Is it just me, or do headbands make everything better—bad hair days included?
Whether you’re going for boho chic, classic glam, or messy and cute, headbands are the easiest way to switch up your look without the salon.
I’ve rounded up some of my favorite headband hairstyles that are super simple but seriously stylish.
Trust me, your hair will thank you.
Must-See Headband Hairstyles
1. Classic Twist with a Fabric Headband
A classic twist never goes out of style!
Grab a soft fabric headband and twist your hair into a low bun at the nape of your neck.
Simply slide the headband over your hair, ensuring it sits on your forehead, then tuck the ends of your hair into the bun.
This effortless look not only gives you a chic vibe but also keeps your hair neat and tidy.
– Use a headband with a fun pattern to add a pop of personality.
– For extra volume, tease your hair slightly before twisting.
– Perfect for both casual outings and semi-formal events.
2. Half-Up Braided Crown
Bring out your inner princess with a half-up braided crown!
Start by sectioning off the top half of your hair and braid it loosely.
Then, wrap the braid around the crown of your head and secure it with bobby pins.
Add a stylish headband over the braid for a bohemian touch that looks complex but takes only minutes to create.
– Choose a contrasting headband to make the braid pop.
– This style is great for festivals or a day out with friends.
– Don’t worry about perfection; the messier, the better!
3. Sleek Low Ponytail with a Headband
For a quick and polished look, go for a sleek low ponytail complemented by a headband!
Start by straightening your hair for that smooth finish, then gather it into a low ponytail at the nape of your neck.
Wrap a section of hair around the elastic to conceal it and secure it with a bobby pin.
Slide a chic headband over your hair to elevate the simplicity of the ponytail.
– Perfect for work or a dinner date.
– Opt for a shiny headband to enhance the sleekness of your style.
– This look works for all hair types and lengths!
4. Beachy Waves with a Knotted Headband
Channel those beachy vibes even if you’re nowhere near the ocean!
Create loose waves with a curling iron or straightener and let them cool.
Then, take a knotted headband and place it over your hair, pushing it back slightly for a relaxed, carefree look.
This style screams summertime and is perfect for casual outings.
– Add some sea salt spray for a textured finish.
– Play with different headband colors to match your outfit.
– This look is quick, stylish, and oh-so-fun!
5. High Bun with Statement Headband
A sleek high bun is always a winner, and when paired with a statement headband, it turns heads instantly!
Pull your hair up into a high ponytail and twist it into a bun, securing it with hair ties.
The statement headband adds flair and can bring an ordinary bun to life, making it perfect for both casual outings and dressier occasions.
– Experiment with bold patterns or embellishments to match your vibe.
– This look is fantastic for keeping your hair off your face while still looking stylish.
– Add a splash of hairspray to keep everything in place!
6. Low Braid with a Colorful Headband
If you love a relaxed yet pulled-together look, try a low braid decorated with a colorful headband!
Simply gather your hair into a low braid, securing the end with a hair tie.
Slide a colorful headband over the top of your hair, letting it sit just above the braid.
This style is easy, fun, and perfect for a day out or a casual look.
– Opt for a headband that complements your outfit for a cohesive look.
– Great for keeping hair off your neck in warmer weather.
– Add some beachy waves to the front strands for a more relaxed touch!
7. Messy Bun with a Sporty Headband
Headed to the gym or grabbing coffee? A messy bun with a sporty headband is your go-to!
Just gather your hair into a high bun, leaving a few strands out for that effortless look.
Slip on a stretchy, athletic headband to keep everything in place while adding a fun touch to your outfit.
– This is perfect for a quick workout and transitions nicely to casual outings.
– Pair it with minimal makeup and some cute activewear.
– The messy look is trendy and gives off a carefree vibe!
8. Twisted Headband with Loose Strands
This one might surprise you!
A twisted headband paired with loose strands offers the perfect blend of elegancy and casual style.
Start by twisting two sections of hair on either side of your head, securing them behind your ears.
Then, add a fabric headband over the twisted sections to hold everything in place. Let the rest of your hair hang down for a relaxed finish.
– This style works beautifully for date nights or brunch with friends.
– Add some curls to the loose strands for extra flair.
– The contrast between the twisted sections and loose hair is stunning!
9. Floral Headband with Soft Waves
Bring out your inner flower child with a floral headband!
Start with soft waves in your hair; you can use a curling iron or go for natural waves.
Add a floral headband by placing it over your curls, allowing the flowers to rest against your hair.
A romantic and whimsical look that’s perfect for outdoor events or summer festivals.
– The floral design adds a beautiful touch to any outfit.
– Pair it with a sundress for a complete boho vibe.
– Bonus: add a bit of hairspray to keep those waves intact!
10. Retro Headband with Rockabilly Curls
Channel your inner pin-up with a retro headband and rockabilly curls!
Create voluminous curls using a curling iron, then brush them out for that classic look.
Style a wide headband across your forehead to secure the curls while adding a vintage flair.
This hairstyle is fun, flirty, and perfect for themed parties or outings.
– Choose a headband with polka dots or stripes for true retro vibes.
– Pair with winged eyeliner and red lipstick for a complete look.
– Remember, confidence is key in pulling off this bold style!
11. Fishtail Braid with a Headband
Fishtail braids are beautiful, and they become even more stunning with a headband!
Begin by parting your hair down the middle, then create two fishtail braids.
Once done, wear a headband over both braids to hold them in place without any fuss.
This look gives a whimsical touch, making it perfect for any occasion—from casual to semi-formal.
– Use hair ties that match your headband for a cohesive look.
– Leave some strands loose for a soft, romantic feel.
– This hairstyle is a hit for festivals or summer parties!
12. Slick Back with a Chunky Headband
For a chic and modern look, try a slicked-back hairstyle with a chunky headband!
Brush your hair back and apply a bit of gel for that sleek finish.
Use a bold, chunky headband to keep everything in place, and this simple style will make a huge statement.
– Excellent for professional settings or a stylish night out.
– This hairstyle is incredibly versatile and works for all hair types.
– Keep your makeup minimal to let the hair shine!
13. Side Braid with a Cute Bow Headband
Side braids are super cute, especially when paired with a bow headband!
Start by creating a side braid with your hair, pulling in loose strands for a relaxed finish.
Then, secure it with a hair tie and place a playful bow headband over the braid.
This style is perfect for casual outings or when you want to add a bit of whimsy to your look.
– Choose a bold color for the bow to make it pop.
– This hairstyle is super quick and ideal for all ages.
– The juxtaposition of the braid and bow is charming and fun!
14. Textured Low Knot with a Beaded Headband
Create a boho-chic look with a textured low knot and a beaded headband!
Use a texturizing spray to give your hair some volume and create a low knot at the base of your neck.
Finish it off with a gorgeous beaded headband that adds a touch of elegance.
This look is perfect for date nights or brunch with friends, making it effortlessly stylish.
– Let some pieces fall out for a more relaxed look.
– Perfect for medium to longer hair lengths.
– This style works great with summer outfits or flowy dresses!
15. Playful Pigtails with a Colorful Headband
Pigtails aren’t just for kids; they can be so much fun at any age!
Create two playful pigtails by parting your hair down the middle and securing each section with hair ties.
Add a colorful headband to tie the look together and give it a youthful flair.
– This look is ideal for casual outings, festivals, or just running errands.
– Feel free to accessorize with colorful scrunchies or clips.
– Pigtails are low-maintenance and can be styled in under five minutes!
16. Twisted Low Bun with a Knit Headband
For a cozy yet chic vibe, rock a twisted low bun with a knit headband!
Twist your hair into a loose low bun, leaving a few strands out for that effortless look.
Add a comfy knit headband to keep your hair off your face and to provide some warmth.
– This style is great for cooler weather and is easily pulled together.
– It pairs beautifully with oversized sweaters and casual looks.
– Don’t stress about perfection; a little messiness adds charm!
17. Sleek Twist with a Metallic Headband
Get that glamorous look with a sleek twist and a metallic headband!
Start by straightening your hair and then twist it to one side, securing it with a hair tie.
Place a metallic headband over the twist to add a chic touch that makes it perfect for evening wear.
– This hairstyle is easy but makes a big impact!
– Great for parties or celebratory occasions.
– Keep the rest of your hair sleek for a polished look!
18. Loose Messy Waves with a Ruffle Headband
Bring on the fun with loose messy waves and a ruffle headband!
Create beachy waves using a curling wand, letting them fall freely.
Add a ruffle headband to the mix to inject some personality into your look.
This fun style is perfect for casual outings or weekend brunch.
– Play with the texture to create a carefree vibe.
– Choose fun prints for your headband to complement your outfit.
– It’s all about being laid-back and chic!
19. Elegant Updo with a Crystal Headband
For a more formal occasion, an elegant updo with a crystal headband is the way to go!
Gather your hair into a low bun, securing it with bobby pins to create a sophisticated look.
Add a crystal-embellished headband for that extra touch of glam.
– This hairstyle is perfect for weddings or special events.
– Consider using hair gel to smooth out any flyaways.
– A simple dress will let your hair and accessories shine!
20. Bohemian Twist with a Twisted Headband
Bohemian vibes are in when you style your hair in a bohemian twist!
Twist small sections of hair and pin them back, allowing some strands to hang loosely.
Place a twisted headband for added charm and to hold everything in place.
– This look is perfect for outdoor festivals or casual meet-ups.
– Pair with flowy outfits for that effortless boho aesthetic.
– Keep things loose and playful; it’s all about comfort!
21. Effortless Side Sweep with a Beaded Headband
Finish strong with an effortless side sweep adorned with a beaded headband!
Sweep your hair to one side and secure it with a bobby pin for a simple, elegant look.
Add a beaded headband to enhance the style and keep your hair in place.
– This look is perfect for both casual and more formal settings.
– The beauty of this hairstyle is in its simplicity and elegance.
– A quick spritz of hairspray will keep everything tidy!
With these 21 headband hairstyles, you can elevate your look in just minutes!
Each style offers a unique twist on how to incorporate headbands into your everyday routine.
From elegant updos to playful pigtails, there’s a headband hairstyle for every occasion.
Try them out and let your creativity flow; who knows what fabulous looks you’ll discover!
Frequently Asked Questions
What hairstyles work best with headbands?
Headbands pair beautifully with loose waves, sleek ponytails, messy buns, and even short pixie cuts. They add a pop of style while keeping your hair in place, making them perfect for both casual and dressed-up days.
Are headband hairstyles good for short hair?
Absolutely! From chic pixies to shoulder-length bobs, headbands can add structure, color, or a playful vibe to short hair. Try thin bands for a sleek look or wide, knotted ones for extra flair.
Can I wear headbands with curly or textured hair?
Yes, headbands look amazing with curly and natural textures! Choose stretch fabric styles or adjustable bands to avoid tightness, and use them to highlight your volume or frame your curls beautifully.