35 Unique Hairstyles with Ribbon: From Simple to Elegant Looks for Long and Short Hair

Ribbons have long been a favorite accessory for adding a whimsical, feminine touch to hairstyles. Whether you’re looking for an aesthetic look for a casual day or a formal style for a special occasion, ribbons offer versatility. This article explores 35 creative hairstyles with ribbon, each featuring unique ways to incorporate this accessory, whether for short or long hair, curly or straight. From sporty gameday styles to soft wedding looks, there’s something for everyone.

Braided Ribbon Crown

The braided ribbon crown is an elegant and aesthetic style perfect for weddings or formal events. This hairstyle weaves soft, satin ribbons through your hair in a braid style that wraps around the head, creating a halo effect. It’s a great choice for curly hair or long hair and flatters those with oval or heart-shaped faces. Soft pastel ribbons can enhance blue or green eyes, while metallic ribbons add sparkle for evening events.

To create this style, start by parting your hair in the center and sectioning it for braids. You’ll need a ribbon about twice the length of your hair to ensure it integrates smoothly. Attach the ribbon to the beginning of your braid using a small clip, and braid it tightly across the head. Secure with bobby pins, and finish with a light hairspray for hold. For maintenance, a smoothing shampoo like L’Oréal’s Extraordinary Oil Shampoo will keep your hair sleek and shiny.

Ribbon-Wrapped Ponytail

For an effortless yet stylish look, the ribbon-wrapped ponytail offers a cute and easy way to elevate your casual style. It’s perfect for busy days, school events, or even a football game. This look is especially ideal for those with medium length or shoulder length hair, and pairs well with round or square face shapes. Soft pastel-colored ribbons can enhance the hair length and add a playful touch, making it a great hairstyle for kids as well.

To achieve this look, pull your hair back into a high or low ponytail. Take a long ribbon and wrap it around the base of the ponytail, securing it with a knot or bow. You can also add a scrunchie for extra volume. A texturizing spray can help maintain the volume, and a leave-in conditioner like Pantene’s Pro-V Miracle Rescue will keep your strands smooth and frizz-free.

Ribbon and Fishtail Braids

The fishtail braid becomes a show-stopping style when paired with a delicate ribbon, especially for a gameday or hoco event. This braided look adds a bit of flair for sports events or casual outings. Those with long hair or curly hair will find this style perfect, as the texture enhances the intricate braiding pattern. A fishtail braid combined with a ribbon is ideal for heart-shaped faces and bright eye colors like blue or hazel.

To style, divide your hair into two sections for the fishtail braid. Starting from the nape of your neck, weave a ribbon through the sections of hair, continuing down the length of the braid. Secure with a clear elastic and finish with a bow at the bottom. Use a strong-hold hairspray like Garnier Fructis Style Control to keep the braid in place, especially for an active day out.

Half Up, Half Down with Ribbon

The half up, half down look with a ribbon is a simple yet stunning way to wear your hair for a date night or wedding. It’s a romantic style that works well for curly hair or straight hair, especially for those with medium length or shoulder length hair. This style suits oval or heart-shaped faces, and a silk ribbon can add a touch of luxury that pairs well with soft makeup and romantic dresses.

To create this look, pull the top half of your hair into a loose updo and secure it with a ribbon in a bow. The bottom half can be left to fall naturally or curled for added texture. A curling iron and a heat protectant spray, like TRESemmé Thermal Creations, are essential tools for creating soft, romantic curls. Finish with a light shine spray for an elegant look that lasts all day.

Ribbon-Wrapped Bun

Perfect for formal occasions like a wedding or Hoco, the ribbon-wrapped bun adds a graceful, polished touch. It’s a cute and aesthetic choice for those with long hair, and it works beautifully on straight or curly hair. This style suits oval faces best and can be enhanced with ribbons in jewel tones, which complement darker eye colors.

To style this, gather your hair into a high or low bun. Choose a ribbon that complements your outfit, and wrap it around the base of the bun. Secure the ribbon with bobby pins, and finish with a light mist of hairspray. Use a smoothing serum like John Frieda Frizz Ease to tame flyaways and keep the bun sleek and smooth throughout the day.

Twisted Ribbon Updo

For a chic and playful look, the twisted ribbon updo is a fun and fashionable choice, especially for a volleyball or softball game. This style works well on medium length hair and is a great option for adding a pop of color to your look. The twisted updo pairs well with athletic events and casual outings, and is flattering on round and square face shapes.

To create this style, twist sections of hair upward and secure them with bobby pins. Weave a colorful ribbon through the twists for added texture and dimension. A flexible hold hairspray, like Aussie Mega, can help keep the twists in place, even during high-energy activities.

Ribbon-Wrapped Cornrows

A Mexican-inspired hairstyle, ribbon-wrapped cornrows offer a vibrant, cultural touch to a traditional style. This look is ideal for short hair or braided short hair, making it a bold choice for those with curly or textured hair. The addition of ribbons in bright colors complements those with darker eye colors and is perfect for festive events or school spirit days.

To create this look, have your hair cornrowed as usual, but weave a ribbon through each braid. Bright colors like red, yellow, or blue can make the style pop. Regular maintenance with a hydrating shampoo like SheaMoisture’s Coconut & Hibiscus Curl & Shine will help keep your hair healthy and moisturized.

Milkmaid Braid with Ribbon

The milkmaid braid paired with a ribbon is a timeless style that gives off a soft, bohemian vibe. It’s ideal for outdoor events like festivals or casual soccer matches, especially for those with long hair. This style works well for heart-shaped or round faces and can be paired with natural makeup and flowy outfits for an effortless look.

To create this look, braid your hair into two long braids and wrap them over the top of your head, securing them with bobby pins. Weave a delicate ribbon through the braids for added texture. Finish with a light-hold hairspray to keep the braids in place all day. For a more defined braid, use a texturizing mousse like Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Curl Boosting Mousse.

Dutch Braids with Ribbon

Dutch braids become even more stylish with the addition of ribbons. This versatile look is perfect for gameday or softball tournaments, giving a sporty yet feminine touch. Dutch braids suit all hair lengths and are especially great for keeping long hair in check during active sports. The contrasting ribbon colors make this style pop, especially when paired with team uniforms.

To create the look, braid your hair into two Dutch braids starting from the crown. As you braid, weave a ribbon into each braid for added style. Finish with a clear elastic and a bow at the end. Use a lightweight gel like Eco Styler Gel to keep flyaways in place during sports activities.

Ribbon Accent in Locs

Locs with a ribbon accent offer a unique and beautiful way to add flair to this iconic style. This look works well for shoulder length or long hair and is ideal for anyone looking to add a personalized touch to their locs. The ribbon accent can be woven through a few locs, making it a subtle yet stunning detail. This style is perfect for casual events like a day out or a football game.

To achieve this style, choose a satin or silk ribbon in a complementary color to your locs. Weave it through selected locs, and secure the ends with small hair ties. A good loc gel like Cantu’s Shea Butter Twist & Lock Gel will help maintain the style and keep the locs looking fresh.

Ribbon-Wrapped Twists

Ribbon-wrapped twists are a fun and versatile style that adds a pop of color to your hair. This look is perfect for kids, school events, or casual outings. It works well for curly hair or braided short hair and suits round or oval faces. Bright, bold ribbons can bring out green or hazel eyes, making it a playful option for any day out.

To create this style, divide your hair into sections and twist each one, incorporating a ribbon as you go. Secure the twists with small elastics or clips at the ends, and finish with a shine spray. To maintain this look, use a leave-in conditioner like Cantu’s Shea Butter Conditioning Mist, which keeps the twists smooth and moisturized throughout the day.

Box Braids with Ribbon Accents

Adding ribbons to box braids is a modern twist on a classic style. This hairstyle is perfect for a special event like a wedding or hoco, especially for those with long hair. The ribbons can be woven through select braids to create a subtle, elegant accent that complements darker hair tones and warmer skin tones.

To style this look, simply weave a satin or silk ribbon through the individual braids as you go, securing the ends with small elastics. For a glossy finish, apply an oil mist like OGX Renewing Argan Oil. This will keep the braids looking fresh and smooth, while the ribbons add a stylish twist.

Ribbon-Wrapped Bantu Knots

The bold look of Bantu knots becomes even more striking with ribbon accents. This style is ideal for sports events like a volleyball or softball game and works well for those with short hair or curly hair. The knots give the face a lifted look, making it flattering for square or heart-shaped faces. Bright ribbons can add fun pops of color, perfect for showing team spirit or just having fun with fashion.

To style, twist sections of hair into small buns or knots, and secure each with a ribbon. A good moisturizing gel like Eco Styler Olive Oil Gel can help hold the knots in place, while the ribbon adds a playful touch. Maintain the look by using a lightweight oil like SheaMoisture Coconut Oil to keep the scalp nourished and the style intact.

Ribbon Bow with Half-Up Ponytail

The half up half down look gets an adorable upgrade with a large ribbon bow. This cute style works for kids or adults alike and is perfect for everyday wear, whether you’re heading to school or attending a casual event like a gameday. It suits all hair lengths, but works especially well for medium length hair, and flatters oval or round faces.

To achieve this look, pull the top half of your hair into a ponytail and secure it with a hair tie. Then, tie a large ribbon into a bow around the base of the ponytail. A curling iron can be used to add soft waves to the rest of the hair for a more polished look. Use a heat protectant like CHI 44 Iron Guard to protect your strands from heat damage while creating this style.

Milkmaid Braid with Ribbon Clips

For a boho-chic style, add some clips with ribbons to a milkmaid braid. This look is ideal for long hair and works beautifully for music festivals or outdoor events like picnics. It suits oval or heart-shaped faces, and the use of delicate ribbon clips adds a feminine and romantic touch that’s perfect for laid-back days.

To create this style, braid your hair into two long braids, wrap them over the top of your head, and secure with bobby pins. Attach small clips with attached ribbons for a soft, pretty look. A light-hold spray, like Herbal Essences Set Me Up, will help keep everything in place without feeling stiff.

Halo Braid with Ribbon Weaving

The halo braid is a regal style that can be made even more magical by weaving in ribbons. It’s perfect for formal occasions like weddings, and it suits long hair or shoulder length hair. This style flatters oval and round faces, and soft ribbons in pastel colors can complement brown or hazel eyes.

To achieve this look, braid your hair into a crown-like braid around your head, starting from one ear and wrapping around to the other. Weave a ribbon into the braid as you go, securing with small clips or bobby pins. A strong-hold hairspray like L’Oréal Elnett Satin is great for keeping this elegant style in place throughout the day.

Ribbon-Wrapped Loc Ponytail

For those with locs, a ribbon-wrapped ponytail offers a stylish and modern way to wear your hair. This look works for medium length or long hair, and it’s ideal for casual outings, sports events, or even a day at the beach. It suits square or oval face shapes, and brightly colored ribbons can add a playful vibe that enhances any casual outfit.

To create this style, gather your locs into a high ponytail, and wrap a long ribbon around the base, securing it with a knot or bow. For a sleek finish, use a light edge control like Mielle Organics Honey & Ginger to smooth the hairline. A shine spray can also help keep your locs looking glossy and healthy.

Braided Ribbon Hairband

For a quick and easy look, try a braided ribbon hairband. This style is perfect for busy mornings or school days when you want something simple yet stylish. It’s great for short hair or medium length hair, and works well for those with round or square face shapes.

To create this look, part your hair down the middle and braid two small sections at the front of your hair. Weave a ribbon into each braid and secure them at the back of your head with bobby pins or a small elastic. This style can be completed in minutes and requires minimal maintenance—just a bit of shine spray to keep your hair looking sleek and healthy.

Low Bun with Ribbon Ties

A low bun tied with ribbons is a sophisticated yet relaxed style that works for both formal and casual settings. This style is ideal for a wedding or a casual football game, making it versatile for different occasions. It works for those with long hair or medium length hair, and it flatters oval or heart-shaped faces

To style, pull your hair back into a low bun and wrap a ribbon around the base. Secure it with bobby pins and tie the ribbon into a bow. For extra hold, use a strong-hold hairspray like Bed Head by TIGI Hard Head, and add a smoothing serum to keep your hair sleek and frizz-free.

Ribbon-Wrapped Braid with Clips

A ribbon-wrapped braid with decorative clips adds a playful yet chic touch to your everyday look. This style works well for long hair or shoulder length hair, and is perfect for a casual day out or even a softball game. The addition of ribbon and clips can enhance straight or wavy hair, making it a fun option for many different occasions.

To style, braid your hair into a single plait down the back and weave a ribbon through it, securing it with small, decorative clips. A flexible hold hairspray like Aussie Sprunch Hairspray will keep the style intact, while the clips add a touch of personality.

Incorporating ribbons into your hairstyles offers endless creative possibilities, from braids to buns and everything in between. Whether you’re heading to a football game or a formal event, ribbons can add a touch of charm and personality. Have fun experimenting with different styles, and don’t forget to share your favorite ribbon hairstyles in the comments! We’d love to see how you incorporate ribbons into your everyday look.