Headband

A headband is a band of flexible material worn around the head, typically encircling the hairline. Its primary purposes are to keep hair away from the face, manage sweat, and reduce glare in bright conditions. Beyond functionality, headbands function as fashion accessories and cultural symbols, varying widely in width, material, and styling.

Common variants include sweatbands, usually made of terrycloth or synthetic microfiber, worn on the forehead to absorb moisture; fashion headbands, which can be narrow or wide and made from fabric such as cotton, jersey, velvet, or satin; and sport or grip bands, which may incorporate elastic or silicone to stay in place during activity. Materials range from soft textiles to more rigid elements, with decorative beads or metal accents in some ceremonial forms.

Usage spans athletics, fashion, and ceremonial contexts. In sports, headbands help wick moisture and hold hair or sweat out of the eyes. In fashion, they complement outfits and hairstyles, from bohemian wrap bands to sleek athletic looks. In some cultures, headbands or fillets appear in traditional dress; for example, the Japanese hachimaki is a cloth headband worn as a symbol of effort or perseverance, while classical fillets and diadems appeared in ancient civilizations as ceremonial or royal accessories.

Care and durability considerations vary by material. Many fabric headbands are machine washable; elastics may degrade over time. For longevity, avoid high heat and follow fabric care instructions.

See also: hair accessory, diadem, hair tie, band.