Best Headbands for Thick and Curly Hair: Styles That Actually Stay Put (and Look Amazing)
Let's be honest about something. If you have thick or curly hair, your relationship with headbands has probably been complicated. You buy one. You love how it looks for about twelve minutes. Then it starts sliding backward. You push it forward. It slides again. You adjust it one more time, get annoyed, and toss it in a drawer where it lives with all the other headbands that promised to stay put and didn't.
It's not your hair's fault. It's the headband's fault. Most headbands are designed for fine, straight hair — the kind that lies flat and doesn't fight back. When you have volume, texture, and curl pattern working against a thin strip of plastic or fabric, the headband loses every time. But that doesn't mean you can't wear headbands. It means you need the right ones.
Shop All Headbands at JuJu Loves $58-$78
After testing every headband style we carry on thick and curly hair, the answer is overwhelmingly clear: wide knotted headbands are the single best style for thick and curly hair. The width distributes pressure so nothing digs in. The knot adds grip and visual weight that balances with your volume. And the fabric construction moves with your hair instead of fighting against it. Here are 13 headbands that actually work — all between $58-$78.
Quick Picks: Best Headbands for Thick and Curly Hair
Best for everyday wear: Tufted Knotted Headband — $58 — padded, wide, stays put all day
Best for adding texture: Pink Raffia Knotted Headband — $58 — natural raffia grips curly hair beautifully
Best for sparkle: Floral Knotted Crystal Headband — $78 — crystal detail catches light against dark curls
Best in multiple colors: Gingham Rhinestone Knotted Headband — $78 — comes in black, pink, blue, and orange
Best for weddings: Blue Pearl Crystal Headband — $78 — pearl and crystal detail, event-ready
Best statement piece: Watercolor Knotted Headband — $78 — artistic, unique, conversation-starting
Most affordable: Tan Heart Headband — $58 — sweet gold heart detail on a comfortable wide band
Why Most Headbands Don't Work on Thick and Curly Hair
Before we get into the styles that DO work, it helps to understand why so many don't. Thick and curly hair creates three specific challenges that cheap or narrow headbands simply can't handle.
Volume pushes headbands out. Curly hair has natural lift and body that creates outward pressure against any headband sitting on top of it. Thin, rigid headbands can't resist that pressure, so they slowly migrate backward until they're sitting uselessly on the crown of your head or falling off entirely.
Texture creates less friction with smooth surfaces. Curly hair doesn't lie flat against smooth plastic or metal the way straight hair does. There's less surface contact, which means less grip. This is why slippery satin or thin plastic headbands slide off curly hair almost immediately — they have nothing to hold onto.
Weight distribution matters more. On fine hair, a narrow headband distributes its pressure across a small area and that's fine because there's not much resistance. On thick hair, that same narrow pressure point creates discomfort, headaches, and denting. You need wider headbands that spread the pressure across a larger area of your head.
The solution to all three problems is the same: wide, fabric-based headbands with texture. And the style that delivers all of that most consistently is the knotted headband. That's why our collection leans so heavily into knotted styles — they're the ones our customers with thick and curly hair come back for again and again.
The Knotted Headband: Why It's the Best Style for Thick Hair
The knotted headband solves every thick-hair headband problem at once. The wide fabric band distributes pressure comfortably. The knot at the top adds a focal point that sits beautifully on top of voluminous hair (where it would look lost on flat hair — this is a style that was MADE for volume). And the fabric construction creates natural grip against textured hair. Here are our best knotted styles, from everyday basics to statement pieces.
Tufted Knotted Headband
SHOP Tufted Knotted Headband — $58
The Tufted Knotted Headband ($58) is our top recommendation for thick and curly hair, full stop. The tufted padding adds cushioning that eliminates headband headaches, and the extra width means it grips more of your hair without digging in. The tan and black colorway is neutral enough for daily wear and professional enough for work. If you've sworn off headbands because of discomfort, this is the one to try. The padding changes everything.
Pink Raffia Knotted Headband
SHOP Pink Raffia Knotted Headband — $58
The Pink Raffia Knotted Headband ($58) is a secret weapon for curly hair. The natural raffia texture creates grip that synthetic materials can't match — it holds onto textured hair in a way that feels secure without pulling. The woven raffia also adds a beautiful organic quality that pairs naturally with curly hair's own texture. Think of it as texture meeting texture. It's available in pink and also comes in a tan version with heart detail ($58) if you prefer a neutral.
Watercolor Knotted Headband
SHOP Watercolor Knotted Headband — $78
The Watercolor Knotted Headband ($78) is art for your hair. The blue and pink watercolor pattern is unique — no two headbands look exactly alike, which gives it a one-of-a-kind quality that matches the individuality of curly hair. The wide knotted style stays secure on thick hair while the artistic pattern becomes a genuine focal point of your outfit. This is the headband for the woman who wants people to notice her accessories and ask where she got them. For more styling ideas with artistic accessories, see our guide on how to wear headbands.
Tan Heart Headband
The Tan Heart Headband ($58) adds a touch of gold heart detailing to a comfortable wide band in a neutral tan color. The hearts are subtle enough for everyday wear but add personality that a plain headband doesn't have. The wide band style works beautifully on thick hair — the neutral tan virtually disappears into most hair colors while the gold hearts catch light. If you love heart jewelry and headbands equally, this piece brings them together.
Red Gold Star Knotted Headband
SHOP Red Gold Star Knotted Headband — $78
The Red Gold Star Knotted Headband ($78) is for the woman who wants her headband to make a statement. The red fabric with gold star detail is bold, confident, and impossible to ignore — exactly the kind of energy that matches big, beautiful curly hair. This headband doesn't try to blend in. It shows up. If your hair is the first thing people notice about you, this headband says "good — I want you to look." Pairs beautifully with simple gold earrings like our statement earring collection.
Red Pink Sequin Striped Headband
SHOP Red Pink Sequin Striped Headband — $78
The Red Pink Sequin Striped Headband ($78) brings texture and sparkle together. The sequin detail catches light from every angle, which looks especially striking against dark curly hair where the contrast is strongest. The striped pattern adds visual interest without being overwhelming, and the wide band stays comfortable on thick hair all day. This is a perfect option for events, nights out, or any time you want your hair accessories to carry some glamour. Check our wedding headband guide for more event-ready styling tips.
Gingham Headbands: One Pattern, Four Colors, Maximum Grip
The gingham rhinestone collection deserves its own section because it's the most versatile single style in our headband lineup for thick hair. Same comfortable knotted shape, same rhinestone sparkle, four completely different color options.
SHOP Gingham Rhinestone Headband — $78 each
The Gingham Rhinestone Knotted Headband ($78) comes in black, pink, blue, and orange. The gingham pattern reads as classic and polished while the rhinestone detail adds just enough sparkle to make it feel special. On curly hair, the fabric knotted construction provides the grip you need, and the wide shape balances beautifully with volume. The black version is the most versatile — it works with literally everything. The orange and blue are bold enough to turn a simple outfit into something intentional. Having one in a neutral and one in a color gives you a headband rotation that covers every mood.
Embellished Headbands That Work on Thick Hair
Knotted headbands aren't the only style that works on thick and curly hair. Wider embellished headbands with pearl and crystal detail also provide enough width and weight to stay in place — the embellishments actually help because they add a subtle grip texture to the surface.
Blue Pearl Crystal Headband
SHOP Blue Pearl Crystal Headband — $78
The Blue Pearl Crystal Headband ($78) is the dressiest option in this lineup. The pearl and crystal embellishments create a headband that's elegant enough for weddings, galas, and formal events. On thick curly hair, the embellishments sit beautifully because your hair's volume provides the perfect backdrop — the pearls and crystals nestle into your curls rather than sitting flat on top. This is genuinely one of those accessories that looks BETTER on thick curly hair than on straight hair.
Black Pearl Crystal Headband
SHOP Black Pearl Crystal Headband — $78
The Black Pearl Crystal Headband ($78) is the same elegant pearl and crystal combination in a more versatile black base. If you want one embellished headband that works for both special occasions and dressed-up everyday looks, black is the safer bet. The pearl detail reads as sophisticated in any setting, and the crystal accents catch light in a way that's noticeable but not over the top. This is the embellished headband you reach for when you want to look polished with minimal effort.
Coral Pearl Crystal Knotted Headband
SHOP Coral Pearl Crystal Knotted Headband — $78
The Coral Pearl Crystal Knotted Headband ($78) gives you the best of both worlds — the grip and comfort of a knotted headband with the elegance of pearl and crystal embellishment. The coral color is warm, flattering on virtually every skin tone, and unique enough that you won't see it on anyone else. For warm-weather styling with this piece, check our spring headbands guide.
Floral Knotted Crystal Headband
SHOP Floral Knotted Crystal Headband — $78 (comes in 2 colors)
The Floral Knotted Crystal Headband ($78) combines a botanical floral pattern with crystal accents in a wide knotted shape that was practically designed for thick curly hair. The floral detail adds a garden-party quality that makes this headband feel both feminine and substantial. Available in two colorways, this is the headband for the woman who wants something beautiful, secure, and unique. The crystal detail against curly hair catches light in a way that's genuinely stunning — every time you move, there's a subtle sparkle woven into your curls.
Blue Striped Pearl Knotted Headband
SHOP Blue Striped Pearl Knotted Headband — $78
The Blue Striped Pearl Knotted Headband ($78) mixes preppy stripe pattern with pearl embellishment for a headband that's polished and playful at the same time. The knotted construction grips thick hair securely, while the pearl detail adds enough sophistication to wear this to work, brunch, or a professional setting without it feeling too casual. The blue stripe also pairs naturally with denim, navy, and white — your easiest wardrobe staples.
Green Gingham Beaded Floral Headband
SHOP Green Gingham Beaded Floral Headband — $78
The Green Gingham Beaded Floral Headband ($78) is the most unique piece in this collection. Green gingham with beaded floral detail creates a headband that feels handmade, artisan, and completely one-of-a-kind. On thick curly hair, this headband has a lush, garden-inspired quality — like flowers growing in a wild garden. It's the headband for the woman who curates her accessories the way she curates her bookshelves: with personality, intention, and a little bit of whimsy.
How to Keep a Headband in Place on Thick Curly Hair
Even with the right headband, technique matters. Here are the tips that make the biggest difference:
Place it further back than you think. On thick hair, the natural instinct is to push a headband forward, close to your hairline. But that's where your hair has the most volume and push-back power. Instead, position the headband slightly further back — about an inch behind your hairline — and let your curls fall forward naturally around it. This gives the headband more surface area to grip while creating a beautiful, effortless look with curls framing your face.
Don't fight your part. If you have a natural part, work with it. Place the headband so that the knot or focal point sits just off-center, following your natural hair direction. Fighting your part creates tension that pushes the headband out faster.
Use a light texturizing spray first. A quick mist of texturizing spray or dry shampoo on the area where the headband sits creates microscopic texture that helps the headband grip. This is especially helpful on second or third day curls that might be smoother or more weighed down.
Tuck the ends behind your ears. For maximum hold, make sure the ends of the headband sit securely behind your ears. On thick hair, there's a temptation to let the headband float above the ears because there's so much hair. Take an extra second to tuck the ends down — it makes a significant difference in how long the headband stays in place.
Choose fabric over plastic every time. For thick curly hair, fabric headbands outperform rigid plastic ones in every category — comfort, grip, style, and staying power. Every headband in this guide is fabric-based for exactly that reason. For a deeper dive into headband styling, check out our comprehensive guide on how to wear headbands in 2026.
Headband Pairings: Complete the Look
A headband opens up your face and draws attention upward, which means your earrings become the co-star of your look. Here are pairings that work beautifully:
Knotted headband + statement earrings: The wide knotted style frames your face and creates a visual stage for bold earrings. Try the Watercolor Headband with Gold Heart Floral Earrings ($98) for a botanical moment.
Embellished headband + simple gold studs: When your headband has crystal and pearl detail, let it shine and keep earrings minimal. The Blue Pearl Crystal Headband with Gold Butterfly Studs ($48) is effortlessly polished.
Neutral headband + bold necklace: The Tufted Knotted Headband in neutral tones lets a Filigree Heart Statement Necklace ($258) or Gold Butterfly Chain Necklace ($128) take center stage.
For more on how to balance accessories with headbands, see our guide on accessories that make any outfit look expensive.
Try Them On in Charleston
Headbands are one of those accessories that you really want to try on — especially if you have thick or curly hair and you're skeptical about whether they'll actually work for you. Our full headband collection is available at Maris DeHart, a curated boutique in downtown Charleston at 32 Vendue Range, Charleston, SC. Come in, try on every knotted headband we carry, and find the one that grips YOUR hair. Sometimes you have to feel it to believe it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headbands for Thick and Curly Hair
What type of headband stays in place on thick curly hair?
Wide knotted headbands made from fabric are the best option for thick curly hair. The width distributes pressure comfortably, the fabric creates natural grip against textured hair, and the knotted design adds weight that helps the headband stay in place. Avoid narrow plastic headbands — they'll slide off within minutes.
Why do headbands always slide off my curly hair?
Curly hair has natural volume and lift that pushes against headbands, and the texture doesn't create as much friction with smooth surfaces as straight hair does. The solution is choosing headbands with more width, more texture, and fabric construction that grips rather than slides. Knotted and padded styles stay put best.
Do headbands damage curly hair?
Properly fitting fabric headbands do not damage curly hair. The key is avoiding headbands that are too tight, too narrow, or have hard plastic teeth that can snag and break curls. Wide fabric headbands like the knotted styles in this guide sit gently on your hair without pulling, snagging, or creating breakage.
Can I wear embellished headbands with curly hair?
Absolutely — embellished headbands often look even better on curly hair than straight hair. Your curls create a textured backdrop that makes pearls, crystals, and beading pop. The Blue Pearl Crystal Headband ($78) and Floral Knotted Crystal Headband ($78) are especially beautiful against dark, voluminous curls.
How do I prevent headband headaches with thick hair?
Headband headaches come from too much pressure concentrated on a narrow area. Choose wider headbands (knotted or padded styles distribute pressure most evenly), position the headband slightly behind your hairline rather than pressing it into your forehead, and opt for fabric over rigid plastic. The Tufted Knotted Headband ($58) is our top recommendation for headache-free all-day wear.
What headbands work for 4C natural hair?
Wide fabric knotted headbands work well across all curl patterns including 4C. The knotted styles in this collection provide width and grip without pulling or compressing your hair's natural volume. The Pink Raffia Knotted Headband ($58) is especially good because the natural raffia texture creates grip against textured hair.
Are knotted headbands professional enough for work?
Yes. Knotted headbands read as intentional and polished in professional settings — they're a deliberate style choice, not a casual afterthought. Neutral tones like the Tufted Knotted Headband ($58) are the most office-appropriate, while the Gingham Rhinestone Headband in black ($78) adds a touch of personality that's still workplace-ready. For more on this topic, see our full guide to wearing headbands to work.
What's the best headband for second or third day curls?
Refresh days are actually the perfect headband days. When your curls have relaxed a bit and you want a quick, polished look without a full wash-and-style routine, a knotted headband transforms second-day hair into a deliberate style. The Watercolor Knotted Headband ($78) is especially good for this — the artistic pattern distracts from any frizz while the wide band controls volume at the crown.
Should I size up in headbands for thick hair?
Our headbands are designed to accommodate all hair volumes. The fabric-based knotted styles have natural flex that adjusts to your head and hair without needing specific sizing. If you're between sizes with rigid headbands from other brands, sizing up is usually more comfortable — but with fabric knotted headbands, one size genuinely works for most.
Can I gift a headband to someone with thick curly hair?
Headbands make excellent gifts for women with thick or curly hair, especially knotted styles that you know will actually work for their hair type. At $58-$78, they're an affordable, thoughtful gift. Pair one with a set of gold stud earrings ($48) for a complete hair-and-jewelry gift set under $130.
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