7 ’90s Hair Accessories to Channel Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy

You’re likely no stranger to the renewed fascination with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy as FX’s Love Story continues to send viewers straight into binge mode. But beyond late-night watch sessions, the series has reignited interest in ‘90s beauty staples—hair accessories very much included. Fortunately, today’s versions feel less like a nostalgic novelty and more like modern (yet timeless) keepsakes.

True to form, Bessette-Kennedy’s approach was minimalist. Archival photos show her wearing a sleek tortoiseshell headband, widely believed to have been purchased at Greenwich Village apothecary C.O. Bigelow, located about a mile north of the apartment she shared with her husband, John F. Kennedy Jr. The polished acetate style feels quintessentially ’90s—and unsurprisingly, it’s back in rotation (and yes, still available at the boutique).

Of course, tortoiseshell headbands were just one of many popular ’90s hair accessories, both for Bessette-Kennedy and the decade at large. The era embraced designs that were equal parts functional and chic, such as claw clips, banana clips and scrunchies that kept hair off the face without sacrificing style. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best ’90s-inspired styles to add back into rotation.

1 / 7

The tortoiseshell headband was arguably one of Bessette-Kennedy’s most recognizable hair accessories. It doesn’t get much closer to the original than this version from C.O. Bigelow in Greenwich Village—the still-operating apothecary she was known to frequent in the ’90s, now a destination for beauty devotees and Love Story bingers alike.

2 / 7

While some shoppers admit they’ve avoided this style of headband since its ’90s heyday because of its reputation for being painfully tight, this updated version feels entirely different. The design is chic and minimalist, instantly making your hair look styled even if slipping it on was the only effort involved.

3 / 7

The jersey headband has been trending for some time among celebrities and everyday wearers alike, so it may already be in your rotation. Still, it’s quintessentially ’90s—and a nod to Bessette-Kennedy’s effortless aesthetic. You can’t go wrong with a classic Scunci set, which breaks down to just $1 per headband in a five-pack of neutral hues.

scünci No Damage Stretch Fabric Headbands

4 / 7

A tortoiseshell half-moon ponytail holder is about as ’90s as it gets. It’s essentially a styling shortcut, transforming a basic ponytail into something that looks considered and cool in seconds.

5 / 7

These claw clips look like something you could’ve picked up in the ’90s, thanks to their open-frame design and monochrome hues.

6 / 7

This hair clip earned its cult status because it actually holds a full head of hair, something flimsier ’90s versions rarely pulled off. It’s a modern upgrade on the classic claw: chic, sturdy and available in a lineup of fun colors and patterns.

Emi Jay Big Effing Clip® Hair Claw in Buttercream

7 / 7

This chignon pin feels straight out of a Bessette-Kennedy moodboard. It slides into a low twist or undone bun with that effortless, barely-there finish she made famous in the ’90s. Clean lines, no fuss, maximum impact.