Can Older Women Wear Headbands Fashionably?
Headbands have become a trendy fashion accessory that allows women to pull back their hair stylishly. But is there an age cutoff where headbands become unsuitable for mature women? Let's discuss how older ladies can wear headbands both fashionably and age appropriately.
The Evolution of Headbands
Headbands first rose in popularity in the 1920s as a sports accessory to keep hair back. They became a trendy hair accessory in the 1960s and 70s among youth culture.
Today, thick fabric headbands called Alice bands are back in fashion. Thin hair ties and plastic headbands are also popular for creating an effortless, pulled together look.
Benefits of Wearing Headbands
There are many reasons why women of all ages enjoy wearing headbands:
- Keeps hair back from face
- Pulls back hair smoothly and comfortably
- Avoids tension or pulling from ponytails
- Versatile for various hairstyles and textures
- Wide variety of colors, fabrics and styles
- Affordable accessory to change up your look
Guidelines for Older Women Wearing Headbands
Can women over 50, 60 or 70 still pull off wearing a cute headband? Absolutely! Here are some tips for age appropriate headband styles:
Choose Subtle Neutrals
Bright neons or overly youthful prints may look out of place on mature ladies. Stick to neutral, earth tone headbands in colors like black, brown, tan, gray or blush pink.
Textured fabrics like linen, cotton and wool also convey a refined elegance perfect for older women.
Match Headband Width to Hair Length
Choose wide Alice bands for longer hair as narrow bands can get lost. For short hair, narrower bands and thin hair ties make more sense proportionally.
Match the headband width to the length and volume of your hair for balance.
Compliment Your Natural Hair Color
Look for headbands in colors that flatter your natural or dyed hair color. For example, brown or tan bands suit brunettes. Silver or grey complements white or grey hair.
Avoid headbands in clashing colors like red bands on blonde hair which can appear jarring.
Style with Simple Outfits
The youthful nature of headbands means they can easily overpower a mature look. Balance headbands with simple tops and pants in solid, neutral colors.
Let the headband be the accent rather than competing prints and loud colors in your clothing.
Skip Sparkly and Novelty Styles
Glittery, sparkling headbands with bright colors or childish motifs skew young. Maintain sophistication with muted metallics like gold and silver instead.
Also avoid novelty headbands with feathers, flowers or animal ears meant for costumes or kids.
Headband Styling Tips for Older Women
Headbands give mature women plenty of chic styling options. Here are fashionable ways to integrate headbands into your everyday outfits:
The Half Updo
Create a half updo by pulling back only the top front section of your hair. Secure with a linen Alice band that matches your hair color. This elongates the face gracefully.
The Full Updo
For a tidy finished look, draw all your hair back smoothly into a low ponytail or bun. Wrap a wide headband around the base to hide any elastic bands.
The Side Part
Part your hair dramatically to one side and tuck behind the ear. Place a thin neutral headband on the opposite side, above the ear for asymmetry.
The Headband Braid
Braid a small front section of hair across your forehead. Wrap a fabric headband over the braid to incorporate it elegantly.
Bangs Styles
If you have bangs or fringe, sweep them to the side and secure with a headband worn low across your forehead.
You can also pull bangs back into a half updo with a headband.
Headband Options for Older Women
From classic fabric bands to sporty athletic styles, older women have many fashionable headband choices:
Fabric Headbands
Fabric headbands like Alice bands have a timeless preppy look. Go for linen, cotton or wool in 1-3 inches wide. Tortoise shell and leather give off vintage vibes.
Knitted Headbands
Chunky knitted headbands are on trend and provide warmth in winter. Choose “cabled” bands or soft cashmere in neutral, earthy hues.
Turban Headbands
Turban bands with front knots add volume and sophistication for short hair. Try silk or twisted cotton turbans.
Plastic Headbands
Classic plastic headbands slide easily into hair. Pick muted metallic or transparent bands for a barely-there look.
Sporty Headbands
Headbands designed for working out help keep sweat at bay. Look for performance fabrics like dry-fit, nylon, or spandex.
Go for wider sport bands so they don’t dig in.
Dress Up Casual Outfits with Headbands
Even if your daily attire leans more casual, headbands add a dash of polish. Dress up basic casual looks like:
Jeans and Tee
Swap a ponytail for a thin tan headband with relaxed weekend jeans and tee. Add ballet flats and a blazer for brunch.
Cardigan and Tank
Give your leggings and tank relaxed vibe with a slouchy open cardigan. Add a knitted headband for a cafe-ready look.
Button Down
Make your button down and trousers look chicer by pulling your hair into a low side bun and wrapping it with a tortoise headband.
Athleisure Wear
Dress up athletic leggings and hoodies by swapping your ponytail for a sporty performance fabric headband.
Avoid Headbands That Age You
Stay clear of juvenile headbands that can age older women like:
Childish Styles
Cartoon character, fuzzy animal or glittery headbands should be left for the kids.
Costume Accessories
Avoid Halloween-esque headbands with cat ears, bunny ears or fairy wings.
Too Much Bling
Excessive sparkle, rhinestones and metallic shine appears over the top.
Neon Colors
Loud neon pinks, greens, oranges come across as very youthful.
Oversized Bows
Big floppy bows should be reserved for little girls.
Aim for mature elegance by selecting neutral, fabric headbands without childish motifs or blinding sparkle.
Headbands Are Ageless with Some Adaptation
While headbands tend to skew young, they can absolutely be fashionable on older women as well. The key is choosing width, textures, and colors that are flattering and appropriate.
With so many styles to explore in fabrics, prints and materials, headbands allow mature ladies to accessorize with panache.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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