One of the most difficult aspects in choosing accessories is sizing. Most of us know that one size rarely fits all, and that different lengths are often necessary to achieve different hair styles. Since everyone's hair is different in terms of length and type, what works well for some does not for others. Here it becomes the designer's job to consider a number of variables in both the item's design as well as the unique characteristics of it's material. Once a standard is established, we have a correct fit when we achieve comfort, effective hold, and a balanced appearance.

Most of my hair sticks and forks offer both *overall* and *functional* length in their description. This allows you to estimate how much of the item will show at either end. The overall length includes any ornamentation, while the functional length refers to the unseen part of the accessory that actually holds your hair. Some items, such as plain wood hair sticks, are measured in overall length only since they are typically worn according to one's preference.

The Half Inch Rule.

Selecting the correct length is simply a matter of knowing the dimensions of each of your favorite styles. Let's take the average coiled bun as an example. Gather and twist hair into a comfortable coil, and have someone measure the distance from the outer edges at the points where the accessory will enter and exit.  that's your *baseline* to use when choosing functional length. if this measurement were 4", you might choose a 4.5" functional length accessory, as this would allow an extra 1/2" to extend from the end, while the overall length in comparison would give you an idea of the height of any added adornment. If you plan to grow your hair out longer, bear in mind that mass increases with length, so you'll eventually outgrow the accessory. In this case you might choose a 5" functional length so that the accessory will still work when you reach your desired length, but won't appear out of scale for your current needs. Forks work the same way, but functional length is often referred to as prong length which should also extend about 1/2"  beyond your current or projected baseline.

Hair slides, barrettes and bun holders are sized in a similar way - they take into account the ouside measurement of the style they're used for. Double the figure for a flip up pony, or divide in half for a half up style. This method is fairly accurate for most everyone, since it accounts for variances in hair texture.