In truth, we all have bad hair days. But ever since circuit breaker started, and we haven’t been able to rely on hair salons for our usual makeovers (except the most basic of cuts), chances are those days are happening a lot more frequently now. There’s no need to worry about your next Zoom call, though, because the humble headband is here to help.
Easier to adopt and far more polished than a messy topknot (aka the struggle bun), headbands well deserve a place in your wardrobe, work from home and otherwise. Just ask Blair Cornelia Waldorf, who never underestimated the transformative power of a good hairband. Or Miuccia Prada, who singlehandedly catapulted the accessory back to must-have status when she paired every single one of her ‘60s-inspired Spring/Summer 2019 looks with a headband – padded, studded, beribboned, satin, leather, you name it, Prada did a better version of it.
The style already has the celebrity seal of approval, counting everyone from Angelina Jolie and Charlize Theron to Zendaya and Nicola Peltz to Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber on its bandwagon. Not to forget Chrissy Teigen, who has an entire Instagram series dedicated to her #HBOTD, or Headband of the Day, with a theme song by John Legend to match.
And who could blame them? Suited to pretty much any hair type, length, and colour, the right headband can add an instant touch of fun or sophistication to your outfit, depending on what you’re going for. Better still, it takes the attention away from your grown-in roots and slept-in hair, so you look like you have it all together, even if you don’t feel like it.
Ready for your crowning glory? Keep scrolling for some of our favourite picks.
Nylon Headband, Prada
You can’t talk about headbands and not mention Prada, and this carnation pink number is a good place to start – extra thick for an extra big sartorial statement.
Polka Dot Double G Silk Headband, Gucci
As eccentric as you might expect from Alessandro Michele, if you’re looking for a conversation piece, this is it.
Appliquéd floral headband, Dolce & Gabbana
Forget floral bouquets, Dolce & Gabbana’s blooming version comes up roses. Perhaps best with an all-white or all-black outfit, but you do you.
Faux Pearl Spiked Headband, Simone Rocha
Equal parts sweet and fierce, this headband practically screams “don’t mess with me”.
Nylon Headband, Ganni
Leopard print is now a neutral, so you can consider this one versatile.
Colourblocked Satin Headband, Eugenia Kim
Make like Zendaya and wear this with matching bright colours, and you’re sure to turn heads.
Metallic Faux Leather Headband, Lele Sadoughi
Metallics aren’t just for parties, but if you’re not ready to go head-to-toe, this shimmery headband is a step in the right direction.
Floral Silk Headband, Cult Gaia
Even if a balmy beach holiday is off limits for now, at least you’ll look like you’re on vacation with this jaunty headband.
Pearl Headband, Jennifer Behr
Not your grandmother’s pearls, this exquisite piece is as timeless as they come.