WFH Hairstyles
The COVID-19 pandemic is forcing millions around the globe to work remotely, and let’s just say there’s a new normal in town. Homebound workers are adapting by swapping power suits for yoga pants, cubicles for home offices (or the couch, TBH), and in-person meetings for endless video conferences.
Whatever your new setup is, you still want to look reasonably professional in front of colleagues and clients, if only from the waist up. The good news is, you don’t need to spend hours in front of the mirror to achieve a work-appropriate look that’s flattering, comfortable, and low-maintenance enough for a day packed with video calls. The right hairstyle can help you feel polished, professional, and presentable—even if you’re secretly wearing your coziest pajama pants.
The Hack
We’re about to let you in a secret that will transform your work-from-home beauty routine: headband braids. You’re welcome! These pre-braided wonders make you look like you carefully and skillfully braided your hair, but they take only a few seconds to slip on. Thanks to adjustable elastic bands, they’re comfortable and secure enough to wear the whole workday.
A neat, stylish braid can transform your look from “I woke up five minutes before this call” to “I’m a professional and I’ve got everything under control.” Headband braids frame your face beautifully, which is especially valuable when your face is the only part of you others can see. Plus, headband braids help keep your hair out of your face and discourage you from absently fiddling with it on Zoom calls.
Now that you’re in the know, here's some WFH style inspo for you:
The Low Ponytail
Ponytails are the plain Janes of hairstyles—until they get that makeover that blows everyone out of the water. A low, sleek ponytail is one of the easiest hairstyles out there, and a headband braid elevates it from boring to fashion-forward. Pro tip: this one is great for days when your hair is uncomfortably greasy or otherwise uncooperative.
The Basic Headband
Want to wear your hair loose and still look ready for anything? Headband braids are the answer. This go-to style is as quick and convenient as the headband you wore as a kid, only a hundred times more stylish and grown-up. Just like that childhood headband, your braid does double duty: it looks stylish and it holds your hair away from your face as you work.
The Low Bun
It only takes a second to twist your hair into a low bun, but you’ll look cool and competent from nine to five (or whatever hours you’re clocking these days). Add a little flair to this neat, professional look by choosing a pretty headband braid to go with it. It’s amazing how the right braid can turn the humble low bun into a sophisticated style choice.
The Braid-with-a-Braid
Two braids in one style! Pop on that headband braid, then gather your hair into a simple low braid. Even if you stick to the basic three-stranded braid we all know, your headband braid will make it look like you put effort into your appearance. Feel free to choose a headband braid that’s as intricate as you like—after all, you’ll never have to rebraid it.
Our Picks
So, which headband braids do we recommend for the style-conscious remote worker? With so many contenders, it’s a tough call to make, but a few braids stand out as especially work-ready. For your next Zoom call, reach for the Lulu Two Strand, the Arisa Fishtail, the Olivia, the Evie Four Strand, the Farren Six Strand, or the Junie Twist. They’re simple stunners, designed to elevate your look while keeping the focus on you.