Who would have thought that along with platform heels, avant-garde sweaters, and curly bangs from the 1970s, ribbons would make a comeback? Showing the world how it’s done, actor Zendaya walked the red carpet at the 74th Primetime Emmy Awards with a satin ribbon in her pulled-back, soft, blown-away curls. Her fresh make-up and the monotone custom Maison Valentino gown drew attention to the subtle chicness of the hairstyle, highlighting the ribbon. For Shaira Mulwani, a bridal hair and make-up artiste (@shai__makeupandhair), the look spelled nostalgia. “My mother would dress me up with ribbons in my hair all the time when I was younger. I never thought I would use them now, thinking they  would look childish. But they are classic. I use ribbons often on  clients,” she says, decoding three ways to style ribbons.

Sleeky evenings

If you want to achieve Zendaya’s dressed-up look for an evening event or party, Mulwani recommends styling a high and sleek ponytail with a ribbon. First, use a lightweight mousse or spray to tame fly-away strands or baby hair on the crown of your head. Comb back your hair into a high ponytail and tie it. Cover the band with the ribbon and tie a medium-sized bow at the side.