How to Pull Off a Headband

Between the ethereal, flower child headbands I saw at this month's DvF show and the parade of thick, thin, and sparkly ones on Gossip Girl, I'm kind of obsessed with headbands right now. But every time I wear one, I worry that I look silly--and will have a migraine by lunchtime.

Convinced headbands are just for little girls? Check out these runway styles that will make you think again.

I asked Jennifer Behr, who makes headbands worn by Maggie Gyllenhaal, Nicole Richie, and the cast of GG, what to look for when buying. (Check out her site for some cute, non-dorky styles.)

  • Consider your face shape. If you have a small face and fine features, a big floral number is going to overwhelm you. Go for a simple, thin headband. If you have a full face and prominent features, choose a thicker band. It's all about proportion.

  • Hairbands are like jeans: Stretch helps. Not only does elastic keep a smooth, sleek shape, it's also more comfortable.

  • Stay far, far away from molded plastic. Even though they may look sleek and mod, you'll have a headache after a few hours.

  • Treat it like jewelry. Once you start adding earrings, a necklace, a bracelet, and so on, it's a hot mess. Keep your other accessories to a minimum.

For more headband ideas, check out hairstylist Chris McMillan's page in the October issue of Allure.

If headbands truly aren't for you, these other bold beauty statements are another alternative to your every day routine.

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