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The Evolution of Headbands: Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy to Today's It-GirlsWRITTEN IN COLLABORATION WITH TURNA ASLAN
AUGUST 1, 2024
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Let’s talk about an accessory that has stood the test of time and trends: headbands. If you’re anything like me, you probably have a few headbands stashed in your drawer, ready to elevate any outfit. Whether paired with a chic sundress for a summer brunch or used to tie together a casual jeans-and-tee-combo, headbands are a go-to for effortless style. This article looks at the evolution of headbands—from Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s minimalist elegance to Blair Waldorf's iconic looks on Gossip Girl--and how today’s fashion it-girls keep them alive.
Minimalist Elegance: Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy
The late Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, a Calvin Klein publicist and wife to JFK Jr., showcased a subtle yet captivating approach to wearing headbands. Her sleek, simple headbands were a breath of fresh air, proving that sometimes less is more. She was truly the epitome of '90s minimalist chic. Her iconic tortoiseshell headband from C.O. Bigelow in Manhattan's Greenwich Village became a symbol of understated elegance—and it was accessible to everyone, with headbands retailing between $20 to $30 back in the day. The affordable accessory seamlessly blended into both casual city looks and formal ensembles.
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Blair Waldorf’s Signature Piece
Transitioning from '90s minimalism to the striking statements of Leighton Meester's Blair Waldorf, the headband took a new, preppy-chic identity in the late aughts. I vividly remember watching Gossip Girl and being mesmerized by Blair's collection of headbands. They were more than just accessories; they were statements. From satin and embellished pieces to bold, structured bands, Blair's headbands were a crucial part of her Upper East Side persona. Her style influence was so powerful that it brought headbands back into mainstream fashion and had designers vying to get screen time for their accessories to be seen on Waldorf’s head.
For those looking to emulate Waldorf, similar headbands can be found by designers like Lele Sadoughi and Jennifer Behr (whose headbands have been on the show!).
For those looking to emulate Waldorf, similar headbands can be found by designers like Lele Sadoughi and Jennifer Behr (whose headbands have been on the show!).
The 2010s Revival
Fast forward a few years to the 2010s, and headbands were making waves on the runways. Major fashion houses like Prada and Gucci reintroduced headbands with innovative designs that were hard to ignore. Whether they were bejeweled, padded, or sporty, there was something for everyone. I remember seeing these headbands and feeling excited about the endless possibilities they offered. The variety during this period truly showcased how adaptable headbands are, fitting into any fashion narrative.
Prada Fall 2010 RTWBarbara Palvin Look 15
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Gucci Resort 2017Marjan Jonkman Look 5
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Prada Spring 2019 RTWDetail Look 115
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Today’s It-Girls and Their Take on Headbands
Nowadays, headbands are a staple for fashion influencers like Bella Hadid and Mia Goth. They're wearing all types of styles, but the jet-black color option seems to be the most widely sported. Hadid was spotted at Paris’s Caviar Kaspia for Hailey Bieber's Wardrobe.NYC collaboration celebration on September 30, 2022, wearing a sleek black satin headband that perfectly complemented her leather monochrome outfit. Meanwhile, Goth took inspiration from the '60s, arriving at the Miu Miu S/S 2023 show during Paris Fashion Week on October 3, 2023, with a soft black jersey band that added a touch of playful elegance to her edgy (no brows) look.
Darian DiCianno/BFA.com
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Jacopo Raule/Getty Images
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Brands like Miu Miu and Prada continue to innovate, blending nostalgia with contemporary flair. Miu Miu has reimagined the classic padded headband with modern fabrics and textures, while Prada has incorporated vintage-inspired designs with contemporary embellishments. I love seeing how today’s it-girls mix and match headbands with their outfits, incorporating them into their style. It’s a testament to how headbands have evolved and remained relevant in the ever-changing world of fashion.
Miu Miu Duchess Headband
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Prada Crochet Headband
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Whether you’re channeling Blair’s boldness, Carolyn’s classiness, or today’s it-girls’ trendiness, headbands are here to stay and have proven to be an enduring accessory.
