As much fun as it is to have a headcovering or hair accessory to go with every outfit, not that many of us have unlimited funds to blow on every cute hat or headband we see.  And for someone who is just starting out with covering her hair, the possibilities can be overwhelming.  So let’s talk about what constitutes your basic stash; what are the essential pieces that no hair-coverer can get by without?

The most obvious thing is your basic black, whether it be a tichel, pretied bandana, snood, beret, or headband.  As big an advocate as I am of wearing color (lots of it and bright!), black does in fact go with just about anything.  It can be more casual or more formal, depending on what you wear with it.  And you can always dress it up with a flower pin or a pretty ribbon if you’re bored.

After black, take a look at your wardrobe and see what other basic colors you wear most often: brown, khaki, navy, gray, white, or cream.    Get another basic item, like those listed above, but a little bit different, and in that next basic color; try a cute brown cap, or a white lace headband.

Next, make sure you have something for fancier occasions, and something for chilling out on the weekend.  For the former, look for an elegant hat or a floral tichel; for the latter, try a cute bandana, or a comfy headband.  Try to find a fun color that goes with two or more of your typical clothing choices; think of what you wear most often before you try to match that random red suede skirt that’s hiding in the back of your closet.  If you wear a lot of black or brown, finding a colorful accessory that you love should be easy because chances are, your favorite shade of purple/teal/orange will match.

Finally, make sure your seasons are covered.  That means a light straw hat, thin cotton tichel, or bandana for summer, and a wool beret, knit headband, or pashmina for winter.  Or something along those lines!

Let’s not forget some important accessories.  Depending on how long your hair is, and how much of it you plan to cover with what style, you may need any of the following.  Fortunately, they’re not expensive or hard to come by!

• Ponytail holders
• Snap clips
• Bobby pins

What else do you consider to be an absolute essential?