17 Hairstyles With Ribbon for Any Occasion
Hairstyles with ribbon can make a simple ponytail, braid, or bun look more put together in just a few minutes. You do not need a salon visit or a drawer full of hair accessories. One ribbon can change the whole look. Still, it is easy to feel unsure about where to tie it. A large bow may feel too much for work. A thin ribbon may slide out of smooth hair. You may also wonder which style works best for short hair, curls, or a special event. These ribbon hair ideas make it easier to use what you already have at home. From quick hair bow hairstyles to dressier looks, hairstyles with ribbon can work for almost any day. How to Pick the Right Ribbon for Your Hairstyle The ribbon you choose can change the whole feel of your hairstyle. A soft satin bow looks dressy and smooth. Velvet feels richer and works well for colder months, dinners, and formal outfits. Grosgrain ribbon has more grip, so it can be a better choice when satin keeps slipping. Thin ribbons work best when you want to weave color through a braid. Wide ribbons work better for large ponytail bows, low buns, and styles where you want the bow to stand out. For a simple low ponytail, start with a ribbon around 18 to 24 inches long. For a braid or ribbon-wrapped bun, use a longer piece around 36 to 48 inches. It is better to have extra length at first. You can always trim the ends later. A black velvet ribbon looks great with a low bun. A pastel satin ribbon can soften loose waves or a half-up style. Printed cotton ribbons are fun for casual days, while thin black satin has a clean, modern look. Ribbon Match Guide Look You Want Best Ribbon Choice Soft and romantic Satin or organza Neat and classic Grosgrain Dressy and rich Velvet Fun and playful Printed cotton Minimal and modern Thin black satin Side Braid With a Thin Ribbon Bring your hair over one shoulder and create a loose side braid. Tie a ribbon at the end, or weave it through the braid for extra color. For a different shape, try side-part braided hairstyles before tying a thin ribbon through the braid or around the end. This is one of the easiest ribbon hairstyles for long hair. Best for: Casual outfits, picnics, and summer daysHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Thin satin or grosgrainDifficulty: Easy Short Bob With a Side Ribbon Clip Short hair can wear ribbons too. Tie a small bow around a clip or barrette, then place it above one ear. Keep the bow small so it does not overpower your haircut. Best for: Short bobs, pixie cuts, and chin-length hairHair length: ShortRibbon type: Small satin, velvet, or grosgrain bowDifficulty: Easy Ribbon-Wrapped Ballet Bun Make a neat high bun, then wrap a slim ribbon around it once or twice. Tuck the ends under or let a small bow sit at the back. Pale pink, cream, burgundy, and black all work well for this look. Best for: Dinners, dance events, and polished outfitsHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Slim satin or velvetDifficulty: Medium Ribbon-Laced Corset Braid Create two small braids or ponytail sections close together. Lace ribbon between them in a crisscross pattern, like a corset. This takes more time, but it creates a standout style for photos or events. Best for: Parties, concerts, and special occasionsHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Thin satin or grosgrainDifficulty: Detailed Messy Bun With a Printed Ribbon Make a relaxed bun and leave a few pieces out around your face. Wrap a printed ribbon around the bun and tie it loosely. Gingham, floral, and striped ribbons make this style feel fun and relaxed. Best for: Summer days, coffee runs, and casual outfitsHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Cotton or printed ribbonDifficulty: Easy Low Bun With Long Ribbon Tails Make a low bun first, then wrap a ribbon around its base. Leave the ribbon ends long so they fall below the bun. This style feels soft and dressy without taking much time. Best for: Wedding guests, dinners, and formal eventsHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Satin or velvetDifficulty: Easy Loose Waves With a Ribbon Headband Use a long ribbon as a soft headband. Tie it around the crown of your head and leave the ends hanging at the back. This keeps hair away from your face without pulling it into a tight style. Best for: Beach days, brunch, and relaxed datesHair length: Short, medium, or longRibbon type: Satin, cotton, or organzaDifficulty: Easy High Ponytail With an Oversized Bow A high ponytail looks more playful with a large bow. Keep the ponytail smooth for a clean contrast, then tie a thick ribbon over the elastic. Velvet and wide satin ribbons work best here. Best for: Parties, dresses, and special photosHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Wide velvet or satinDifficulty: Easy Half-Up Top Knot With a Ribbon Take the top section of your hair and twist it into a small bun. Secure it with an elastic, then tie a ribbon around the base. This keeps hair off your face while leaving the rest down. Best for: Casual dates, concerts, and everyday wearHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: Satin or printed cottonDifficulty: Easy Half-Up Hair With a Satin Ribbon Pull the top half of your hair back and secure it with a small elastic. Tie a satin bow over the elastic so it covers the band. This style looks especially pretty with soft waves, curtain bangs, or face-framing layers. Best for: Date nights, lunches, and casual eventsHair length: Medium to longRibbon type: SatinDifficulty: Easy French Braid With Ribbon Woven In Add a thin ribbon as you create a French braid. You can use it as one of the braid sections or thread it through once the braid is finished. Choose a ribbon close to your hair color for a subtle style, or pick a bright shade for a playful look. … Read more