Famous Fashion: Headbands in History

Famous Fashion: Headbands in History


4 minute read

Headbands seem like they are gaining recent popularity in fashion, but where did they start? Come with us on a fun journey through the history of headbands!

Stop and think about this for a moment: do you know of any famous headbands? There's more than you may think! Noted as the world's favorite accessory, headbands have been a fashion staple since way back when (and we mean WAY back). Hop in the time machine, and join us on a brief journey of this timeless attire!

Headbands were first documented around 475 BC. The Greeks used wreaths in hair as a symbol of status, particularly during the ancient Olympics. See? Headbands were needed for the best workouts, even in the early days of Ancient Greece!


Fast-forward into the early 20th century, people used headbands to snuggly wrap their heads when suffering from headaches (they believed the pressure eased pain... go figure!). This thought is still shared today, with head wraps that can heat or cool for pain relief. Throughout the century at various battlefields, makeshift headbands were used during wartime to help with head injuries, or hold a sweetheart's letters inside a helmet.


Later, the "flappers" of the 1920's made headbands a total fashion statement by creating that extremely recognizable style. If you think fashion has no effect on the world, the roaring 20's literally put an entire outfit to a point in history. Adorned with feathers and jewels, each headband was unique and offered a little self-expression for the wearer.


Women's fashion experienced a renaissance in the 1960's with the growing popularity of headbands and the different ways to wear them. No longer a necessity for wartime (like Rosie the Riveter), people like Brigitte Bardot kept her famous blonde hair back with a large headband.

In more recent history, headbands made a comeback in a very majestic way: Princess Diana loved wearing the Royal family jewels that functioned as an adorable headband for her short hairstyle in place of a crown (proof that headbands DO work for short hair!). In addition, who could forget that iconic look Whitney Houston rocked at the 1991 Super Bowl XXV in Florida?

The 2000's put a fresh spin on headbands using different materials. J-Lo made her mark in history with her classic folded bandana, even wearing them on the red carpet. And the popular Disney TV show, Lizzie McGuire, had the main character wearing all kinds of incredible hair accessories, including a wide variety of headbands.

With how the headband has evolved, it's no surprise that this look is back in the spotlight again in current culture. Probably the most noteworthy in recent years was the TV show 'Gossip Girl's character Blair Waldorf, who expertly paired each look with a classy headband. Clearly, headbands are the eternal queen of the accessories. It's never been a better time to combine form, function and fashion!

Which era best fits your headband personality? Snap a photo and tag us at @lilacmarketheadbands and let us know!

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