simple details

Princess Charlotte's favorite hair accessories parents can copy for back to school


From velvet bows to pearl clips. See how parents can recreate these timeless royal children's hairstyles


© Getty Images
Shirley GomezSenior Writer
AUGUST 5, 2026 11:06 AM EDT

Princess Charlotte has become a style inspiration long before her teenage years, but it isn't flashy fashion that's catching attention. Instead, it's her timeless collection of classic hair accessories. From elegant Princess Charlotte hair bows to polished ribbons, her hairstyles prove that simple details never go out of style.

Parents looking for age-appropriate ways to elevate everyday hairstyles can easily recreate the young royal's signature look. The best part? Most of these accessories are affordable, versatile, and suitable for school, special occasions, or family photos.

Princess Charlotte shares rare moment with Prince Edward that reveals their special bond© Karwai Tang
Discover Princess Charlotte's favorite hair accessories, from velvet bows to pearl clips. See how parents can recreate these timeless royal children's hairstyles.

Interest in Charlotte's signature bows has grown again following her recent public appearances, where she once again paired her favorite half-up hairstyle with a statement ribbon bow. 

Princess Charlotte's Hair Accessories Stand Out

Unlike trendy clips covered in glitter or oversized embellishments, Princess Charlotte's accessories follow a classic formula. They complement her hairstyle rather than overpower it.

Princess Charlotte charmed spectators in a vibrant blue dress and white ballet flats, a look that echoed one of her mother's past Wimbledon outfits.© WireImage
Media Image© Getty Images

Her looks typically feature soft, brushed hair, half-up hairstyles, neatly secured ponytails, braids and neutral-colored accessories.

Velvet Bows Add Instant Elegance

Among all of Princess Charlotte accessories, velvet bows remain one of the easiest to copy.

These bows work beautifully during autumn and winter, pairing effortlessly with coats, dresses, and holiday outfits. Deep navy, burgundy, forest green, and classic black all create a sophisticated finish without looking too formal.


Among all of Princess Charlotte accessories, velvet bows remain one of the easiest to copy.© Getty Images
Among all of Princess Charlotte accessories, velvet bows remain one of the easiest to copy.

Parents can attach velvet bows to ponytails, half-up styles, or even low braids for an instantly polished appearance.

Media Image© WireImage
Media Image© WireImage
Media Image© Samir Hussein/WireImage

Grosgrain Ribbons Never Go Out of Style

Another hallmark of Princess Charlotte's look is the classic grosgrain ribbon.

Unlike satin, grosgrain ribbons hold their shape well, making them ideal for active children. They also create crisp bows that stay neat throughout the day.

Media Image© Getty Images
Media Image© Getty Images

Charlotte frequently wears ribbons tied around a half-up hairstyle, a look that has become one of her signatures at official royal events.

Her oversized white ribbon at the 2026 Trooping the Colour celebration drew particular attention and reinforced the accessory as one of her defining style choices. For parents, grosgrain ribbons offer an inexpensive way to dress up simple hairstyles without needing elaborate styling techniques.

 Princess Charlotte of Wales during Trooping The Colour on June 13, 2026 in London, England.© WireImage
Princess Charlotte of Wales during Trooping The Colour on June 13, 2026 in London, England.

Pearl Clips Offer a Special Occasion Upgrade

While bows receive the most attention, pearl hair clips are another accessory that captures the same elegant spirit.

Small pearl barrettes can secure side sections of hair while adding a refined touch perfect for weddings, birthday parties, family portraits, or holiday celebrations.

Most of these accessories are affordable, versatile, and suitable for school, special occasions, or family photos.© GC Images
Most of these accessories are affordable, versatile, and suitable for school, special occasions, or family photos.

Rather than covering the hair with multiple clips, Charlotte-inspired styling works best with just one understated accessory. The goal is polished simplicity.

Classic Elastics Are the Everyday Essential

One of the easiest details to overlook is the humble hair elastic.

Princess Charlotte's hairstyles rarely feature brightly colored bands or novelty scrunchies. Instead, neutral elastics disappear into the hairstyle, allowing the ribbon or bow to become the focal point.

Princess Charlotte's hairstyles rarely feature brightly colored bands or novelty scrunchies.© Getty Images
Princess Charlotte's hairstyles rarely feature brightly colored bands or novelty scrunchies.

Parents can recreate this look by choosing nude, navy, brown, white and soft pastel elastics.

These create a cleaner finish and help hairstyles look more put together.

How to Recreate Princess Charlotte Hair Bows

Creating Charlotte's signature hairstyle takes only a few minutes.

Start by brushing the hair until smooth. Gather the top section into a half-up ponytail and secure it with a neutral elastic. Finish by attaching a velvet bow or tying a grosgrain ribbon around the elastic.

Creating Charlotte's signature hairstyle takes only a few minutes.© Samir Hussein/WireImage
Creating Charlotte's signature hairstyle takes only a few minutes.

For more formal occasions, gently curl the ends or create loose waves before adding the bow.

Braids also pair beautifully with ribbons. A simple three-strand braid finished with a classic bow delivers the same timeless royal aesthetic.