How to Wear a Headband and Still Look Sophisticated

Look sleak, not silly

Headbands can look chic or school-girlish, it's up to you. It's easy to do, but easier to do wrong and, thus, ruin your look. Once you've mastered a sophisticated look, you'll see why an accessory that was once confined to the schoolyard has made a big comeback for adults too.

Instructions

1. Choose headbands that are classic size and pattern. Thin headbands in black, brown, dark blue and gray work well for days when you simply want to pull your hair out of your face or haven't had a lot of time to pull your look together. Brush your hair neatly behind the band and check the back with a mirror.

2. Choose a larger, fuller headband if you want to cover roots or control frizz. Spritz on some hairspray to tame your mane, and add shine syrum if you still need a bit more management.

3. Pair larger headbands with either patterned or plain outfits, depending on the look you're going for. If you're wearing a loud print, use the headband to pull your hair back, thus focusing attention on your outfit. Finish the look with a basic pair of stud earrings. If you're wearing a plain-colored outfit or basic ensemble, put the focus on your face. Pull your bangs out, volumize the hair that's swept behind the headband by blow drying it and wear a pair of earrings that will add a little sparkle to your style.

4. Pull all your hair completely back behind the headband if you are wearing a business suit, coat with a large collar or any other type of professional-looking attire.

5. Pull your bangs, along with a few whisps, out from behind your headband if you're wearing a flowy top, shirt dress or any other top that pairs well with tights, skinny leg jeans or stretch pants.

6. Create a sleak ponytail by pulling your hair behind the headband and teasing it a bit. Once you create some volume, tie your hair with a rubberband. If you still need extra volume, use a pick, pencil or the slim part of a coin to slide between your scalp and the rubberband to lift up some hair.

7. Wear a slim jeweled headband to dress up a look. Curl your hair and then pull it back behind your ears with the sparkly headband. Just be sure that the headband doesn't attract more attention than the rest of your look.

Tips & Warnings

• Headbands don't typically pair well with short skits, pleated skirts, plaid or short minidresses because they evoke the school-girl look.