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  4. 24 Outfits That Look Even Better With a Headband

24 Outfits That Look Even Better With a Headband

By Samantha Sutton
Updated Jan 01, 2021 @ 9:30 am
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
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Every so often, we'll spend our time putting together the perfect outfit, only to realize the end result is still missing a little something. A scarf or a blazer have solved these fashion dilemmas plenty of times, but after so much time spent on Zoom, video chatting from the waist up, we've come to realize that a headband has the power to transform a look, too.

There are a variety of ways to wear a headband — with sweatsuits, jeans, dresses, and even formalwear — and thanks to street style photos, we aren't lacking inspiration. Plus, whether your go-to style is knotted, padded, embellished, or made out of a shirt or bandana, this accessory looks great on everyone and works for all hair types.

There's no denying that this tiny addition packs a powerful punch — which is probably why women such as Kate Middleton, Chrissy Teigen, and Keke Palmer all keep them in their rotation.

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Don't Overthink It

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Headbands works for every type of outfit and occasion, and they especially pair well with simple looks.

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2 of 24

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Invest in an Everyday Option

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Something in a neutral shade like black or beige will come in handy, and prove to be extremely versatile no matter what you have on.

2 of 24

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Use a Scarf or Bandana

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Don't have an actual headband on hand? A knotted bandana or scarf looks just as great.

3 of 24

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You Can't Go Wrong With Classic

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If your goal is to make your jeans and blazer combo a little less...boring, a headband will surely spice things up.

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Channel Style Icons

Credit: Kirstin Sinclair/Getty Images

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

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Try a Subtle Surprise

Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Reach for something that almost blends in with your hair color, or allow it to peek out ever-so-slightly, making things much more interesting.

6 of 24

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7 of 24

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Make It 'Work'

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

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Experiment With Prints

Credit: Christian Vierig/Getty Images

If you're the type who can't stop reaching for the same old solids and darker shades, something leopard or polka-dotted is an easy way to test out prints and patterns and give old clothes a boost.

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Add a Little Spice to an Easy Outfit

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

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Headbands Look Great Year-Round

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Unlike a beret, a headband can be worn through any season, and is the perfect way to amp up summer outfits when layering isn't an option.

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Level Up

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Slide a vibrant headband on in order to add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral look.

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Style One With Your Favorite Dress

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Just like a beaded necklace or drop earrings, a headband turns a breezy dress into a full, eye-catching outfit.

12 of 24

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Give Comfy Clothes an Elevated Twist

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

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Headbands Can Be Elegant

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

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Make Use of One With Pearls or Beads

Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

They'll give your look that additional "wow" factor, since they're pretty regal and crown-like.

15 of 24

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Look For Fun Details

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If beads and sparkle aren't your style, go the super sweet and feminine route with a big (or small) bow.

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Headbands Work For All Kinds of Hair Days

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

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Find a Perfect Match

Credit: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images

Color coordinate with similar shades, or invest in a pre-paired set, like the dress and headband combos sold at Hill House Home. You can even match your mask to your look if you want.

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Use a Headband to Nail Other Trends

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Neons and other bright colors will be useful if you plan to color block your outfit.

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This Accessory Can Provide Balance

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When wearing multiple prints, a headband in a common color scheme can help to pull those pieces together.

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Or, You Can Mix Things Up

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You can also go the opposite route and throw on another fun pattern that features similar colors.

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Embrace Preppy Style

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If you're looking for a timeless outfit that still shows off your impeccable taste, pair a basic black option with structured, beige and other neutral pieces.

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Throw It Back

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

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Don't Be Afraid to Go All Out

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

24 of 24

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Skip slide summaries

Everything in This Slideshow

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View All

1 of 24 Don't Overthink It
2 of 24 Invest in an Everyday Option
3 of 24 Use a Scarf or Bandana
4 of 24 You Can't Go Wrong With Classic
5 of 24 Channel Style Icons
6 of 24 Try a Subtle Surprise
7 of 24 Make It 'Work'
8 of 24 Experiment With Prints
9 of 24 Add a Little Spice to an Easy Outfit
10 of 24 Headbands Look Great Year-Round
11 of 24 Level Up
12 of 24 Style One With Your Favorite Dress
13 of 24 Give Comfy Clothes an Elevated Twist
14 of 24 Headbands Can Be Elegant
15 of 24 Make Use of One With Pearls or Beads
16 of 24 Look For Fun Details
17 of 24 Headbands Work For All Kinds of Hair Days
18 of 24 Find a Perfect Match
19 of 24 Use a Headband to Nail Other Trends
20 of 24 This Accessory Can Provide Balance
21 of 24 Or, You Can Mix Things Up
22 of 24 Embrace Preppy Style
23 of 24 Throw It Back
24 of 24 Don't Be Afraid to Go All Out

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24 Outfits That Look Even Better With a Headband
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