Cat-ear headbands became a trend last year, and I wasn’t sure they would last. Sure, it’s fine to wear a pair for dress-up, but would the public really adopt them as a legitimate fashion accessory? To my surprise, instead of the ears being a novelty item never to be seen again, they’ve been cropping up everywhere this spring in a host of new colors and designs that feel fresh and modern.
Here’s where I admit that I haven’t been brave enough to wear a pair out in public (yet), but if I do decide to dip my paw in the feline cosplay pond, these are the hottest new styles that I’d be excited to try first.
The days of single cat-ear headband options are over. Now, we’re free to express our best cat selves through pearls, lace, flowers, and sleekly geometric designs that are equal parts edgy and adorable.
1. Floral Cat Ears
I am obsessed with Locketship, the creative line of colorful, kitty-related accessories by designer Maria Ewing. Her latest collection, Día de los Meowtos, is a celebration of the Mexican holiday Day of the Dead, and features covet-worthy kitty sugar-skull necklaces, rings, and brooches that have all been dipped in a healthy dose of glitter.
The centerpiece of the collection, however, is the delicate cat ear headbands, which come in delicious shades of lavender, mint, and pink. The tiny roses are constructed out of paper and come together to create a gorgeous floral crown that transcends the label of crazy cat lady.
2. Cat Ears Lace Headband
Another popular fabric choice for cat ear headbands is lace, so I’m loving this delicate option from ASOS Collection. The slim band features a woven ribbon trim and sheer-lace ear details, which are decidedly sophisticated.
In addition to cat ears, it appears to be open season on all animals when it comes to these trendy accessories for spring. I’ve also spotted lace bunny ears and mouse ears, so it’s easier than ever before to represent your favorite critter in style.
3. Cyber Cat Ears Headband
If lace isn’t your thing, I’m really feeling these cyber cat ears from TopShop. The sharp plastic points make them feel slightly more dangerous. They’re the perfect complement to a night out on the prowl.
To soften them up a bit, the headband is also available in a super-pretty floral print, which makes me want to dress up and drink tea in a garden. Whoever thought there’d be a day when there would be so many different styles of cat ears to choose from, and that you could mix and match them to fit any outfit or mood?
4. Sarah Beaded Cat Headband
I’m intrigued by how unconventional cat headbands can really add polish to any outfit, just like a perfect piece of jewelry. The beaded kitty headband by BooHoo flips the notion of a pearl necklace on its head by crafting the beads into a cool headpiece that still looks simple and sweet.
While it’s perfectly fine to wear the ears with whatever you’d like, I love the juxtaposition of pairing the delicate pearls with a leopard-print shirt with a studded collar. It’s a really interesting way to keep with the entire cat theme, but still looks fresh and current.
5. Geo Cat Ears Headband
Out of all of the headbands I’ve seen this season, the black-and-white Geo Cat Ears Headband by TopShop takes the title of most chic. The Art Deco-inspired design is tailor-made for the sophisticated feline fashionista who isn’t ready to sacrifice her fashion sense for the love of cats.
No matter what your cat ear preference, I think the key to rocking any accessory as bold as this one is confidence. Wear your cat ears with pride, and don’t let them wear you!
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