch elastic of this hair tie is the perfect way to update your pony!

17. Party Time Girl Talk Headband ($15): We don’t care if it’s our birthday or just Wednesday. This is becoming our signature accessory.

18. Little Leaf Headband ($14): Delicate and dainty, this sleek metal headband features a sculpted leaf crown to adorn your tresses, long or short. We love it with a gossamer, flowy top or simple shirtdress.

19. Geo Metal Goddess Chain Headwrap ($19): Paired with a maxi dress, could this look get any more effortless? This featherweight headpiece is the perfect go-to look for outdoor music festivals or the farmers market.

20. Cara Vintage Crystal Hair Comb ($39): The darling pink and amber sparkly stones set in a curved leaf design of this whimsical, ultra-girly gem-encrusted hair slide would add the right amount of glitz and innocence to an updo or low bun.

21. Stud Muffin Ponytail Holder ($6): We have a feeling this is the kind of scrunchie Carrie Bradshaw wouldn’t mind wearing! Take your ponytail to the next level with this amazing silver studded ponytail holder with a hinge closure. Looks great with a bold lip color and winged eyeliner!

22. Ban.do Girl Talk Bobbi Pins ($15 each set): If boots were made for walkin’, these bobbi pins are made for talkin’! All good things come in threes, just like neapolitan ice cream! Each set comes with three bobbi pins that speak for themselves. Don’t forget to check out other Ban.do hair accessories in the B+C shop!

How do you rock out with metal hair accessories? Drop us a comment below or on Facebook or Twitter!

From Kamala Harris-inspired bobs to silky Lindsay Lohan-esque tresses, the season of the silk press (or straighter hairstyles) is officially here! It's been fun watching watching TikTok videos of women going to the salon to get their hair straightened, but it made me ask myself if people truly know how to maintain this style at home. It's one thing to watch a licensed hairstylist work their magic, but the upkeep may not be as straightforward for some people!

Luckily, celebrity hairstylists, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew and Natalie Lamorena, are here to answer all my burning questions. Sturdivant-Drew has over 20 years of experience working in the film and commercial industry, styling clients such as Kerry Washington, Lucy Liu, and Ashley Graham. She also worked on TV series like Suits and the Oscar-nominated film Ray. Lamorena owns Polished Pub Hair & Nail Bar— not to mention she invented the viral "Headicure" service for clients who love the idea of getting a manicure while receiving the best blowout of their lives. And with all that experience, the two of them have plenty to say about silk presses.

TL;DR

  • You should rely on professionals for the majority of your silk presses, but you can maintain them at home with "the right tools and products."
  • Different hair types require different temperatures and products — be sure to research and check with your hair dresser to make sure your treating your hair the right way.
  • Don't get a silk press if you've recently straightened your hair.
  • Heat protectant is key for any silk press or hair straightening.
  • Naturally curly or textured hair should limit silk presses to once or twice a month; other hair types should keep it to no more than once a week.
  • Be sure to wrap your hair correctly and use a bonnet to maintain your style.

How do you know when to straighten your hair at home or go to the salon?

Sephora

Desperate times call for desperate measures when you're due for a hair appointment and can't book one. I'm sure all of us have turned into an armchair hairstylist by giving ourselves a trim, quick haircut, or dye job. You've probably even watched a few tutorials about how to give yourself a homemade silk press or blowout. I know I've recently purchased a few things to help me maintain my hair at home, but should we be straightening our hair at home?

Lamorena says, "While it’s possible to straighten hair at home, I’d recommend going to a professional for the best results. Stylists know how to work with different hair types, adjust heat settings accordingly, and use high-quality products that protect your hair." If we decide to forego a stylist's expertise, she says we can "accidentally cause damage with uneven heat or over-processing."

Sturdivant-Drew agrees that it's best to see a stylist "for the first few silk presses," but it's not impossible to safely straighten your own hair. "If you have the right tools and products, along with research, you can achieve this hairstyle at home," she says.

How should different hair types approach a silk press?

Sephora

Just like everyone doesn't have the same skin complexion or undertones, hair types can differ too. This means someone with a fine hair isn't always going to have the same routine as someone with thicker strands — which is why all silk presses aren't the same. "There's definitely no one-size-fits-all approach. The technique used depends on the client’s hair type and texture," Lamorena confirms. This isn't to scare you, however!

Sturdivant-Drew says, "The process of getting a silk press is pretty standard — prepping the hair with shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant, followed by straightening with a blow dryer and flat iron, and finishing with a lightweight oil or serum."

She and Lamorena do agree that some hair textures require a little more than others though. Lamorena says you could only need "a simple blowout and flat iron" while someone may need "more intensive treatments like keratin or a Brazilian blowout for longer-lasting results." If your hair is very curly or textured — and you're ultimately not seeing the results you want — she says chemically straightening your hair is another option. However, Sturdivant-Drew reminds me, "Stylists usually adjust heat settings based on their client's hair health and texture."

Either way, we always recommend you check with your stylist before making any permanent or lasting decisions!

What should you avoid doing before getting a silk press?

Mike Jones

Getting a silk press doesn't always involve chemicals, but there are still things you need to avoid before your appointment. Unlike the steps you may follow at home, Lamorena wants you to "avoid loading your hair with a bunch of heavy products " because this can "make the straightening process less effective and lead to more heat being used" than you need. Also, she doesn't want you to wash your hair because "natural oils protect your hair from the heat."

It probably goes without saying, but you also shouldn't book a silk press appointment if you've already straightened your hair. "...that can make it harder for the stylist to work with and could increase the risk of damage," says Lamorena. Besides that, Sturdivant-Drew advises against "using color or relaxers should be avoided before getting a silk press" because "this could lead to a lot of breakage."

What increases a risk of heat damage with this style?

Amazon

As gorgeous as silk presses are, it's possible to use "too much heat," according to Lamorena. She says, "People tend to crank up the heat on their flat irons and blow dryers, but that can seriously damage the hair cuticle, especially if your hair is fine or already fragile." Something I've learned over time is that a licensed and experienced hair stylist has better knowledge of what's really going on with our hair. They're able to have a clearer view of your scalp, roots, split ends, and more.

The other thing that contribute to damage is not protecting your hair. Lamorena implores that heat protectant products are "are crucial for minimizing damage." Even if you use the right products, you could be straightening your hair way too often. It's normal to want to have straighter hairstyles for a little while, but you should keep in mind that you don't want to overdo it.

"Not prepping or using a heat protectant on your hair will cause a lot of damage. Silk presses require a lot of heat, so it's best to use good heat protectant," adds Sturdivant-Drew. She personally prefers to use Smooth Moisture's Thermal Hair Strengthener because "their system is built for silk presses specifically." She loves that it truly upholds against heat and "adds a nice shine to the hair" once you apply it.

When would it be recommended that a client avoid getting a silk press?

Kaboompics.com

Here comes the not so fun part. As much as you don't want to hear this, your hair may not be able to handle getting a silk press right now. "If your hair is already damaged, it's best to hold off on straightening. Hair that's brittle, dry, or over-processed can be further damaged by heat styling," says Lamorena. What you can do in the meantime is help strengthen your hair by giving yourself "deep conditioning treatments," according to Lamorena.

This is completely up to you and your stylish, but Lamorena suggests staying away from having your hair straightened "during really humid months...if you're prone to frizz" because "the style may not last as long."

Is there a limit to how often clients should receive a silk press?

Tomaz Barcellos

I'm not an expert, but even I know too much of something can become a bad thing. In the case of using excess heat, I can imagine the implications of that over time. Lamorena says, "There's definitely a limit. You don't want to be straightening your hair too often," and shares her rule of thumb for textures:

  • Naturally Curly or Textured Hair — Limit silk presses to once or twice a month to avoid weakening the hair or losing your curl pattern.
  • Other Hair Types — Keep it to no more than once a week.

All hair types are capable of experiencing "long-term damage," but giving "your hair a break between sessions helps maintain its health," Lamorena says.

Sturdivant-Drew stresses, "Taking a break between silk presses is important in allowing your hair to recover and maintain the health of your hair. I recommend limiting your silk presses to every 6-8 weeks."

How can clients maintain this style at home during the fall?

Sephora

Even though cooler temperatures means you won't have to fight against possible frizz, you still have to take care of your silk press. "Maintaining a straight style during the fall can be tricky with cooler weather, wind, and dryness in the air, but it’s doable," says Lamorena. She suggests that you use:

  • Use a flat iron with adjustable heat settings to avoid unnecessary damage. Tools like the Dyson Corrale or GHD Platinum+ are solid options
  • A wide-tooth comb is great for detangling without pulling or breaking the hair

"Keeping up with a regular routine and using the right tools and products can really help your style last, even through the challenges that fall weather brings," she says.

No matter what your hair type is, Sturdivant-Drew suggests "wrapping your hair correctly and using a bonnet" as they're "key to maintaining" a silk press. Similar to what Lamorena said earlier, Sturdivant-Drew believes "humidity is your worst enemy...so try to avoid humid environments as best as possible!"

Shop Other Expert Silk Press Recommendations

Amazon

Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer

"Always apply a heat protectant before using any hot tools. Some favorites include Oribe Royal Blowout and Bumble and Bumble Invisible Oil Primer," she says.

Amazon

Moroccanoil Treatment

"For taming frizz, try an anti-frizz serum like Moroccanoil Treatment," suggests Lamorena. or John Frieda Frizz Ease.

Amazon

John Frieda Frizz Ease

Another option you can use to beat the frizz is John Frieda's Frizz Ease. It's another one of Lamorena's recommendations that will "help seal in moisture and keep your style sleek even in windy fall weather."

Amazon

Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime

Lamorena says, "A good leave-in conditioner is key to keeping hair smooth and hydrated; Kérastase Discipline Fluidissime works wonders."

Amazon

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day

"To extend your style without washing, use dry shampoo. This is a great option to absorb oil without having to restyle with heat," she says.

Our Silk Press Recommendations

Amazon

Giovanni Frizz Be Gone Serum

This anti-frizz serum will not only keep humidity from messing up your silk press, but it'll help improve your hair's elasticity over time and will even add an extra boost of shine to it.

Amazon

Wavytalk Professional Hair Dryer with Diffuser

If you decide to straighten your hair at home, you need a good blow dryer that'll work with your texture. Wavytalk has an inexpensive option that comes with a comb attachment, diffuser, and nozzle to help you dry your hair no matter what style you're wearing. It also has the right amount of heat settings that'll lessen the chance you cause any damage.

Amazon

CHI 44 Iron Guard Heat Protectant

Not only do I personally love this heat protectant, so does our Affiliate Writer Meredith Holser! It's been our go-to product whenever we straighten our hair because it truly does a great job of protecting our hair from heat and has a slightly fragrant smell we can't get enough of. In my experience, a little goes a long way so you'll get plenty of uses out of it.

Follow our Amazon storefront to see which hair products we'll always keep in our bathrooms.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Life has a way of testing couples at every stage of their lives — just ask John Mulaney and Olivia Munn. From meeting a wedding to becoming parents together, they've almost seen it all. But, nothing is scarier than watching your partner fight a breast cancer diagnosis and doing your best to support them.

However, their story isn't just comprised of hard moments — the couple just shared they welcomed their second child together via surrogate! Here's everything to know about their relationship, including their brand new bundle of joy!

See John Mulaney & Olivia Munn's Complete Dating History Here!

Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

2013 — Olivia Munn Remembers Meeting John Mulaney

Olivia Munn and John Mulaney's story began in 2013 when they met for the first time. "We were at a wedding and I was like, 'Oh my gosh, do you and your fiancé want to go have dinner or something and hang out," she told HuffPost Live. But, she thought she may have gone overboard because her email to the comedian never got a response. "I might've got the wrong email...That's what I tell myself."

December 2020 — Olivia Munn Offers Support As John Mulaney Checks Into Rehab

After that, John Mulaney married his then-fiancé, Anna Marie Tendler (via TODAY) while Olivia Munn dated Green Bay Packers quarterback, Aaron Rodgers (via US Magazine). After Munn and Rodgers split, she then went on to date Álex Gonzàlez and Philadelphia Fusion president Tucker Rodgers.

Olivia Munn and John Mulaney didn't have any contact until the end of 2020 when the Mulaney experienced a relapse. It was clear Olivia hadn't forgotten about him because she reportedly tweeted, "Sending SO MUCH love and support to John Mulaney" before adding, "You got this," (via Vanity Fair).

Eric Charbonneau/Netflix

May 10, 2021 — John Mulaney Divorces From Anna Marie Tendler

John must've gained a lot of clarity during his time in rehab — he decided to divorce from Anna Marie Tendler once he came home. Though a spokesperson told Page Six, "John will not have any further comment as he continues to focus on his recovery and getting back to work," Anna chose to acknowledge how "heartbroken" she was.

Netflix

May 13, 2021 — John Mulaney And Olivia Munn Reportedly Start Dating

Olivia Munn and John Mulaney were rumored to be an item days after the latter's divorce news became public. A close source said to PEOPLE, "This is very new, they're taking it slowly." 👀

June 2021 — Olivia Munn And John Mulaney's First Public Outing

The new couple didn't issue a public statement about their relationship, but they were seen together at Rick's Drive In & Out after speculations about them were shared. A source who spotted the couple told PEOPLE, "They were having a great time during lunch, laughing and talking...enjoying each other's company."

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

September 2021 — John Speaks About Olivia's Pregnancy

When John Mulaney sat on the Late Night with Seth Myers couch, he talked about how life was going and shared some pretty big news with Seth Myers. "I went to rehab in September, I got out in October, I moved out of my home from my ex-wife … Then in the spring I went to Los Angeles and met and started to date a wonderful woman named Olivia," he said. Then he dropped the happy bombshell. "And we're having a baby together..." A source couldn't wait to reveal to PEOPLE how "extremely excited" they were to be having their first child together.

September 22, 2021 — Olivia Munn Talks Openly About Her Pregnancy

Olivia opened up about her pregnancy and even made a joke or two about how it was going at the time. "I've been getting a lot of rest and eating the right foods," she told PEOPLE. She also mentioned how her friends were responsible for her being "sane" during this time!

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

November 2021 — Olivia Munn Shares How She Feels About Public Scrutiny Of Her Relationship With John Mulaney

It seems we weren't the only ones interested in the details of Olivia and John's relationship because other people were making speculations about it. "It's definitely not foreign for me to have people speculate incorrectly about things and to have rumors run rampant in one way," she said to the Los Angeles Times. She went on to mention how people were clueless about "what any of his relationships were."

November 24, 2021 — John Mulaney And Olivia Munn Welcome Their First Baby

Not long after Olivia told everyone to mind their business, she and John welcomed their first son, Malcolm Hiệp Mulaney (via PEOPLE) on November 24, 2021. However, the couple didn't share him with the world until the following month. They shared separated Instagramphotos about their son's arrival — and the posts were nothing short of precious.

John wrote, "Meet Malcolm Hiệp Mulaney. He has his whole life ahead of him. He hasn't even tried seltzer yet. I'm very in love with him and his whole deal. Happy Holidays" on his caption while Olivia wrote, "My Golden Ox baby. Malcolm Hiệp Mulaney. Happy Holidays."

Netflix

February 2022 — John Mulaney Happily Talks About His Son While Hosting SNL

John took his time to gush about his family while hostingSNL a few months later. Stating that "Life is a lot better," he said his son was "pretty cool" and even joked about seeing the first few remnants of little Malcom's personality. While his son was on the warmer in the hospital, John could see "...he was annoyed." All he could think to himself was, "'That's my son.' A polite man in an uncomfortable situation..."

March 2022 — Olivia Munn Shares BTS Moments Of John Mulaney And Baby Malcolm

Olivia captured sweet BTS moments of John Mulaney and baby Malcolm on the set of SNL. She wrote, "Malcolm visited SNL Thursday afternoon. Here he is looking like your uncle being carried out of a wedding because he went too hard" as her funny caption.

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images for Vogue

August 27, 2022 — John Mulaney Celebrates Turning 40

John Mulaney celebrated his 40th birthday on an empty stage surrounded by balloons, streamers, and baby Malcom. "There is truly no better way to turn 40," his caption reads. Unfortunately, some of the comments didn't focus on the sweet moment of a father holding his son, but they didn't get a response from John so we hope they were worth it!

October 11, 2022 — Malcolm Says His First Word

Most moms can relate to the fact their child's first word usually isn't mama. In true kiddo form, baby Malcolm's "first word was Daddy/Dada," according to this cute video clip Olivia Munn posted. In it, you can hear little one saying a couple of more words to the amusement of his parents.

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

November 24, 2022 — Baby Malcom Turns One

The couple celebrated Baby Malcom's first birthday a little over a month after he spoke his first word and we wish someone would gift us a yummy chocolate cake based on how much fun it seems he had.

Olivia's Instagram caption reads, "Just got back from celebrating ONE YEAR of the most joyful baby being in this world and in our lives. My son, my joy. Happiest Birthday Malcolm Hiệp! I love you so so so much."

January 9, 2024 — Olivia And John Make It Red Carpet Official

The couple showed up on the red carpet together for the first time and they looked stunning! They attended the Governors Awards in L.A. and couldn't stop making heart eyes at each other.

Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images

March 13, 2024 — Olivia Munn Shares A Shocking Diagnosis

Unfortunately, Olivia Munn revealed she'd been quietly navigating a breast cancer diagnosis on Instagram. She shared a carousel of photos that detailed her journey from discovery to treatment and was met with support of actresses like Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon.

"I'm so thankful to my friends and family for loving me through this. I'm so thankful to John for the nights he spent researching what every operation and medication meant and what side effects and recovery I could expect," she wrote.

July 10, 2024 — John Mulaney And Olivia Munn Tie The Knot

The couple took their relationship further by getting married earlier this summer. Their ceremony wasn't over-the-top nor did it involve a lot of people, according to PEOPLE. Olivia Munn's The Newsroom co-star, Sam Waterston was their officiant while Baby Malcolm and an onlooker witnessed the couple dedicate their lives to each other.

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

September 14, 2024: John Mulaney and Olivia Munn's Second Baby Is Born

Shocking everyone, the couple announced the birth of their daughter Méi June Mulaney on Instagram. Welcomed via surrogate, Olivia revealed how she felt about this part of her and John's journey as parents. "I had so many profound emotions about not being able to carry my daughter. When I first met our gestational surrogate we spoke mother to mother. She showed me so much grace and understanding, I knew I had found a real-life angel," she wrote in her caption.

October 24, 2025: John Mulaney Praises Olivia Munn In Moving Speech

As evidenced by his passionate speech at InStyle's inaugural Imagemaker Award, John's no stranger to expressing his love for his wife. Olivia received the Woman of Impact award which seeks to celebrate a celebrity who's used their platform to shed light on something they genuinely care about (via PEOPLE). John used the time he presented the award to Olivia to talk about the breast cancer diagnosis that rocked their worlds.

"About a year [after learning of her diagnosis], Olivia shared her story," he began. "This was a cancer that was not detected from a BRCA gene test, it was not detected by a mammogram. It was detected because she took a heretofore not-that-known test called the lifetime breast cancer risk assessment test and they found that she had a 37 percent chance of breast cancer. And about a month later, she was having a double mastectomy. She shared her story to help anyone she could. According to the National Cancer Institute, in the week after Olivia shared the story of her breast cancer journey, there was a 4,000 percent increase in women visiting the breast cancer risk assessment. That was the first week. Olivia saving lives by speaking her truth is not surprising to me."

We love to see how John has been standing by her side throughout each stage of their relationship and wish them all the best!

November 12, 2024: John Mulaney Reveals Why Olivia Munn Drug Tested Him While Pregnant

In an article for GQ, John Mulaney and Olivia Munn got radically vulnerable about his recovery process. Olivia describes John's post-rehab self — and early on in their relationship, at that — as really unsteady and unsure of his sobriety. She says, "It was like watching a man in a tsunami. I was watching someone newly sober, at the edge of a cliff, and I didn’t know him well enough to help him."

John told her he was afraid of relapsing, but Olivia also explains that her pregnancy didn't seem to be what scared him or fueled his relapse fears. She says, “That’s the one thing that made him seem light and happy. I remember he was really excited to tell his parents.”

Still, Olivia wanted to be an active participant in John's recovery, so she started drug testing him randomly — all while she was six months pregnant. According to John, this was "a relief," and it's a habit they still have today. He says, “I like to be able to not even have that be a question in her or anyone else’s mind. Something about peeing in that cup is like, I’m walking this walk. It gives me confidence.”

Follow us on Facebook for more celeb news!

This post has been updated.

It's getting to be that time of year where everyone's looking to switch up their hairroutine just a bit — it's the perfect time to try someone slightly new to welcome the new season. But if you're anything like me, then you're portably looking for something that is fun and new but still super low maintenance. I just want to be able to get a haircut that makes styling my hair much easier, not harder — is that too much to ask?

We've all gotten those haircuts that ended up being way too much work in the end, so we asked the experts to get some low maintenance hair inspo for those of us that have medium length hair. We talked toWilliam Whatley(celebrity hairstylist), Katelyn Ellsworth(The Roslyn salon), Bryce Scarlett (celebrity hairstylist), Nickie Alton (Master Stylist), Rachel Eggie (Salon owner), and Terri Rehkopf (Ippodaro Salon) for their hot takes and opinions. Keep scrolling to read their best tips!

Textured Curtain Bangs

Instagram/@brycescarlett

This textured curtain bang — where your bangs are parted down the middle and styled with soft, feathered layers that frame the face — is a super versatile haircut, as shown on Daisy Edgar Jones. These are definitely an upgrade from the classic curtain bangs you may be used to seeing all over the internet lately!

Celeb hairstylist, Bryce Scarlett, let us know that the texture adds movement and a natural, effortless vibe to the overall look — making it super easy to style! The effortless look matches the vibe of the season this fall.

Long Bob

Claire Craig

Celebrity Hair Stylist William Whatley said that transitioning to a medium length bob is going to give you so many options, whether it’s layered or all one length. And since it's not too short, Whatley mentioned that you'll be able to wear it up or pull it back, freeing your face on those days when you just can't deal with it in your face. Whether you have a fringe with the bob or you don’t have a fringe with the bob, it allows you to create some fun options with this particular hairstyle

As one of William's signature cuts, he particularly loves doing a very layered bob to create a lot more movement with just a blow dryer and a toss of the head. You get a nice style with volume by styling it that way! However, with a bob that's all one length, you can just let it dry and go. We love the sounds of that!

Long Layers

Nickie Alton

Another amazing style for our girls with medium length hair? Some long layers. Hair stylist, Nickie Alton recommends these because of how they make your hair flow when styling. According to Alton, these long layers will help to add some “movement” in your every day style.

Long layers also tend to grow out seamlessly, giving a more effortless lived in look. This style is one of my personal go-tos because of the endless styling options — you can wear it messy and lived in, straight, or curled. The world is your styling oyster!

Textured Short-Medium Length Cut 

Nickie Alton

Alton also recommends this short and sweet hairstyle! It's on the shorter side of medium length hair, and we're fully obsessed with it! This haircut will really help to frame your face, and define your features. Plus, with the texture from the layers, it will be so easy to style! Easy maintenance = big win for us lazy girls!

Soft Layers

Rachel Eggie

Rachel Eggie Gibbs, Owner of EGGIE Salon Studio, recommends these beautiful soft layers and long bangs to help enhance your natural hair texture. This means that you can embrace your natural wave or curl pattern without extensive styling, making it easy to manage. So this is curly-haired girl approved, which we love to hear! This also require less trims, because the more it grows out, the easier it is to maintain!

Light, Layered Strands

Katelyn Ellsworth

Katelyn Ellsworth, of The Roslyn salon, also gave us some great tips for medium length of hair. She let us know that you want to cut for the texture of their hair specifically. If you consider yourself low maintenance, then you're most likely not doing a lot of heat styling on a regular basis, so you want to cut your hair keeping that in mind, too. (AKA get a hair cut that is great for air drying!)

Given the unique texture needs, these layers will differ from person to person! Face framing layers are good that fall naturally and create some style without daily effort. Lightly layered strands are also a great call as these don't require a lot of styling. Whatever you go for, this easy look is A+ for sure!

Blunt Cut

Katelyn Ellsworth

Lastly, Ellsworth recommended this blunt cut for low maintenance gals! She says that this cut is also a great option because it makes your hair look healthy and thick without having to style! I, personally, love getting a blunt cut because it makes my hair look so much more luscious and full!

Subscribe to our newsletter to see more hair inspo!

After years of white paint neglect, the fifth wall — AKA your ceiling — is finally having its moment. From playful wallpapers and brightly painted stripes to statement chandeliers that venture beyond the dining room, and modern woodwork and moulding details, ceilings are looking better than ever. Here is ceiling inspiration to bring home with you and spark your own creative designs!

Keep scrolling to see genius inspiration for how to wallpaper and paint your ceiling:

Wallpaper Ideas

BelArte Studio

BelArte Studio Artistic Lines White

For a more graphic maximalist look, this abstract wall mural does the trick in four different colors.

BelArte Studio

BelArte Studio Sky Wild Forest Ivy Green

Go bold on the ceiling with this hand painted forest wallpaper that climbs from the ceiling and down the wall for a stunning conversation piece.

@addisonswonderland via Hygge & West

Hygge & West Daydream Wallpaper

Kids rooms are a great place to play with pattern and spark kids imaginations as they drift off to sleep. This design by @addisonswonderland uses Hygge & West's soaring birds and floating clouds overhead.

@oakandpillar via Hygge & West

Hygge & West Daydream Wallpaper

In another colorway for a completely different look, @oakandpillar used this Daydream Wallpaper in gold to pair with the gorgeous dark cabinetry here.

@cassmakeshome via Hygge & West

Hygge & West Forest Floor

This ceiling installation by Cass Smith of @cassmakeshome is a dramatic statement in atop a neutral space.

Graham & Brown

Graham & Brown Tramonto Amber Wallpaper

Get creative with wallpaper on the ceiling and then a faux headboard to match!

Graham & Brown

Graham & Brown Midnight Tropic Wallpaper

Powder rooms are perfect for a playful wallpapered ceiling aesthetic.

Photowall

Photowall Silhouettes in Flight

Using wallpaper to accentuate a beautiful molding is an easy yet impactful way to upgrade your decor.

Wallpaper Tips

Wayfair

York Wall Coverings Evening Star Geometric

Try two complementary wallpapers, like a floral and a graphic, for an eclectic look.

Wallpaper Tips:

  • Work with a buddy: Hanging wallpaper on a ceiling can be tricky, so having an extra set of hands can make it much easier.
  • Use a temporary support: For longer strips, you might need to support the wallpaper temporarily with painter's tape until it's actually secured.
  • Consider your lighting situation: When choosing wallpaper, keep in mind how ceiling lighting will affect the wallpaper color and pattern. Make sure to test a swatch by taping it to the ceiling and observing the day and night light.

Paint Ideas

Maison Deux

These circus stripes from design retailer Maison Deux are so on trend right now and just so fun!

Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball Broccoli Brown

Color drench your rooms from floor to ceiling with this dark stone color that feels natural and elegant and totally on trend.

Farrow & Ball

Farrow & Ball Sulking Room Pink

Pair complementary tones like this muted rose in Farrow & Ball Calamine and richer pink for a color blocked aesthetic.

@kyrosedesign via Clare Paint

Clare Paint Good Jeans Paint

Here's another cozy color-drenched look by @kyrosedesign.

Dulux

Dulux Paint Pressed Petal

Try a statement stripe that creates a dining moment for two.

Painting Tips

Dulux

Painting Tips

  • Paint in natural light: If possible, paint during the day when natural light is brightest. This helps you catch any missed spots or uneven coverage more easily.
  • Start with the edges: Use a brush to “cut in” around the edges of the ceiling, creating a border. This makes it easier to roll paint up to the edges without bumping into walls or light fixtures.
  • Use a pole extension: An extension pole gives you better control, minimizes neck strain, and helps you achieve an even coat.
  • Roll in one direction, then cross-roll: Apply the first coat by rolling in one direction, usually parallel to the longest wall. Then, cross-roll by going perpendicular to the first direction to avoid streaks.
  • Let each coat dry. This is the kind of project you don't want to rush, so let your layers dry before applying another coat. The paint can should say drying times for the best finish!

Mouldings + Wood

Anthropologie

Anthropologie Delphine Rattan Chandelier

If your ceiling needs a little love, add a ceiling ring and a statement chandelier and you have a refreshing new look. Medallions are also surprisingly affordable for an elegant look.

Wayfair

Ashford Smooth Panel Moulding Kit

This highly rated moulding looks great on the wall or the fifth wall.

Wayfair

Wood Ceiling Beams

Wood beams create a rustic look and give cozy cabin vibes!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more decor inspiration!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Listen – we love ketchup, mayo, mustard, and all your other favorite condiments– by no means are we suggesting that mayo doesn’t have a place in BLTs and potato salad recipes. But, if you haven’t tried aioli — a popular dipping sauce with Mediterranean origins — you’re seriously missing out.

Aioli recipes are traditionally made with garlic, olive oil, and sometimes eggs (the combination of which is, of course, mayonnaise), but modern iterations also throw in lemon juice, garlic, and a whole plethora of other delicious herbs and spices. Here are 25 of our favorite aioli recipes, but be warned: once you dip your French fries in aioli, you’ll never go back.

Vanilla and Bean

Jalapeño Aioli

Let's start things off with a little spice, shall we? This zesty, zingy aioli gets infused with jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice to form the most delicious flavor.

Cooking With Curls

Super Easy Garlic Aioli

Let’s start off with the most mainstream, common version of aioli you’re likely to find. This easy-to-make recipe contains only five ingredients: mayo, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Like all aioli creations, this sauce is perfect for adding to sandwiches and burgers, and will also take your fries to a *whole* new level.

Goodie Godmother

Cilantro Lime Aioli

Aioli recipes are *delish* on a quesadilla or another Mexican-inspired meal. The flavors of cilantro and lime pair with all kinds of flavorful (and spicy) foods.

The Iron You

Rosemary Aioli

Paired here with meatballs, rosemary aioli is a bit more herbaceous. The flavors of rosemary go well with meats. We also recommend serving this sauce on the sandwich portion of a hearty soup-and-sammie meal.

Hello Little Home

Pesto Aioli

Use some store-bought or homemade pesto to mix into thick mayo, and you have yourself an exceptional (and easy!) aioli recipe.

Vikalinka

Truffle Aioli

One bite of this rich aioli recipe, and you'll be hooked. It's especially tasty alongside some fries!

Feel Good Foodie

Basic Homemade Aioli

This pick is as straightforward as aioli gets. If you're looking to hone your kitchen craft with more homemade dips and sauces, this aioli recipe is a great place to start.

The Suburban Soapbox

Roasted Garlic Aioli

Here’s another crowd-pleasing garlic aioli recipe for you. Pro tip: roast the garlic by cutting it in half, placing the middle side down on a piece of foil, drizzling with olive oil, and roasting for about 30 minutes. You’ll unlock a super-rich flavor that you just can’t get with raw garlic.

The Best Aioli Recipes

The Wimpy Vegetarian

Roasted Red Pepper Aioli

Looking for something a little... tangier? This roasted red pepper aioli will definitely do the trick. It combines the flavors of traditional aioli and red peppers with mustard, lemon juice, and sun-dried tomatoes for a condiment with kick!

The Edgy Veg

Vegan Caper Aioli

Aioli recipes can be healthy — just ask this vegan caper aoil mixture. Salty capers meet mellowed-out mayo in this plant-based recipe.

The Minimalist Baker

5-Ingredient Chipotle Aioli

This baby is spicy – and it also happens to be totally vegan. The “mayo” is made from soaked and blended cashews, while the flavor itself comes from fresh chipotle peppers.

A Spicy Perspective

Magic Aioli Sauce

You'll just have to trust us on this one – this aioli recipe holds pure magic. It's dreamy and bright, meaning it's the perfect pair to hefty, salty potato wedges and the like. Each dip will leave you wanting more and more!

Takes Two Eggs

Gochujang Aioli

Gochujang, a spicy Korean chili and soybean paste, gets the aioli treatment, resulting in a spectacularly spicy spread that can be used across dishes from sandwiches to loaded fries. All we can say is bring on all the spicy aioli recipes!

Fountain Avenue Kitchen

Smoked Paprika Aioli

When shopping for paprika, go for a spice labeled “smoked paprika” or “sweet paprika.” Plain-old paprika tends to be a lot less flavorful. In the case of this pick, though, you’ll combine smoked paprika with a bit of cumin to achieve a rich, spicy flavor in your aioli recipe.

Joyful Healthy Eats

Chipotle Lime Aioli

We’ve already covered aioli with lime and aioli with chipotle peppers — but this mouthwatering recipe combines the two. Bonus points for serving these with healthy and delicious sweet potato fries!

The Real Food Dietitians

Dijon-Thyme Aioli

This rich aioli is a sweet potato's BFF.

Savor The Best

Lemon-Dill Aioli Sauce

Not so much into the peppery, spicy sauces? Keep things light and fresh with this lemon and dill-flavored creation. When prepping this aioli, be sure to bring your egg yolks to room temperature, or you may have some trouble getting them to mix with the rest of the sauce.

Healthy Green Kitchen

Vegan Egg-Free Aioli

Here’s another one for the plant-based eaters out there. The secret ingredient in this recipe is aquafaba... that is, chickpea water. You can store this mixture for up to seven days in a covered container, so it’s great for making ahead (meal prep FTW!) and taking to work.

More Delicious Aioli Recipes

The Faux Martha

Chimichurri Aioli

Chimichurri is often slathered on meats, and this aioli is just as – if not more – versatile. It shares a number of ingredients with traditional chimichurri sauce — a few of the stand-outs are cilantro, onion, lime juice, and jalapeño!

Barley & Sage

Spicy Lemon Aioli

For a dip with more kick, this spicy lemon aioli strikes the ideal balance between tangy and zesty.

Half Baked Harvest

Roasted Garlic Saffron Aioli

Saffron brings a muted, yet deep flavor to this blend that was crafted to pair with feta fries. It's one of the tastiest aioli recipes we've had!

Homemade Interest

Easy Lemon Aioli

When we say this recipe is easy, that’s kind of an understatement. There are literally two steps: whisk everything together, then allow it to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. It’s *that* simple.

Pink Owl Kitchen

Creole Aioli

All the best parts of creole cookin' falvor are included in this aioli. Make sure you've got a lot of spices on your hands, or else this spicy pick won't quite hit the same.

The Skinny Fork

Skinny Sriracha Aioli

What makes this Sriracha-infused aioli skinny, exactly? Instead of regular mayonnaise, you’ll sub in light mayo and Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, protein-packed alternative.

Cafe Delites

Garlic Avocado Aioli

All those classic garlic aioli recipes we’ve shared above are fabulous, but adding some avocado can be a *total* game-changer. With this recipe, you’ll whip some fresh avo right into the mixture, adding creamy texture and stellar flavor.

Dad With A Pan

Lemon Parsley Aioli

This lemon-parsley combo is decidedly British-inspired and perfect for dipping. It showcases the flavors of mayo, parsley, lemon, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Bonus points for serving it with fried blue cheese olives, as shown here.

Veggie And The Beast

Vegan Roasted Red Pepper Aioli

If you’re interested in a red pepper flavor, but want to steer clear of animal products (or dairy in general), try this vegan version. You’ll sub in cashews (processed with water, of course) for mayo, keeping it dairy-free and super healthy.

Self Proclaimed Foodie

Basil Garlic Aioli

If you’re a big pesto fan, you’ll adore this basil-garlic sauce. In addition to being a perfect addition to French fries, it would also go great on any kind of Italian-inspired sammie, such as an eggplant Parm or meatball sub. (via Self Proclaimed Foodie)

Ruled.Me

Roasted Garlic Chipotle Aioli

See those eggs in the background? That’s because this recipe has you making mayo from scratch. It doesn’t get more wholesome than that. You’ll bring the eggs to room temperature before processing them with additional yolks, lemon juice, and garlic, and adding olive oil toward the end of the process.

Tasty Kitchen

Super Garlicky Aioli

We thought we’d round off our list with another classic iteration of aioli. This garlic-infused version is perfect for all your aioli needs, but we *especially* love it with French fries and a glass of white wine. Cheers!

Follow us on Pinterest, and don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more creative aioli recipes and food inspo!

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser. This article originally appeared in 2017 as part of our Hit Refresh series.