How to Create a Summer Look With Headbands

One great way to update your style without spending a ton of money is to accessorize wisely. Using headbands in the summer gives you form and function. Headbands help you to manage your hair in the summer heat while keeping your look summer casual. You also get the latest summer look by using headbands to match the current hot summer fashion trends.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Spend some time researching what's big in fashion for the summer. Visit your local bookstore and browse fashion magazine like "Vogue," "W," "Glamour" and "Elle" for an idea of what's in this summer. You can also check online fashion sites like Fashion Net and Style.com (see Resources below).

2. Find a picture of a celebrity wearing a summer headband style that appeals to you and use it to create your own look. Take into account your hairstyle, including the length of your hair and whether you have bangs or not. For summer, headbands that tie at the nape of the neck or on top of the head work well with long hair. Smooth, wide headbands look great with any hairstyle.

3. Choose the colors and patterns for your headbands based on the fashion trends of the summer. This is where your headbands can really make a difference. Instead of buying a whole new wardrobe, use your headbands to reflect what's big. So if bold floral patterns are in, you can subtly capitalize on the trend by wearing a floral-patterned headband to accessorize an outfit you already own.

4. Rely on evergreen summer looks to play it safe. If you don't want to be too bold or creative with your headbands, you can still look hip and fresh. In general, cheery colors and floral patterns are safe to wear in the summer. You can add a few daisies to a bland headband to make it more summery.

5. Amp up your look even more by using your headbands to create a tousled, summery hairstyle. First, add mousse to your hair while it's still wet. Then scrunch your hair to create waves and curls. Slide your headband over your head and let your hair swing free.

6. Design a cool but carefree look by wearing your headband with your hair pinned up. Slide your headband on first, letting some of your hair and bangs swing forward to frame your face. Then, pin the hair up off your neck in a loose bun. This look gives you a very summery blend of formal and informal, and with the hair off your neck you'll feel cooler.

Resources

• See the latest fashions at Style.com.
• Fashion.net, the guide to all things chic

[writer7]

on 7/13/2009 I love wearing headbands. Great article!