19 Headband Hairstyles Ideas
Let’s be real—headbands are the unsung heroes of hair accessories. Bad hair day? Headband. Running late? Headband.
Want to look like you “tried” without actually trying? Yup… headband.
I’ve been obsessed with them since my school days (and not just because they hid my awkward growing-out bangs).
So, if you’re looking for ways to rock a headband without feeling like you’ve raided a 5-year-old’s dress-up box, here are 19 headband hairstyles that range from casual to “wow, did you hire a stylist?” Ready? Let’s go.
1. The Classic Push-Back
Sometimes, less really is more. A simple fabric or plastic headband pushing your hair back instantly gives a polished, girl-next-door vibe.
- Perfect for second-day hair.
- Works with straight, wavy, or curly textures.
- Go for thicker bands if you want a bold statement, or thin and dainty for subtle charm.
Pro tip: Add a few loose face-framing strands so it doesn’t feel too “school picture day.”
2. Boho Waves with a Braided Headband
If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner festival queen (without the questionable camping hygiene), this is your go-to.
- Curl your hair into loose beachy waves.
- Use a braided fabric headband or a faux hair braid headband.
The result? Effortless, artsy, and perfect for brunch or concerts.
3. Messy Bun + Wide Fabric Headband
Ever have those mornings where you just… can’t? Throw your hair into a messy bun, pop on a wide fabric headband, and boom—lazy chic.
- Covers greasy roots (thank you, dry shampoo).
- Adds volume up top without trying.
IMO, it’s the perfect Zoom meeting hack.
4. Sleek Low Ponytail with a Satin Headband
If “office chic” were a hairstyle, this would be it.
- Straighten your hair for that glass hair look.
- Secure in a low ponytail.
- Slide on a satin or velvet headband for that luxe touch.
It’s clean, professional, but still fun. Kind of like wearing sneakers with a suit.
5. Curly Puff with a Statement Headband
If you’ve got natural curls or coils, a headband can highlight that gorgeous volume.
- Style a high puff.
- Use a bold print or embellished headband.
It frames your face and makes your curls pop. Bonus: no one will guess you only spent five minutes on your hair.
6. Half-Up, Half-Down with a Knotted Headband
This one’s my personal date-night favorite.
- Pull the top half of your hair into a ponytail or mini bun.
- Add a knotted headband in a fun color.
You get the best of both worlds—hair off your face but still flowing.
7. Retro Beehive + Thin Headband
Ever wanted that ’60s movie star glamour?
- Tease the crown for volume (yes, hairspray will be your BFF).
- Add a thin elastic headband a couple inches back from your hairline.
Pair with cat-eye eyeliner and you’re basically Audrey Hepburn. Well… almost.
8. Side Braid with a Fabric Headband
Side braids are cute on their own, but add a headband and suddenly you look Pinterest-worthy.
- Works with fishtail, three-strand, or rope braids.
- Great for casual days or picnics.
Also, it’s a genius way to hide that awkward growing-out fringe. Just saying.
9. High Ponytail + Sporty Headband
Athleisure lovers, rejoice.
- Throw your hair in a high ponytail.
- Add a stretchy athletic headband.
Whether you’re actually working out or just “running errands” (aka getting coffee), it screams sporty-cool.
10. Loose Waves with a Bejeweled Headband
Special occasion? Skip the tiara and go for a sparkly headband.
- Soft curls or waves set the stage.
- Let the jewels or pearls do the talking.
It’s basically instant princess energy without the Disney contract.
11. Afro with a Color-Pop Headband
A bold headband on a full, natural afro? Chef’s kiss.
- Go bright with neon, patterns, or metallics.
- Let the contrast make your curls stand out even more.
It’s a statement without saying a word.
12. Straight Hair with a Wide Leather Headband
Edgy meets chic.
- Keep hair pin-straight.
- Add a wide leather (or faux leather) headband.
Perfect with a leather jacket or even to spice up a plain tee-and-jeans day.
13. French Braid Crown + Floral Headband
When you’re feeling extra romantic…
- Braid your hair along your crown.
- Add a floral headband over it for a whimsical touch.
Honestly, it’s giving cottagecore princess vibes. Someone pass me a picnic basket.
14. Short Bob with a Thin Metallic Headband
Headbands aren’t just for long hair.
- Style your bob sleek or wavy.
- Add a thin metallic band for a touch of shine.
Simple, modern, and ridiculously easy.
15. Low Chignon + Embellished Headband
For weddings, formal events, or “I just feel fancy” days.
- Twist your hair into a low chignon.
- Add an embellished headband just behind your hairline.
It’s elegant without looking overdone.
16. Textured Pixie with a Skinny Headband
Short hair doesn’t have to be boring.
- Mess up your pixie with a little styling cream for texture.
- Add a skinny headband for contrast.
Cute, playful, and five-second styling? Yes, please.
17. Loose Side Curls with a Velvet Headband
Velvet = instant luxury.
- Part your hair to one side.
- Curl it loosely.
- Add a plush velvet headband.
It’s soft glam that works for both dinner parties and coffee dates.
18. Top Knot + Bandana-Style Headband
Channel your inner street-style star.
- Throw your hair in a top knot.
- Fold a bandana into a headband shape and tie at the nape.
It’s casual, cool, and perfect for summer festivals.
19. Layered Lob with a Padded Headband
The padded headband trend isn’t going anywhere.
- Style your lob with soft waves.
- Add a padded headband in a bold color.
It’s an easy way to look “styled” without touching a curling iron too much.
Final Thoughts
Headbands aren’t just accessories—they’re lifesavers in fabric, leather, and sparkle form. You can dress them up for weddings, keep them casual for errands, or use them to fake a good hair day.
So the next time your hair refuses to cooperate (because let’s be honest, it will), remember you’ve got 19 tricks up your sleeve. Or, well… on your head.
Which one’s your go-to? I’m calling dibs on the messy bun + wide fabric headband combo—lazy chic forever. 🙂
