Last Updated on September 21, 2023
How do you wear a headband like Gossip Girl’s Blair Waldorf or Clueless’ Cher Horowitz? Look no further. If you think that this head accessory is hard to pull off without looking like a 5-year-old kid, think again. There’s a knack to it, but headbands can look great at any age – promise. There are a few different ways to style the accessory, so it really can transform your hair from both a style perspective, but also when you need to cover up grown-out roots or the fact you’ve missed hair wash day.
Fashion girls and celebrities have long been repping these chic hair accessories everywhere from the streets to the red carpet, from fashion royalty Alexa Chung to actual royalty Kate Middleton. This sweet hair accessory isn’t just for school – it’s evolved to become as wearable as jewellery. Just ask designers like Prada, Gucci and Tori Burch, all of which have released their own iterations in recent years.
So here, I’m sharing how to wear yours. Next, read Your Complete Guide to the Different Types of Ear Piercings or the Best Dupes For Loewe’s Iconic Puzzle Bag.
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Is wearing a headband trendy?
Although the headband is considered a classic piece, they have definitely become a trend in recent years. Amanda Gorman kicked things off in 2021, when she wore a red Prada headband to Joe Biden’s inauguration. She continues to wear the accessory today, so much so that it’s become synyonymous with the poet. The Internet similarly went crazy when Bella Hadid decided to add the hair piece to her fashion arsenal and was spotted wearing a variety of chic styles. Alexa Demie’s character Maddy also wore headbands in in HBO’s Euphoria in a nod to Y2K fashion, which as we know is huge right now. Another rising trend is the wide athletic style headband, as seen on Matilda Djerf.
How to wear a headband
There are several ways to wear the accessory and a huge variety of styles and materials to choose from. Here are some foolproof ways to wear it.
The Classic
Think of Kate Middleton in 2022, when she was often photographed with her signature accessory, a classic padded headband. To get her look, one easy way is to place the head piece at the start at your hairline and push it back. You can also curl or straighten the ends of your hair, depending on your taste or outfit.
Short Hair + Headband Combo
Spice up your hairstyle with a headband. Wear an embellished or bright-coloured head accessory to keep your short locks in place.
The Middle Part
If you want to look polished without the hassle of fixing your hair then this one is for you. Best paired with a chunky or braided headband, part your hair in the middle and place it toward the back of your head. You can choose between letting your hair down or tying it in a bun or ponytail for a contemporary look.
More Volume
Think of Brigitte Bardot and her iconic 1960s hairstyle. Get the look with a twist by bringing back the sexy, voluminous hair and adding a thin headband to keep hair out of your face.
Sporty Look
A huge trend these days among Gen Zs is the sporty headband. This stretchy band sits on top of your hairline, basically covering it. You can finish off the look by tying your hair into a bun or ponytail, or keep your tresses flowing.
How do you wear a headband without it hurting?
If there are any cons to wearing a headband, it’s that it can sometimes make your head hurt. Make sure you choose the right headband size for your head and avoid those with teeth or spikes, which can dig in and cause discomfort.
