Hairbands are back in style, both on the runway and in our wardrobes. They’re more than just hair accessories. They elevate your look and protect your hair from dust, sweat, and other environmental elements. The best part? They come in various designs and work for every hair type. So if you’ve been searching for the right hairband hairstyles to ramp up your appearance, you’re in for a ride.
In this guide, we’ll give you a walkthrough on hairbands, including suitable coiffures to pair them with.
What are Hairbands?
Also called Alice bands, hairbands are semi-rigid, semi-circular bands that sit on top of the head from ear to ear. They’re used to hold hair neatly away from the face without the use of clips or ties. The name “Alice band” originates from the hair accessory worn by the protagonist Alice in Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland illustrations.
Hairbands are typically made from plastic or metal frames, then covered with plain or printed fabrics like satin, velvet, and cotton for comfort against the scalp. Unlike headbands, hairbands do not encircle the full head. They sit along the upper part, making them more practical for anyone who wants a structured appearance without elaborate hairstyling.
Common hairband styles include:
- Plain fabric hairbands: Great for a minimalist, polished look; suitable for office and everyday wear
- Embellished hairbands: Often featuring beads, bows, braids, or floral adornments for a feminine, elevated look
- Hairbands with prints and patterns: Polka dots, checkered, plaid, pinstripes, animal prints, and other playful textile patterns; ideal for casual or statement-making occasions.
- Velvet Alice bands: They have a classic, velvety finish perfect for formal and festive looks.
- Tortoiseshell or acetate hairbands: Often featuring a mottled brown, amber, and black pattern reminiscent of traditional tortoiseshell. They’re great for casual and smart-casual outfits.
Hairband Hairstyles to Recreate for a Chic Look
Hairbands offer an effortless polish that elevates your appearance without being overdressed. They are a cornerstone accessory for women who want to look put-together quickly. If you’re wondering which hairstyle works with them, here are your best bets:
Ponytail Hairband Hairstyles
Adorn a low or high ponytail with a hairband. Whether it’s an embellished, padded, or acetate, your ponytail will look better with this accessory.
Middle-Part Hairband Styles
Instead of placing your headband by pushing it back, part your hair down the middle, then place the piece over the crown of your head. Use edge control to ensure your hair remains laid down all day (or night) long.
Curly Updos
Curly hairstyles pair well with hairbands. Style your curls into a high bun with an elastic band or scrunchie. Then add your favorite hairband to it.
Messy Hairband Hairstyles
Wearing a messy coif? Elevate it with the simple addition of a hairband. It’ll keep the focus on your accessory while framing your face better.
Hairband Hairstyles with Tendrils
Pull out a few face-framing pieces for a queenly look, then add your hairband. Tendrils elevate any hairstyle, whether braids, curls, coils, or straight hair. Leave a few strands out, and you’ll look super stunning.
Braids with Hairbands
Hairbands complement cornrows, box braids, shuku, goddess braids, and other braided styles. Just add one for that extra dose of style, and you’ll steal the show.
Afro Hair with Hairbands
Allow your kinky hair to take the full glory, then accent it with a velvety or patterned hairband. The result will be a mane that has so much flair.
Slicked-Back Hairbands
Slick your hair down with your favorite hair gel, and add a pretty hairband to amplify your look. Slicked-back hairstyles are stunning, but when you pair them with a hair accessory, you become a masterpiece.
Short Haircuts with Hairband
Who said headbands don’t work for short haircuts? Bring on your pixie cut, buzz cut, bobs, and any feminine short hair you wanna rock—and the hairband will sit pretty like a crown or tiara.
Bun Hairband Hairstyles
A top knot bun is one minimalist hairdo that never fails to highlight your facial features. Add a bright-colored hairband to it, and you’ll love the resulting look.
Free-Flowing Hairstyles with Hairband
If your hair is long, let it flow free and loose while you pull on your hairband. For bonus points, keep the accessory in a bold or contrasting color so it pops out from your strands.
