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Bella Hadid and Ashley Graham Taking a cue from the New York Fashion Week Fall/Winter 2018 runway, ’90s hair accessories are making a huge comeback. While Alexander Wang had models flaunting

slicked back tresses held in place with claw clips, Prabal Gurung brought the humble comb headband back into focus. Models like Bella Hadid and Ashley Graham wore a pulled back ponytail

twisted in a knot, with a stretch headband to give a sleek finish. Often called accordion headband, it is reminiscent of school days and an affordable option to keep strands off the face. 

Recently, model Gigi Hadid teamed it up with her black turtleneck top, Fendi monogrammed bomber and skinny jeans as she headed to the airport. Back in 2013, Amy Adams styled it with a black

dress for the premiere of _American Hustle_. And it’s not just women who are opting for the comb headband. Aamir Khan, who has been sporting long locks lately, uses it to hold back his mane.

Experts tell us why this retro accessory has become chic again. NON-FUUSY LOOK Comb headbands were a rage in the ’90s, but they were also seen on Helmut Lang’s runway for his Fall 2014

show. Models showcased slicked back ponytails with this accessory. Designer Amy Billimoria feels it gives a classic non-fussy hair front yet creates ripples to give a style, which is why

it’s a popular unisex trend. “Rock this look with loose tresses over floral summer dresses or if you have short hair, try it in a slicked back effect with denims and a white shirt. It works

best with casual wear but could also be experimented while clubbing or for a luxe resort vibe.” USE SOME STYLING PRODUCTS This type of a headband is quite functional, says Sneha Daftary,

owner and creative head Vous Salon and co-founder of SOVA. “It’s ideal for office wear. However, those with a round-shaped face should avoid it as it takes too much hair off your face. If

you want a more defined front, use a little mousse or gel which helps it stay in place. A light hairspray can also do the trick. This works best if you leave your hair loose and do soft

waves at the back,” she adds. UNISEX APPEAL The appeal of the comb headband is that it can be paired to create an endless number of styles, right from creating an updo to a braid or a

ponytail. Men, too, can sport this — whether it’s David Beckham who, in the late ’90s, made ‘metrosexual’ cool or Zayn Malik, who was seen flaunting it in 2014. Jay Kishan Pawar, assistant

manager barber, Truefitt & Hill salon explains, “The boy band look which became a rage due to Backstreet Boys and the likes is responsible for the long hair heartthrob look. Men are more

conscious about their appearance today and are willing to spend more time grooming. A ribbed metal hairband is best for a laid back summer look. A knit bandana also works well with a long

locks style. Avoid excess wetting and gelling off the hair, instead blow dry it and avoid split ends.” EFFORTLESS STYLE These hair accessories make for a quick styling tool and can be worn

for both day and night functions. “The main draw of the comb headband is that it’s easy to wear and creates an effortless style,” says designer Nishka Lulla. She adds, “It can be pulled off

for the night too. Opt for a jewelled hairband or one with butterfly, star or flower motifs. This works more for a Western look but can also be carried off with Indo-Western outfits.”