Shocker! Kate Middleton Has Declared Headbands Fashionable Again

The Duchess of Cambridge is known for her impeccable style credentials, with outfits she has worn sometimes selling out in minutes and hairdressers frequently asked to recreate her hairstyle.

It's no wonder, then, that Kate's latest fashion accessory has got people talking, because it appears that this most stylish of princesses has decided to bring back the hairband.

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Often relegated to the closet of fashion regret alongside shoulder pads, latex scrunchies and shell suits, hairbands have definitely been branded a fashion no-no in the past – unless you're under 10, that is.

However, we have to admit we rather like this look on the Duchess. In fact, when the pictures showing Kate enjoying the International Air Tattoo in Gloucester first appeared, her flowing mane elegantly held back with a leopard print band, our first thought was – where can we get one?

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Far from looking old-fashioned, Kate's hairband actually looked sophisticated and pretty – plus it's perfect for stopping your hair flying around on a blustery summer's day, which is probably why the Duchess chose to wear one to an air show!

"Trends always come back around, and I love that Kate is trying something new with her style," says celebrity stylist Jamie Stevens. "It suits her, she's a very elegant woman and this looks cool but not incongruous on her."

HOW TO GET THE LOOK

Stevens​ advises, "The usual fashion rule applies – make a nod to the trend without wearing it exactly as it was the first time round. Also choose a print hairband, rather than velvet, to avoid looking too prim."

Session stylist Eugene Souleiman agrees that velvet is a no-no, saying we should also steer clear of "pastel or peachy" colors. "Metal looks very beautiful," he says.

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Souleiman​ also says you need to consider your hairstyle if you're thinking of wearing a hairband – they look great with long, one-length cuts, bobs and short haircuts with a long fringe, but old-fashioned with hairstyles that are too set, such as very structured curls.

"You don't have to be young to wear a hairband stylishly – just make sure the outfit you wear it with looks modern, and it suits any age," advises Souleiman​.