How to Wear a Headband — Outfits to Wear With Headbands

Elena Mudd

Every so often, we'll spend our time putting together perfect outfit, only to realize the end result is still missing a little something. And, while a scarf or a handbag can quickly solve our fashion dilemma, we've come to realize that a headband can transform a look, too. There are a variety of ways to wear this accessory — with jeans, with dresses, with formalwear, etc. — and, thanks to street style photos, we aren't lacking when it comes to finding inspiration.

Whether your go-to style is padded, embellished, or made out of a shirt or bandana, we've discovered over a dozen different ways to wear a headband. It turns out this tiny addition packs a powerful punch, which is likely why women like Kate Middleton have recently relied on headbands to complete their look.

Start Slideshow

1 of 14

Try Something Classic

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Want your jeans and blazer combo to look a little less...boring? A headband will surely spice things up.

2 of 14

Channel Style Icons

Kirstin Sinclair/Getty Images

If an all-black outfit with white sneakers seems too simple, this accessory will give your look a fun, Blair Waldorf vibe.

3 of 14

Make It Work For the Office

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Suddenly, a three-piece suit goes from structured and safe to street-style-ready.

4 of 14

Add Some Spice to an Easy Outfit

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

A one-and-done jumpsuit is the easiest outfit option out there, but a padded headband will turn it into a full, statement-making look.

5 of 14

Headbands Look Great Year-Round

Melodie Jeng/Getty Images

Unlike a beret, a headband can be worn through any season, and is the perfect way to amp up summer outfits.

6 of 14

They're a Quick Way to Mix Things Up

Kirstin Sinclair/Getty Images

Use this accessory add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral look.

7 of 14

Wear One With Your Favorite Dress

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Just like a beaded necklace or drop earrings, a headband can make a breezy sundress look like a full, eye-catching outfit.

8 of 14

Or Give Your Sweatpants an Elevated Twist

Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images

Even a sweater and joggers seem less casual when styled with a sleek, black option.

9 of 14

Headbands Can Be Elegant

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

A puff-sleeve dress feels worthy of a formal event when styled with a pearl-embellished headband.

10 of 14

They Come in Handy On All Kinds of Hair Days

Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Just like a hat, a padded headband is an outfit-saver on days when all you can manage is a low bun.

11 of 14

Use Them to Help Master Other Trends

Christian Vierig/Getty Images

Invest in a few vibrant options and use them to color block your outfit.

12 of 14

This Accessory Can Provide Balance

David Dee Delgado/Getty Images

When mixing prints, a headband in a common color scheme will help to pull the pieces together.

13 of 14

Don't Be Afraid to Go All Out

Donell Woodson/Getty Images

Don't feel like you have to settle for one big accessory. A bold headband can be worn with a western belt or statement earrings, too.

14 of 14

It's Another Way to Nail Throwback Style

Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images

A thick, material option will give your maxi dresses a '90s spin.

Replay gallery

Account

More

14 Outfits That Look Even Better With a Headband

1 of 14

Try Something Classic

1 of 14

2 of 14

Channel Style Icons

2 of 14

3 of 14

Make It Work For the Office

3 of 14

4 of 14

Add Some Spice to an Easy Outfit

4 of 14

5 of 14

Headbands Look Great Year-Round

5 of 14

6 of 14

They're a Quick Way to Mix Things Up

6 of 14

7 of 14

Wear One With Your Favorite Dress

7 of 14

8 of 14

Or Give Your Sweatpants an Elevated Twist

8 of 14

9 of 14

Headbands Can Be Elegant

9 of 14

10 of 14

They Come in Handy On All Kinds of Hair Days

10 of 14

11 of 14

Use Them to Help Master Other Trends

11 of 14

12 of 14

This Accessory Can Provide Balance

12 of 14

13 of 14

Don't Be Afraid to Go All Out

13 of 14

14 of 14

It's Another Way to Nail Throwback Style

14 of 14

Share the Gallery

Up Next

Share the Gallery