If it feels like it’s the summer of nostalgia when it comes to fashion and beauty trends, that’s because… it is. While there are some Y2K trends that we’re pretty sure are still secure in the 2000s vault (we could do without trying to bump up our hair into a Snooki-esque pouf for a little longer), other throwback trends are just pretty enough to receive a fresh spin.
Like the butterfly clips we saw everywhere in the spring, the latest summer 2022 hair trend — hair gems — checks all our boxes: it’s fun, it’s easy to do and it works on many different hair types, textures and lengths.
See also: The ’90s frosted eyeshadow makeup trend is back and better than ever.
What are hair gems and when can you wear them?
Just as the name suggests, the hair gem trend is all about adding a little sparkle and embellishment to your hairstyle.
As Florence Pugh showcased at the BAFTAs a few months back, hair gems can be a subtle way to add a delicate pop of shimmer to an otherwise sleek hairstyle — making them an ideal way to level-up special occasion aesthetics (think: summer party and wedding-guest looks). The nice thing about hair gems? You can add as few or as many as you like — so you can channel Florence with a whisper of shimmer, or go all out for a statement-making look (perfect for festival season).
Related: 10 indie, hippie music festival outfits to wear this summer.
How can you get the ‘bedazzled’ hair look?
There are a few easy ways to get the hair gem look — let’s look at two.
Pin it
If you’re going for an updo (hair gems would look great in a modern Pam Anderson-inspired “Pammy updo,” for example), adding rhinestone-topped pins is a simple and quick way to get a glam style.
40-Pack White Crystal Rhinestone Hair Pins, Amazon, $15.
Stick it
For times when pinning gems won’t work (for example, if you want to wear your hair down), you can use a tool to get the job done. A hair bedazzling tool isn’t just for kids — it makes it simple to “stamp” your hair with stick-on hair gems.
Bling Bling Hair Bedazzler Kit with 180 Hair Gems, Amazon, $28.
Whichever method you choose, enjoy those throwback vibes.
