How to Wear a Headband

I’m always looking for easy ways to style my hair that aren’t just a ponytail or down, and with kids, having my hair out of my face is often exactly what I need and nothing can do the job better while looking amazing, but a headband. They’re functional, while also being stylish—they can add color, texture and interest to your look, and with fall on the way, I’m excited to add more of these into my daily wardrobe!

I’ve recently brought these back into my regular rotation because of how easy they are to wear. Also, I recently re-watched Gossip Girl and Blair Waldorf quickly reminded me how fun and feminine this accessory can be.

They work whether you have short, medium, or long hair, there are countless ways to wear a headband to fit your personal style and whatever you’re wearing.

From knotted turban headbands, padded headbands to delicate jeweled headbands for special occasions, there’s something for everyone and every occasion—now, let me show you how to wear a headband several different ways!

How To Wear a Headband

Headband Hairstyles

Headband With A Bun

Wearing a headband with a bun is one of my favorite styles. It’s also a great way to stretch your hair an extra day when it’s starting to not look quite as fresh (a little dry shampoo doesn’t hurt either!). I love doing a low messy bun, pulling a few hairs into the front and adding a headband to add something extra to my look.

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You could also do a high bun and add a thinner headband if that’s more your style. I love this look for anyone with bangs too. It’s soft and feminine.

You can wear a headband with a bun for casual days like I mentioned above, or for formal events. A messy undone bun with a dainty headband can look so beautiful for weddings or fancy parties, while a chunky turban-style headband with a knotted bun is perfect for everyday wear.

Headband with Hair Down

One of the most obvious ways to wear a headband is with your hair down. But, there’s different ways to style your hair here for different looks.

You have the option to pull back all of your hair behind the headband for a sleek and polished look. Alternatively, you can leave some light, wispy hairs in front of the headband to create a softer and more undone look.

Style your hair straight, wavy, curly or natural and pair with different styles of headbands for totally different looks. I have naturally wavy hair and loving pulling all my hair behind a headband for an easy hair down look that keeps it out of my face.

Headband with a Ponytail or Braid

One more fun way to wear your hair with a headband is a simple ponytail or braid. You can wear a high ponytail that’s slicked back, or a low ponytail. Try a French braid or a regular basic braid too.

First, you’ll style your hair in either a ponytail or braid. Then add the headband in your hair and adjust to your liking. You can wear a thick puffy one for a statement look, or something simple that will keep your hair out of your face.

Stick with neutrals or add a pop of color and whimsy with different style. If you want, you can easily pull out some face-framing pieces or bangs for a softer look.

Best Headband Styles to Try

There is a huge selection of headbands out there to try, but for style purposes, there’s a few that I want to call out as ones to try. Save your elastic headbands for workouts, and opt for any of these for daily wear or special events.

Casual Headbands

When I think of a casual, simple headband, I think of a more traditional headband— something that’s either soft and comfortable, like velvet or fabric, or those thin acrylic ones that help keep your hair in place. Casual headbands tend to be thinner in width, making them easy to throw on for everyday wear.

Velvet is great for cooler months because it adds warmth and a cozy texture to any outfit. I love a good neutral or jewel-toned one for a nice pop of color.

Acrylic headbands are great for daily wear and adding a little something extra to your outfit. These wavy styles are fun, aren’t they?

Wear them with sweaters, t-shirts, tanks, jeans, dresses and more Essentially anything you would wear on a normal day!!

Turban, Knotted & Braided Headbands

Turban headbands or knotted headbands have made a huge comeback lately and I love seeing them—the styles are so unique! I love how they completely make the outfit. The braided velvet padded headbands are so fun for winter and fall because they add so much texture to your look, and velvet is so cozy. These wide headbands come in some really fun bold colors, prints and embellishments that can add something so special and unique to your look.

In fall and winter, I tend to wear more neutral, solid colors and having a fun headband can totally make your outfit!

You can keep the rest of your outfit simple to let your headband stand out, or if you’re wearing something colorful, pick one color from your look and wear a headband in that color for a memorable fun outfit.

For the rest of your look, keep your outfit simple and let the headband stand out.

With these statement headbands, I wouldn’t go crazy on your hairstyle. Stick with your hair down in loose waves or straight, a sleek ponytail, or a simple messy bun. Since some of these have quite a lot going on, I’d recommend sticking with minimal jewelry to balance out the boldness of the headband. This style of headband is great for lots of occasions, daily wear, work, casual meet-ups, a night out and more!

Dressy Headbands

Lastly, dressy headbands are a great accessory to elevate your outfit and add a touch of elegance. I love a rhinestone headband these for a fancy wedding, gala or holiday party.

There are many styles to choose from, such as embellished, beaded, or pearl-detailed headbands that can give a regal and crown-like appearance. They almost look like a piece of jewelry!

Pair it with chic dress, or for the holidays, try pairing it with a fun print that’s bold and memorable.

Headbands are a versatile and fun accessory that can make a statement and enhance your overall outfit and infuse a little more personality. There are so many types of headbands, and whether you have short hair or long hair, they’ll work for you. It’s just a matter of playing around with different styles to see what fits your personal style best. With these style tips, you should now feel comfortable experimenting with how to wear a headband in different ways—which style is your favorite?

BTW, DIY hair oil for growth, and my go-to wavy hair routine.