Headbands are back in trend – here are 10 different ways to wear them

Take one look at all the fashion shows and Instagram posts of curated street styles, and you’ll notice a classic accessory omnipresent throughout the past couple of years.

What appears to be looming over the heads of the industry’s most stylish (figuratively and literally) may seem like a forgotten hair tool from our 10-year-old self, but they have resurfaced as one of the most coveted styling accessories on runways and celebrities. This piece is none other than a headband.

From big padded headbands in late 2019 to silk headscarves in early 2021, this headband craze does appear to be slowing down anytime soon. Be it padded, bedazzled, velvet or silk, headbands come in a plethora of styles to wear as a statement accessory or to simply tame our stubborn strands.

We’ve rounded up some of the best takes on this trend to present to you 10 different ways you can rock them on your next night out.

Skinny headbands

Starting off our list, we have 2021’s latest trend — skinny, thin headbands! Adorned by celebrities like Addison Rae, Cara Delevigne, and Lupita Nyong’o, this sleeker and more subtle silhouette looks so simple yet chic and matches with just about any outfit you can think of.

What’s more, they complement a wide range of hairstyles and types, and usually come with teeth that help to keep those flyaways away.

Medium headbands

With a slightly thicker width, medium headbands also make a great statement while not giving you a big headache. It-girls Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have been sporting them in mostly monotone colours, securing it over a middle part or dragging the entire fringe back and teasing the back of their hair.

If it looks too put-together for you, you can bring out two locks of hair at the front for a more laidback look.

Jersey headbands

Jersey headbands or wide headbands instantaneously up one’s cool-girl factor when worn on. Not only do they look effortlessly stylish, but they’re also extremely comfortable to wear since most of them are made of jersey or other stretchy material.

Especially loved by top model Bella Hadid, you can pair these wider headbands with athleisure wear like bike shorts or dress them up with an oversized blazer.

Comb headbands

We know your first reaction to this is probably a look of disdain. But, this nostalgic zig-zag headband is back on the runways. Other than the fact that this headband practically holds all your hair back from your face, it is also a fashionable accessory that can be worn with many hairstyles.

Try sleeking your hair back into a low ponytail or bun and finish off with a little hair gel for a sleek, wet look.

Silk headscarves

What has probably been all the rage at the start of this year, headscarves are also another way to fashionably style your hair (and cover those greasy roots). Seen on stars like Kylie Jenner and Dua Lipa, this silk accessory has taken the fashion world by storm – and there’s even a TikTok trend dedicated to it.

There are countless ways to tie up your hair with this, but our favourites are probably tying it as a bandana under your hair or as a cap by knotting it on top of your strands.

Padded headbands

Undoubtedly the chief headband trend of 2019 and 2020, padded headbands are definitely a statement accessory. From silk to velvet, and even embellished, these headbands help to push your hairline slightly back while making your outfit look extra luxurious.

Since they already have so much volume, wear this with simple straight hair or tie your hair back into a low ponytail. Shop some of our favourite styles below!

Bandana

Similar to the headscarf, the bandana requires one to tie your hair up but with a simpler handkerchief. Fold it into a long rectangle and tie the ends under your head such that it looks like a headband. This looks best when your hair is tied into a bun.

Wrap headband

Wrap headbands are a fun way to spruce up any summer outfit as it usually comes in an eclectic print. Take a look at Chrissy Teigen for your wrap headband inspiration! The model usually keeps it very casual, styling it with her hair up and pairing it with a basic blue denim jacket.

Check out some of our favourite styles below!

Bow headband

If you want to make your outfit look more feminine, try putting on a bow headband! Pair it with a monochromatic outfit to let it stand out. We recommend that you let your hair down when donning this accessory.

Embellished headband

Last but not least, if you’re a girl that likes her bling, why not put on some embellished headbands to jazz up your look? From pearls to jewels to flowers, the options are limitless. If you want, you can layer up your look with a few headbands or simply style it with a low ponytail.

Take a look at some of our most stylish picks!