Some trends always return, and the zig-zag headband is one of them. This accessory is having a serious moment again. Whether you’re going to a Y2K party or just want to keep your hair off your face, it’s always handy.
It’s effortless, stylish, and works with almost any hair length and texture. The best part? You don’t need to be a pro to pull it off. With a little creativity and the right zigzag headband, you can turn an everyday look into a bold statement in seconds.
But which hairstyle suits this accessory? Ahead, we answer that question. Keep reading as we dive in.
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Why Zigzag Headbands are Back in 2026
The zigzag headband, otherwise called a shark-tooth, stretch-comb, or accordion headband, has a recognizable look. Unlike a regular headband that sits flat against your hair, its teeth separate sections of hair when pushed backward, creating unique narrow lines around the hairline. It can also hide greasy roots, control shorter layers and make unstyled hair look intentional.
It was popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s, when tiny sunglasses, slicked-back hair, and minimalist accessories dominated celebrity style. However, it’s reemerging in 2026—thanks to celebrities and luxury houses.
Hailey Bieber has sported the zigzag headband repeatedly, showing just how versatile the accessory is. Sometimes she rocks it with her hair down or in a bun. Similarly, Miu Miu took the ’90s headband to the runway for its Fall/Winter 2026 collection. Instead of using the familiar, inexpensive plastic design, the high-end brand elevated the concept with luxury materials and even put Bieber in a campaign rocking the headband.
And that’s how an accessory once considered inexpensive has become a runway and celebrity favourite. Now, the zigzag headband ball is in your court.
Hairstyles to Pair with a Zigzag Headband
Zigzag headbands can be chic and preppy; it all depends on your vibe. Dress them up for dinner or keep them low-key for workouts and errands. Wearing one is super easy with no complicated technique involved. First, slick back your hair, slide the headband on, position the teeth near your hairline, then push it back until you get your desired space. And tada! You’re good to go.
A zigzag headband looks great with many different hairstyles. From slick buns to loose curls, ponytail, and braids, there’s a style here for every mood, outfit, and vibe. Here are the best of them:
Zigzag Headband with Bun
For a polished look, smooth your hair into a low or high bun, then add the accessory. It’ll create for a clean finish perfect for any occasion, especially when you want to look sleek while keeping your hair out of the way.
Zig Zag Headband with a Messy Bun
If you love an intentional undone moment, this one’s for you. Toss your hair into a messy updo, then slip on the accessory. For more accents, leave a few face-framing tendrils out, and you’ll look tres chic.
Half-Up Half-Down with Zigzag Headband
Want your hair to feel styled without doing much? Pull the top half of your hair up, secure it with a hair tie, and slide in your shark-tooth headband. It’ll add the structure you need to balance the texture in your loose strands.
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Zigzag Headband with Loose Curls
If your hair is curly or wavy, this style lets your natural texture shine. Push the headband back a bit to lift the roots, then let your curls or waves do their thing. It’s simple, pretty, and easy to pull off.
High Ponytail
A zigzag headband paired with a high ponytail is a showstopper. First, brush your hair up and secure it tightly. Then add the accordion headband to frame your face and give that fun Y2K vibe. Keep the pony sleek, or add curls for extra bounce.
Sleek Straight Hair
If you just straightened your hair and want to keep it sleek, a stretch-comb headband adds the perfect finish. It’s a simple way to turn a simple straight style into something eye-catching while keeping your strands in place.
Top Knot
Style your hair into a high top knot, then slip on a shark-tooth headband for a playful look. Take it up a notch with a bold lip or statement earrings that announce your presence before you speak.
Braided Ponytail
A sleek ponytail is always on point, but braiding the ends adds a fresh twist. Finish it off with a shark-tooth headband for a look that’s super chic with little effort.
Box Braids & Zigzag Headband
Pairing box braids with a classic 1990s-style stretch-comb headband is an effortless way to pull braids back from your face with a touch of nostalgia. Elevate the look by laying your baby hairs with a small amount of edge control or gel for a fabulous look.
Zigzag Headband with Bangs
Bangs bring that soft, face-framing vibe to an otherwise boring look, and a zigzag headband only makes them better. Slide the headband just behind your bangs so they fall naturally while the rest of your hair stays pushed back. The accessory helps you style your hair without messing up your bangs.
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