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A headband used to be the sort of thing you picked up at a drugstore checkout. Jennifer Behr helped change that, turning hair accessories into a genuine fashion category, with silk-padded headbands, crystal-embellished pieces, and bridal headpieces made by hand in New York City. Nearly two decades on, the brand is a go-to for people who want a hair accessory that feels special. Here’s a full, honest breakdown of what Jennifer Behr offers, what you’re paying for, and whether it’s worth it.
What Is Jennifer Behr?
Jennifer Behr is an American luxury hair accessories brand founded in 2005 by designer Jennifer Behr and based in Brooklyn, New York. Behr studied sculpture and art history at Washington University, worked briefly in hatmaking, and moved to New York City in 1999 intending to work in fashion. She originally thought she’d design bags, but she fell in love with hair accessories instead and saw an untapped market for luxury versions of them. She launched her namesake line in 2005, and early support from retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman and Henri Bendel helped put it on the map.
The brand has grown into what it describes as one of New York’s foremost ateliers for headpieces, creating elaborate and custom designs for fashion shoots and events, in addition to its everyday collections. In spring 2017, it expanded into jewelry, launching earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, and it has since developed a bridal range. Despite its high profile, it remains a relatively small business, with a team of around 20 as of 2024, and the pieces are handcrafted in New York City.
What Makes Jennifer Behr Different?
- Handcrafted in New York City — the brand says all of its pieces are made by hand in New York, which sets it apart from the mass-produced hair accessories that dominate the market
- A sculptor’s approach to design — Behr’s art background shows in the shapes and construction of her headbands, which are designed to be both striking and comfortable
- Comfort-focused fit — the brand says its headbands are wear-tested to be comfortable all day, with details like silk exteriors and grosgrain linings meant to be gentle on hair
- A romantic, vintage-inspired aesthetic — the designs lean into pearls, crystals, silk, ribbons, and bows, drawing on centuries-old headpiece traditions with a modern twist
- A broad celebrity following — the brand has dressed numerous well-known figures over the years, helping drive its reputation as a fashion-world favorite
- Collaborations — it has also released limited collaborations, such as a capsule with the vintage store New York Vintage
What Does Jennifer Behr Sell?
Headbands
The brand’s signature category, including classic padded silk satin headbands in a range of colors, plus embellished styles with crystals, pearls, and embroidery.
Barrettes, Clips, and Bows
Hair clips, jaw clips, barrettes, and bow-style accessories in materials like silk, pearls, and metal.
Hats and Headpieces
Vintage-inspired hats and decorative hair jewelry for special occasions.
Bridal
Veils, headpieces, and other adornments designed for weddings.
Earrings and Jewelry
Earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, which the brand began offering in 2017, designed to complement its hair accessories.
Is Jennifer Behr Good Quality?
Jennifer Behr’s reputation rests on craftsmanship and materials, and the pieces are generally positioned as investment accessories rather than throwaway items. The brand uses materials such as silk, crystals, and pearls, and describes its classic padded headband as lined for comfort and made to be worn for hours. Handmade construction and a small production scale usually mean more careful finishing than fast-fashion alternatives, though specific durability will depend on how you use and store each piece.
It’s also worth being realistic about the price. These are luxury accessories, with headbands and clips typically priced well above mass-market versions. For example, one retailer listed a gathered silk headband at $198, with prices going higher for heavily embellished and bridal pieces. Check the current price and details at the retailer you’re buying from. If you only wear hair accessories occasionally, or just want a basic padded headband, a less expensive option may be a better fit. If you want a standout piece that you’ll wear often, or a special accessory for an event or wedding, the higher price may be easier to justify.
How to Care for Luxury Hair Accessories
Delicate materials like silk, pearls, and crystals last longer with a little care:
- Store them flat or in a pouch to avoid crushing the shape and tangling embellishments
- Keep them away from water and sweat where possible, since silk can mark
- Avoid hairspray, perfume, and makeup contact with the fabric
- Handle embellished pieces gently when putting them on and removing them
- Check the care instructions that come with each piece
Fit and Comfort Tips
Because a headband sits against your head for hours, fit matters. If you find headbands uncomfortable, look for a padded design, check the product description for details on width and fit, and consider how thick or fine your hair is. Padded headbands can feel snug for some people, and wider styles may sit differently than slim ones. If you’re unsure, check the retailer’s return policy before buying.
How Does Jennifer Behr Compare to Other Hair Accessory Brands?
| Feature | Jennifer Behr | Typical Mass-Market Hair Accessory Brand |
|---|---|---|
| Founded | 2005, New York | Varies |
| Production | Handcrafted in New York City | Usually mass-produced overseas |
| Materials | Silk, crystals, pearls | Often synthetic |
| Positioning | Luxury | Budget to mid-range |
| Range | Headbands, clips, hats, bridal, jewelry | Usually hair accessories only |
| Scale | Small team (about 20 in 2024) | Often large-scale |
Tips for Buying Jennifer Behr
- Start with a classic padded headband if you’re new to the brand, since it’s one of its best-known styles
- Consider where you’ll wear it — everyday silk styles versus embellished pieces for events
- Check multiple retailers for pricing and availability, since the brand is sold on its own site and through department and specialty stores
- Read the materials and care details for each piece
- Look at the bridal collection early if you’re planning a wedding, since lead times and availability can vary
Final Verdict: Is Jennifer Behr Worth It?
Jennifer Behr built one of the best-known names in luxury hair accessories by treating the headband as a design object, not an afterthought, and by keeping its production small and handmade in New York City. The pieces are priced as luxury goods, so they’re best for people who value craftsmanship, materials, and a distinctive look. If you want a statement headband, a special occasion accessory, or a bridal piece, Jennifer Behr is well worth exploring. If you want an everyday basic at a low price, there are more affordable choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Jennifer Behr?
Jennifer Behr founded the brand in 2005. She studied sculpture and art history and moved to New York City in 1999 before launching her namesake line.
Where is Jennifer Behr made?
The brand says its pieces are handcrafted in New York City, and the company is based in Brooklyn.
What does Jennifer Behr sell?
Jennifer Behr sells headbands, hair clips, barrettes, bows, hats and headpieces, bridal adornments, and jewelry such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
When did Jennifer Behr launch jewelry?
The brand launched its jewelry line in spring 2017.
Is Jennifer Behr expensive?
Yes, it’s a luxury brand, with headbands typically priced at over $100 at retailers, and higher prices for embellished and bridal pieces. Check current prices before buying.
Where can I buy Jennifer Behr?
Jennifer Behr is sold on the brand’s own website and through department and specialty retailers.
