How to Wear a Flapper Headband

A headband is the quickest way to look 1920s. Worn the right way, it frames the face and instantly says Gatsby. Here is how to wear a flapper headband with any hair length, and how to choose the right one for your dress.

1. Prepare Your Hair

The headband should sit close to the head, so smooth hair works best. With short hair, add soft waves with a curling iron or setting lotion. With long hair, make a low bun at the nape, or pin the lengths under to create a faux bob. A light texturizing spray gives the band something to grip.

2. Place It Low

In the 1920s, headbands were worn low across the forehead, just above the eyebrows, not on top of the head like a modern hair band. Slide it on from the back, then lower the front until it sits straight across the forehead.

3. Put the Decoration on the Side

Turn the band so the feather, jewel or plume sits on one side, roughly above the ear. This asymmetry is what makes the look feel true to the era without looking like a costume.

4. Secure It

Two small bobby pins behind the ears, crossed through the band, keep it in place while you dance. Elastic and stretch bands hold on their own for most hair types.

5. Match It to Your Dress

Gold-tone headbands suit black and gold dresses; silver and crystal suit black and silver; white feathers and faux pearls suit brides and white dresses. With a heavily beaded dress, choose a slim band; with a simple fringe dress, a bold feather headband balances the look. Browse all styles in our flapper headbands.

Feather or Jewel?

Feather headbands are playful and photogenic, perfect for parties. Jeweled and faux pearl headpieces feel more formal and bridal. Fascinators with a short veil suit cocktail and wedding looks.

Caring for Your Headband

Store headbands flat in a box so the feathers keep their shape. If a feather flattens, hold it near gentle steam at a safe distance. Keep perfume and hair spray away from rhinestones and faux pearls.