If you thought padded materials were dead since the dramatic 80’s, think again. They’re back – and they have a new target.

What Are They?
Padded shoulders, move aside! Padded headbands have come to take the throne of padding. This year at fashion week, headbands with never-before-seen amounts of poof and pomp descended the runway. As the style expert and resident fashion royal Elizabeth Holmes describes, they are meant to combine the best elements of hats with a headband – she even calls them “hatbands” (which is a way better name that everyone should make a thing immediately). Unlike hats, though, they can accessorize your hair instead of covering it!
How Are They Worn?
Well, the models at Fashion Week certainly give a lot of exemplary options to try. Keep your hair straight and sleek, let its waves run wild, nestle them into your curls, or pull your hair back and let the hatband steal the show! And according to their models, there’s nothing stopping you from pairing the head pads with some sleeve pads. So far, it seems like blazers and maxi dresses are their best friends.

Where To Shop For Them?
Thanks to Instagram, some brands have already become famous for their padded headbands. So far, Lele Sadoughi and Jennifer Behr are the two most well-known brands. They’ve made rounded, braided, and knotted versions of the trend to choose from, even styling them with extra decoration such as pearls and crystals. These brands are on the more expensive side, but ASOS, Amazon, Free People, and Urban Outfitters are all getting in on the action with more affordable options as well.