I don’t think rubber bands get the love they deserve. They cost practically nothing and let you create a bunch of different hairstyles. In this article, I will tip my hat to some of the greatest rubber band hairstyles of all time.
Rubber band hairstyles are a trend that is not going to go away anytime soon. The best part about these hairstyles is that they are super easy to do and there are so many ways to do them.
Rubber band hairstyles have been around since the medieval period. As rubber bands became more easily accessible to the mass with time, the popularity of rubber band hairstyles grew exponentially.
Rubber bands are available in all sizes, shapes, and colors. If you want to try something new and don’t want to spend hours painstakingly styling every single strand on your head, rubber band hairstyles could be the way to go.
For the ease of your understanding and convenience, I have divided rubber band hairstyles into 3 categories based on hair length and texture.
Keep scrolling to find out more!
Contents
0.1 What Makes Rubber Band Hairstyles So Popular?0.2 How Do You Style Your Hair with Rubber Bands?0.3 Can Rubber Bands Potentially Damage Your Hair?1 10 Classy Rubber Band Hairstyles for Long Hair1.0.1 Criss-cross Hairstyle1.0.2 Beauty and the Beast Ponytail1.0.3 A Quick Bun1.0.4 Easy Half-up Hairstyle1.0.5 5-minute Twist1.0.6 Bubble Ponytail1.0.7 Dutch Braid Bun1.0.8 Bow Hairdo1.0.9 Updo with Bangs1.0.10 Low-side Bun1.1 Prettiest Rubber Band Hairstyles for Short Hair1.1.1 Half Twist1.1.2 Chignon Bun1.1.3 Micro Bun1.1.4 Space Buns1.1.5 Simple Ponytail for Short Hair1.1.6 Side Braids1.1.7 Half Low Bun1.1.8 Mohawk Braid1.1.9 Front Twist1.1.10 Hair Nub1.2 Stunning Rubber Band Hairstyles for Natural Hair/ Black Hair1.2.1 Side Part Rubber Band Hairstyle1.2.2 Sleek Half-up Ponytail1.2.3 Double Ponytails1.2.4 Elegant Updo1.2.5 Sleek Buns with Zig-zag Patterns1.2.6 Sleek Ponytail with Side Criss-cross Patterns1.2.7 Rubber Band Pigtail1.2.8 Glamorous Updo1.2.9 Butterfly Ponytail1.2.10 Rubber Band Hairstyles for Toddlers1.3 In ConclusionWhat Makes Rubber Band Hairstyles So Popular?
Rubber band hairstyles are supremely versatile and creative because they can be used in numerous ways. You can achieve an effortlessly stylish look with basic rubber band hairstyles like a low ponytail, high ponytail, or even a bun.
The best thing about these classic rubber band hairstyles is that they don’t require any additional hair accessories or clips to complete the look.
That said, you can definitely use your different hair accessories to elevate your hairstyle.
How Do You Style Your Hair with Rubber Bands?
One of the easiest ways to style hair with rubber bands is a ponytail. To create this look, take one rubber band and place it over your head from ear to ear. Then twist both sections of hair into a ponytail and secure it with another rubber band.
Another way to use rubber bands is for a bun or updo hairstyle. First, tie your hair into a low ponytail so that you have enough length for the bun or updo.
Then take two sections of hair and loop them around each other to form the bun or updo shape you desire before securing with another rubber band at the base of the bun or updo. As simple as that!
Can Rubber Bands Potentially Damage Your Hair?
Rubber bands are a great way to tie up your hair and achieve a neat and classy look.
Sadly, however, there are some downsides to using them. For one, they can cause breakage in your hair when you use them too often.
Rubber bands can also be bad for your hair because they have the tendency to pull and tug at the strands which can result in breakage of the hair.
That being said, you shouldn’t have to worry about any of these issues as long as you are using the rubber bands properly.
Getting the rubber band out of the hair is not something you should rush, EVER! Instead, follow the tips below to get the rubber band out of your hair without causing hair damage –
Roll it down slowly and gently all the way to the bottom instead of yanking it out from the top. Yanking achieves nothing but pain and the loss of a handful of precious hair. So, take your time to roll the band as low as you can and then pull it out. It’s much easier to take a rubber band off when your hair isn’t rough and frizzy. People with natural hair often find the rubber band inextricably intertwined with their locks, making it impossible to remove the elastic band without sacrificing a few strands in the process.In a situation as tricky as this one, you can try lubricating the strands snarled around the elastic. Any essential oil of your choice or a leave-in conditioner should do the trick. Greasing the hair will quickly create enough slip for the elastic to loosen its grip.
If you don’t have immediate access to any greasing agent, try dabbing some water on the hair strands wrapped around the rubber band. Then use a T-pin or seam ribber to pull the rubber band away from the hair. If you are running late for a meeting or date the rubber band is just refusing to come out, no matter how much grease you apply, just take a scissor and chop the damn band off, lady! If the elastic is wrapped around hair multiple times, you got to be extra careful with that pair of scissors.Don’t attempt to cut the entire band in one go. Instead, sever the top layer first with the tip of the scissor, then the next layer, and so on. Gently unwind the elastic as you go until it smoothly comes off. You
can use a nail clipper as well instead of a scissor for this.
Now that we have covered the basics, let’s get down to the business.
10 Classy Rubber Band Hairstyles for Long Hair
For ladies with long hair, using a rubber band is definitely one of the best ways to keep the strands out of your face.
From high and low ponytails, messy buns, to more elaborate styles that involve twisting and tying your hair – you are only limited by your imagination. Here are some of my all-time favorite long hairstyles that can be easily recreated with rubber bands –
Criss-cross Hairstyle
The criss-cross hairstyle is one of the most popular rubber band hairstyles because it is simple to do and looks great with both straight/curly long hair.
There are a few ways you can do this style at home, depending on what type of look you want to achieve. If you want to use a hair tie, then make sure that your ponytail is low enough so that the end of the ponytail will be close to your neck when your hair is tied up.
The higher the ponytail, the more volume in your criss-cross hairstyle. You might also want to use a hair paint wax to slick down the sections of your hair for easy, effortless styling and minimal damage.
Beauty and the Beast Ponytail
Suitable for weddings, dates, work, as well as girl’s day out, the charming, romantic hairstyle is directly inspired by Belle’s hairstyle in Beauty and the Beast. You can recreate the look in a jiffy by tying a half up first.
Then tie another one right below. Run the top ponytail through it which would create a braid. Tie the braid with your choice of ribbon and you are all set!
A Quick Bun
Don’t have the time or patience to do a faux braid? Afraid not! This beautiful boho hairstyle comes together in just a minute. All you have to do is gently comb your hair, gather up all the strands into a high ponytail.
Then carefully twist it clockwise and tie it up with a rubber band. You can also use bobby pins to keep the bun snug, if needed. This hairstyle is a life-saver for girls with long hair and straight hair.
Easy Half-up Hairstyle
Half up is by far one of the easiest rubber band hairstyles for long hair. The thing I love the most about it is how versatile it can be if you know what you are doing. For this particular hairstyle, you need to tie the top section of your hair into a high ponytail.
Let the bottom half flow freely. Add some panache with micro braids secured with rubber bands on both sides. It’s the perfect summer hairstyle for women with colored wavy or curly locks.
5-minute Twist
This simple and sophisticated 5-minute twist will instantly make you feel relaxed by keeping your hair away from your face. To recreate this summer-perfect hairdo, start by dividing your hair into 3 equal sections and then style the middle part into a low ponytail.
Next up, take any one of the remaining sections, twist, and roll it up around the low ponytail. Secure the twist with a rubber band. Repeat the same process on the other side. That’s pretty much it!
Bubble Ponytail
Here’s another interesting take on the classic ponytail, suitable for just about any occasion, be it a party or a picnic with the family. This hairstyle requires you to gather your hair into a simple ponytail and then create multiple sections across the ponytail with rubber bands.
Place the bands every 1-2 inches down the length of your hair and tug these sections gently at the sides to create a bubble-like shape.
The hairdo naturally creates a great deal of volume, making it perfect for breathing some life into flat and limp tresses.
Dutch Braid Bun
If you seek a more chic and feminine look that will make your hairdo stand out in a crowd, this one’s worth the hard work. To recreate this timeless look, section the front of your hair and do a dutch braid.
Secure the braid with the good old rubber band, preferably of a color that will blend with the color of your hair for a more seamless look. Take it up a notch by pulling the braid into a high ponytail.
Bow Hairdo
This hairdo takes a bit of practice and precision to style but the outcome is absolutely worth going the extra mile for. Start by pulling your hair into a ponytail with a rubber band.
Then split the ponytail and loop the sections to create a bow-like shape with more elastic bands. If you are looking to add more volume and definition to your hair, this hairdo is worth a shot.
Updo with Bangs
Updo with bangs is a versatile hairdo that you can wear to both family get-togethers and office. The style has excellent face-framing abilities, making it a great option for women who want to draw the focus away from their large foreheads.
Unlock this look by creating a simple top bun. Brush the bangs slightly and leave them wavy. Use a light hold hair spray to set your style in place. For a more refined look, take your time perfecting the bun. It shouldn’t be too messy.
Low-side Bun
It’s amazing how you can switch up your look in a snap simply by tying your bun in different ways. If you are enamored by this slightly off-center bun look, just like we are, go ahead and recreate it. Secure the low side-bun with a couple of rubber bands just below your ear.
To achieve a sleek and polished look, make sure to pull the bun tightly, leaving no wispy strands out. Use a strong-old spray to lock your style and get that unmistakable shine.
Prettiest Rubber Band Hairstyles for Short Hair
Short hairstyles with rubber bands are super cute, no doubt. But keeping the style in place can be really tricky. You might need additional accessories like a hairband and a bunch of bobby pins to prevent your short locks from falling out of the ponytail.
Women with super fine hair may have a harder time making the hair look fuller when securing the strands with a ponytail. But fret not, in this section, I will go over 10 ridiculously short hairstyles with a rubber band that will make your hair look perfect every single time. Scout’s honor!
Here goes 10 versatile rubber band hairstyles for short hair that are perfect for both special occasions and formal events –
Half Twist
Give your half-up hairstyle a bohemian twist with this hairstyle. It’s not messier than it has to be, making it suitable for wearing at all sorts of formal events. Follow these simple steps to steal the look – prep your hair with a texturizing spray (don’t skip this step if you have really thin hair).
Take two sections of your hair right above the ears and tie them with a rubber band. Next, take two more sections and pull them through the ponytail you just made.
Apply the same method on another two sections and there you have it! You may have to apply a light spritz of hairspray to set your style in place.
Chignon Bun
Were you under the assumption that rubber band hairstyles for short hair are limited to half up half downs? Well, they aren’t. Chignon buns are one of the most sophisticated ways to wear short hair. Chignon is essentially a low bun with mid-part hair.
Using a hair mousse will give you the characteristic sleek appearance of this updo. It’s a relatively low-maintenance hairstyle, hence, it’s perfect for the workplace. The best part is you don’t need copious amounts of hair for this style to work.
Micro Bun
Small bun, big impact. These oh-so-chic micro buns are an excellent summer hairstyle for women with super short hair. All you have to do to get the look is pull your hair into a low bun and secure it with a rubber band. The style blends seamlessly with just about any outfit. Pair it with large earrings and you’re all set!
Space Buns
Princess Leia-inspired hair buns are one of the quirkiest hairstyles you can ever try and it’s so worth it. This one is especially recommended for women with short and curly hair. Get this look by wrapping your hair into buns on both sides of your hair.
Secure them with rubber bands and bobby pins that match the color of your hair. If you have curly bangs, even better. Its face-framing qualities can highlight your best features.
Simple Ponytail for Short Hair
Simple, elegant, and versatile – you can never really go wrong with a classic ponytail, can you? Create this look on the fly by pulling up your crown hair into a ponytail. Keep it in place with, you guessed it right, a rubber band.
Whether you want to let your bangs loose or pull them into the ponytail should depend on what kind of look you are after. You can also curl your fringes to bring more contrast and depth to the hairdo.
Side Braids
Get the perfect hairstyle for special occasions by tying a cute braid on only one side of your hair or both sides and securing them with a rubber band. You can also create multiple braids and jazz them up with colorful clips and bobby pins for a chic girl-next-door look.
Half Low Bun
Easy to get and virtually zero maintenance – a messy half-bun could be your go-to hairstyles for days when you just want to do nothing but still want to look selfie-perfect. To get this look, simply pull the hair from the crown into a half up and twist it into a bun.
Secure it with elastic bands and let those wispy bangs flow freely. If your extra-fine hair is preventing you from getting that wavy texture that makes this look so coveted, use a texturizing spray.
Mohawk Braid
This drop-dead gorgeous hairstyle is the ultimate statement hairdo for girls with short hair. The braid sits right on the crown and runs all the way to the back of your head, adding a cool and edgy vibe to your hairstyle.
Since it keeps all the hair out of your face, it’s perfect for summer as well as the workplace. It does take a while to style but the extra work is absolutely worth it.
Front Twist
This cute and adorable look is a great choice for lounging, family get-together as well as weddings. If you are a bridesmaid with short hair and you don’t want to wear your hair down, here’s the solution for you. Start by prepping your hair with a dry shampoo. Focus especially on the roots.
Then divide the hair at the back of your crown into two sections and style them into a braid with elastic bands. Keep adding the hair gradually as you move towards your hairline. Secure the ends of the twist your bobby pins underneath your hair.
Hair Nub
It’s basically something you end up with when your hair is too short to be twisted into a proper bun. The hipster style is perfect for someone who wants to shake things up a bit.
It’s the ultimate zero-effect hairdo you can wear literally anywhere on any occasion. Pair it up with a casual outfit and a sunglass and you have this classy retro look that’s definitely going to stand out.
Stunning Rubber Band Hairstyles for Natural Hair/ Black Hair
Rubber band ponytails look amazing on natural hair. You can create all sorts of intricate braids with elastic bands on your thick and dense natural hair to change up your look. Just make sure the elastic you’re using is covered by some sort of fabric.
This will prevent the elastic from getting snarled around your locks. Below are 10 dazzling hairstyle ideas for natural hairstyles that can be achieved with elastic bands and a few other simple accessories.
Side Part Rubber Band Hairstyle
Edge up your hairstyle with this adorable yet ridiculously easy to create hairstyle. Having a hard time styling your 4b-4c curls with rubber bands? Try this updo.
Slick your hair with a hairspray or mousse if you start making the patterns. Use colorful rubber bands for the side patterns to keep the look girl-next-doorsy cute and casual.
Sleek Half-up Ponytail
Here comes another elegant take on the classic ponytail. Ideal for 9val and diamond-shaped faces, the sleek half-up ponytail draws focus to your cheekbones and eyes.
You need to leave some of your hair loose at the front for creating intricate criss-cross patterns to complement the high ponytail.
Don’t forget to finish off the look with a strong-hold spray and a shine spray to achieve the sheen and volume this updo is known for.
Double Ponytails
Flaunt the length and stunning volume of your hair with a simple double ponytail hairstyle. Perfect for special events like prom night as well as for regular school days, double ponytails are a great choice for teenagers.
Edge up the style with cool criss-cross patterns and you are good to go. The face-framing hairstyle has a major ‘90s vibe and it’s suitable for all hair lengths.
Elegant Updo
Up the glam quotient of a classic updo with a cool twist. To recreate this red carpet-worthy, you need to apply sectioning technique to form intricate patterns at the front, both sides, and back of your head.
The rubber band sections perfectly complement the simple bun and help to bring focus to your eyes and statement jewelry. Not sure how to style your long and curly manes for a party? Think no further.
Sleek Buns with Zig-zag Patterns
Looking for a fun rubber band hairstyle for kids and toddlers? How about sleek buns with an edgy zig-zag part in the middle? It will take you only a couple of minutes and a couple of multi-color rubber bands to whip up this hairdo.
It will keep the hair out of your girl’s face, therefore, is a great choice of hairstyle for summer, not just for the kids but for adults as well.
Sleek Ponytail with Side Criss-cross Patterns
I’d suggest choosing black elastic bands for the criss-cross patterns on the side to create a fresh, seamless look. Before you tie the ponytail, slick your hair with a styling gel to boost the shine and texture of your hair.
Don’t skip this step as it’s also going to make styling the hair much easier. Sleek ponytails with rubber band patterns on the side is a highly versatile hairdo that works fine on medium to long hair.
Rubber Band Pigtail
Pigtails are the way to go if you are not afraid of bold, experimental hairstyles and can fully commit to the process. The timeless hairdo is suitable for women of every age and face structure.
Get this look by creating a clear middle partition, then make diagonal sections secured with rubber bands.
Next up, tie your strands into two pigtails, combine them, and twist them down. It’s actually not that complicated in practice but it certainly takes patience to get the look right.
Glamorous Updo
Here’s another statement hairstyle you can easily create with rubber bands. For this look, you need to divide your hair into multiple sections, like you would do for box braids.
Then you need to skillfully combine and tie the sections to create the signature intricate pattern. It would add a stunning contrast to the sleek updo. Leave some of the curls loose on the sides or twist them into micro braids too for a more defined look.
Butterfly Ponytail
Here’s another bold and edgy hairdo that’s going to get you instantly noticed. The super creative and stylish long butterfly ponytail requires you to split and section your hair and tie the sections into a complex pattern that resembles a butterfly.
Although the hairdo is mostly worn on long hair, I don’t why it won’t work on shoulder-length hair.
Rubber Band Hairstyles for Toddlers
This adorable hairstyle is created using a handful of colorful rubber bands and hair clips. Start by wrapping the hair into buns on both sides, leave some of the locs out, form a triangle pattern on the crown and embellish the buns and locs with adorable clips.
It’s a cute back-to-school hairstyle that takes minutes to style and doesn’t require any upkeep.
In Conclusion
Rubber bands are the easiest way to keep your hair snug and stylish. It allows you to spice up your hairstyle in a plethora of ways, without needing any additional tools or accessories.
As long as you keep your hair well-conditioned, rubber band hairstyles work on every hair texture, from ultra-fine strands to 4C type curls.
So, be inspired from the hairstyles mentioned above, create any look you desire with rubber bands, and carry it with confidence.