It’s official—headband styles are trending. The accessory has made a comeback on both the runway and in our wardrobes. And the reason isn’t surprising; headbands are the easiest and perhaps most classic hair accessory. Whenever your hair looks lackluster, toss an accessory on, and you’ll immediately look more polished.

But it’s not just about wearing a headband. It’s about styling it with intention. Whether you’re heading to the office, getting ready for a night out, or simply trying to give your hairstyle a new look, there’s a headband styling technique that will transform your hair. Find them all below.

How to Style Headbands for a Classic Look

The headband is one hair accessory that can completely change how you feel about your hair and your entire outfit. Although it’s an example of preppy fashion, it comes in various styles—from textured headbands for colder months to bejeweled designs, sporty-chic and statement accents. And they’re made with different materials such as velvet, cotton, metal, plastic, beads, rhinestones, and faux pearls.

Ahead, we dive into various headband styles you should recreate ASAP:

Padded Headband Styles

Padded headbands bring some thickness to the mix. Though they’ve evolved over the years, the styling remains the same: start at your hairline and push it back.
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‘90s Headband Styles

This style brings to mind ’90s-supermodel vibes. All you need to recreate it is a thin black headband paired with a voluminous blowout. Even though it’s a blast from the past, it’s a timeless hairstyling technique.
Embellished Headband Styles

Ornate headbands are a great way to add sparkling accents to your hair. Pair them with longer or shorter hairstyles for a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Negative Space Headband

A negative-space headband is one thin enough to create space in between the band and your hair. It’s the perfect accompaniment for a chic hairstyle with a contrasting color.
Preppy Styles

If you grew up watching Gossip Girl, you must know Blair Waldorf’s signature headband look, which has become iconic. It’s effortlessly sophisticated and works with almost any outfit. Rock it to date nights, brunch with friends, preppy office environments, or any time you feel like channelling that Upper East Side energy.
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Statement Headband with Slicked Back Hair

Slicked-back hairstyles are pretty, but when you pair them with a dazzling hair accessory, they become regal.
Side Flip Headband Styles

For this style, create a deep side part all the way to your ear, flip your hair over to one side, then pull the headband over your hair. It works with free-flowing styles or updos. The major ingredients are the side flip and, of course, the hair accessory.
Headband with Middle Parts

Instead of pushing your headband back, part your hair down the center, then place the accessory over the crown of your head. Use edge control to keep your hair laid down all day (or night) long.
Knotted Headband Styles

Knotted headbands bring a little twist to the mix. Pair them with your hair up or down and make an irresistible statement.
Headband with Tendrils

After wearing your headband, leave out a few face-framing pieces for a princess-like look. This style works on every hair type, whether you have coils, curls, waves, or straight hair.
Accessories Stacking

Who says headbands can’t be paired with other hair accessories? No one. So pair yours with claw clips, barrettes, hair bands, and beads. It’s a unique and eclectic pairing that allows you to flaunt your style in multiple ways.

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