How To Style Your Hair With A Headband

VectorPilgrim Updated: 2025-08-02

To give you the most polished look possible, we'll show you how to wear a headband in your hair.
This hair accessory will make you look polished even if you have long hair or a pixie cut. (For proof, check out TikToker @whowhatkare!)
Nayeon, a member of the K-pop group Twice, demonstrates how adorable a simple ponytail can look when accessorized with a satin headband. With the casual accessory, the voluminous waves and face-framing curls look so beautiful and harmonious.

1. Updo in braids

You don't necessarily need a big, eye-catching headband, especially if you have thin hair. If you just need something to keep your hair out of your face or don't want to look messy, try this delicate choice.
This stylish braided look is perfect for a formal event or a relaxed day out with the girls. This style is similar to the elegant version of the trendy milkmaid braids that are all the rage these days, but uses additional bobby pins to keep everything in place.

2. Slicked back ponytail

A headband can save the day if you have oily or terrible hair, especially if it's made of a soft, elastic material. When pulled up into a sleek ponytail, the piece can add a sporty touch to short hairstyles like pixie cuts. Follow TikToker Emma August's lead and create a series of fake curtain bangs tucked under the headband for a face-contouring appearance.
Smooth the hair at the back with a styling anti-frizz product and secure with a wide elastic hairband. To create an exquisite, runway-worthy ponytail, comb a little hairspray over your tail for volume, then follow with another mist of Pureology's Texture Finishing Spray.

3. Messy bun

A headband paired with a messy hairstyle gives off an extremely sophisticated, put-together vibe that is playful and carefree at the same time. Apply a small amount of texturizing spray to your thick hair for a rich, textured updo that is sleek and full.
Gather your hair into a ponytail using a clear elastic band and secure it. After that, you can either intentionally let some hair hang out of the elastic ponytail holder for a more casual look or you can tease the bun for extra volume.
Try a double messy bun at the nape of the neck for an even more stylish and voluminous updo. For a high-fashion look, add plenty of silver hair accessories to the stacked buns to make them look neat and tidy.

4. Side braided

Try this adorable headband haircut for a romantic look that will add a beautiful, feminine touch to your appearance. This look goes well with updos and is ideal for long, flowing hair.
Make a regular French braid, starting at the top center of your head and working your way down. Once you've made four crossovers, start braiding small sections of hair from the sides of your head into the middle section. Continue until you reach the hairline, then secure with an elastic band.

5. Loop chains

This headband trick works on all hair types, from a stylish updo that instantly elevates your business look to the ideal finishing touch for a casual lunch. To achieve a preppy look reminiscent of Blair Waldorf, section off a few face-framing strands from your bob haircut, tie them into a temporary ponytail, and cover your hair with a pretty headband, just like TikToker @alyssarayelee.
Try a loose bouffant if you like the blunt bangs trend that's been trending lately; it'll keep your hair looking neat and smooth all day long. Simply take a small section of your strands and place them around the headband at the front, securing with bobby pins if needed.

6. Side-swept braid with bangs

You can still look stylish while keeping your hair out of your face with this simple yet elegant style. Comb out the sections of hair that frame your face and tie them into a side-swept braid that rests on top of your head for a flawless look. To complete the ensemble, simply put on a cute headband with embellishments.
If your hair is longer, you can style it into a low ponytail or slick it back like a pixie cut. To complete the look, wear a headband. For a quick lunch with your BFF or running errands around town, TikToker @alyssarayelee's simple trick looks professional and fashionable.

7. Bangs in a slicked back ponytail

Try wearing a center-parted headband for a sophisticated look that's ideal for a formal event. Apply a strong texturizing spray to your hair or give your strands some pomade, then place the headband just above your forehead and where your bangs part.
For those with shorter hair who want to channel their inner Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl (or someone with a sweet '00s touch like Bella Hadid), this face-framing, appealing look is especially fantastic. For a sophisticated, understated style, pair a thin, embellished headband with sleek, straight hair or slicked-back box braids à la Ruth Negga.