Bandanas are so stylish
The bandana is a thin square cloth made of cotton, typically with edges 50 to 60 cm in length. This practical headgear can be tied around the head using different tying techniques. There are also other stylish ways to incorporate the bandana into your outfit for everyday wear, but also on special occasions. The playful paisley pattern is typical of bandanas, but nowadays bandanas are also available in many other designs. This versatile accessory has become a must-have for many fashion-conscious trendsetters, as its various uses enhance any outfit in a simple but fashionable way. Browse through our range now and discover a variety of bandanas.
The origin of the bandana
The word bandana comes from Hindi and means ‘to tie’. It was originally popular as a neckerchief, especially among field workers, cowboys and train drivers, for catching sweat and protecting against dust. During the Second World War, women in American factories used the handy bandana cloths to tie back their long hair. Later in the 1970s, bandanas started being used as an identity badge among popular gangs such as the Bloods and Crips, signalling their group affiliation. Today, the bandana scarf is no longer just tied around the neck or in the hair, but can be combined in rockabilly style, biker style or even a casual everyday look thanks to the different styling variations and tying techniques.
How do I tie a bandana correctly?
Bandanas are a versatile accessory that can be worn on the head with different tying techniques – and add that certain something to any outfit. But how is the bandana properly tied as a headscarf or hairband? In the following video, we show the three most popular ways to wear the bandana loosely and casually on the head.
No time to watch the video? No problem! Our series of pictures provides an easy and understandable guide on how the bandana can be worn.
The bandana as a hairband
Whether with your hair down or styled into a braid – the bandana can be easily tied around the head as a classic hairband:
The bandana as a headband
Similar to the hairband option, the bandana can be easily folded and knotted into a headband. The following photos show what this can look like in the end:
The bandana as a hair tie
Is your hair in the way of your face, but you don't have a hair tie at hand? No problem, because you can also easily tie it into a braid using the bandana. Our model shows how chic this can even look in the end:
The bandana as a headscarf
Very trendy and also great sun protection for the head, the bandana can be tied as a pirate scarf. Melodie shows us how to tie the scarf in this way:
Further style variations for the bandana
The bandana doesn’t have to be worn on the head, but can also be integrated into any outfit in a range of different ways. It can be worn as a substitute for a choker around the neck, casually wrapped around the handbag or even used as a mouth/nose guard.
Around the neck
The bandana can also be displayed as a cool substitute for a necklace. To do this, fold a scarf of any colour and then simply tie it around the neck. Voilá, the necklace is ready!
As a face mask
Protection against cold or dust? Did you know a mouthguard could look this cool? Simply fold the bandana at the tips and tie it behind the neck. If you don't need the mouthguard, you can simply pull the scarf down.
On the wrist
The versatile scarf in your favourite colour can also be worn around the wrist. Simply fold the bandana, put it around your wrist and tie it. The scarf can also serve as a practical, stylish sweatband.
As a hatband
Has your favourite hat gotten boring, but still sits perfectly on your head? No problem, because the bandana can also be used as a hat band and really spices up any plain piece of headwear.
Bandanas for men
This trendy accessory isn’t just for women; bandanas are popular with men, too. More than a trope for pirates or bikers, the bandana is a timeless accessory for many occasions. Men can make use of the many ways to tie a bandana, using it to add a stylish touch to any outfit.
Summary: Tying a bandana
A bandana can be tied in many different ways. Traditionally, the square cloth is folded into a triangle and used as a pirate's bandana, neckerchief or face mask. For other styles, fold the tip of the triangle to the long outer edge and then fold the cloth again towards the centre to form a long strip. This can now be worn as a headband, hairband and much more.