Headband

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Silver coin of Bahram II (cropped)

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Plastic hairband

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Cute baby girl

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Aliseda diadema de tipo ibérico

Flag of Corsica

Headband is a clothing accessory worn in the hair or around the forehead, usually to hold hair away from the face or eyes. Headbands generally consist of a loop of elastic material or a horseshoe-shaped piece of flexible plastic or metal. They come in assorted shapes and sizes and are used for both fashion and practical purposes.

History

The history of the headband dates back to ancient civilizations. In ancient Greece, headbands known as diadems were made of metal or fabric and often signified royalty or deity status. Similarly, in ancient Rome, headbands or fillets were worn as a symbol of honor, especially by athletes and poets. Throughout history, headbands have evolved in style and significance, reflecting the cultural and fashion trends of the times.

Types

There are several types of headbands, each serving different purposes:

• Sports Headbands: Designed to keep sweat and hair out of the eyes while doing physical activities. These are often made from absorbent materials like terrycloth.
• Fashion Headbands: Worn more for decorative purposes than functionality. These can be made from a variety of materials including fabric, metal, and plastic, and may be adorned with jewels, feathers, flowers, or other embellishments.
• Elastic Headbands: Made from stretchy material, these headbands are used to secure hair in place. They can be thin or wide and come in various colors and designs.
• Hairband Headphones: A modern variation, combining headbands with built-in speakers, allowing for comfortable listening to music while engaging in activities or resting.

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, headbands carry significant meanings or are part of traditional attire. For example, in Native American cultures, headbands are often used in ceremonial dress, adorned with feathers and beads to signify cultural heritage and status. In Japan, hachimaki (a type of headband) is worn as a symbol of perseverance, effort, and courage, especially during festivals, sports, or study.

Fashion Trends

Headbands have seen various peaks in fashion trends throughout the 20th and 21st centuries. In the 1920s, flapper girls wore headbands across their forehead with a feather or jewel to accentuate their hairstyles. The 1960s and 1970s saw a resurgence in headbands as part of the hippie movement, with wide, colorful headbands that symbolized peace and love. In recent years, headbands have returned as a popular accessory in fashion, with both vintage and modern styles being embraced.

Practical Uses

Beyond fashion, headbands serve practical uses. In sports and exercise, they prevent sweat from dripping into the eyes and keep hair out of the face. In healthcare, headbands are used to secure protective equipment, such as face shields or masks, especially important during health crises.

See Also

• Hair accessory
• Fashion accessory
• Sportswear (activewear)