A bandana is a versatile, lightweight accessory that may be worn in a variety of ways. With options for both traditional and street-style outfits, it’s one of the most adaptable pieces you can add to your wardrobe.
The name “bandana” comes from the Sanskrit term “badhnati,” which means “to tie or bind.” Bandanas are currently popular among fashionistas who adore experimenting with inventive accessories to create eye-catching appearances. Bandanas are square or triangular pieces of cloth that are wrapped over the head, face, or neck for protection or style. They typically measure around 20 by 20 inches. They are useful for sailors, farmers, miners, farmers, and motorcyclists alike.
If you think this accessory is only for women, think again—men can wear bandanas in various stylish ways too. You’ve likely seen men sporting printed cotton neckerchiefs, adding a touch of flair to their outfits.
You may have seen various social media influencers showcasing different hairstyle hacks using bandanas in creative ways. Are you ready to incorporate this stylish accessory into your outfits? We’ve listed different styling options on how to put on a bandana that is sure to enhance your look!
How To Tie A Bandana Guide: Different Ways to Wear a Bandana
1. Tie it in your bun
Slay on the beach by carrying a bandana into your messy bun. It gives you a complete boho chick vibe and is perfect for your beach holiday look. To learn how to style a bandana, simply weave it into your hair and then twist the hair into a bun shape. Plus, it takes only a few minutes to get this hairstyle look.
2. Wear it as a headband
Using this technique, you can achieve a timeless and stylish hairstyle. Master this look to create an easy and chic appearance in no time. Simply use your bandana as a headband, or, in other words, turn it into a fabric strip. Tie the fabric strip at the top or bottom of your head—whichever look suits you best.
The great thing about using a bandana as a headband is that it never goes out of style and can be worn in any season, enhancing your overall look. It’s especially ideal when you want to avoid layering during the summer.
Even boys can also try this style by tying a bandana around the head for a bold rock look. This one look is quite popular among musicians for setting a statement in rock concerts.
3. Try something vintage vibe
Show off your hippy side with this cute rocking hairstyle which is perfect for any occasion. You can say in the market scrunchies with hanging bandana type cloth piece. Well, create this with a bandana by tying it around the high ponytail and try to pick the piece in polka-dotted chiffon that gives your 50s throwback hairstyle vibe.
4. Carry around the neck
Add glamour to your look by simply rolling the bandana into a long strand. Then, tie a knot with that strand around your neck, making sure it gives a clean finish on one side. Another way to wear a bandana around your neck is to let both ends hang down, giving a sailor vibe.
Choose an eye-catching colour that contrasts well with your outfit. If you have a larger bandana, experiment with it for an easy look. Fold it in half to form a triangle, wrap it around your neck, and tie a simple knot for a casual style.
Men can try wearing a bandana to create a subtle appearance that works for both casual and classic occasions. The easiest and most common way is to wear it around the neck—simply tie a knot at the front for an elegant, classic look. For a bolder style, try tying the knot at the back of your neck instead.
5. Tucked Into a Shirt
For a fresh, stylish twist, try out the sleek turtleneck look using a bandana. Just tie your bandana the classic way, snugly around your neck, and tuck it into your button-down shirt. It gives a similar vibe to wearing a turtleneck underneath, adding a cool layer of style to your outfit. Plus, it’s a simple way to dress up a casual shirt without much effort. Choose a bandana in a bold colour or pattern to make it pop, and you’ll love how it adds a unique, trendy edge to your look!
6. Biker Style
The most common style for bikers is to cover their hair with a bandana while going on long rides. Not only does it look stylish, but this wearing style also protects your hair from dust and helps keep it shiny. It gives a do-rag look that’s both functional and fashionable.
It’s also easy to wear—just leave your hair down, fold the bandana in half, wrap it around your head, and bring the loose ends to the crown area. Tie them up, and you’re done! You can also try this style with a messy bun or ponytail, not just with the classic open-hair hippie look.
7. Bandana Bow
When trying this style, always choose a bold-coloured bandana with minimal prints to stand out as an attractive hair accessory without making your outfit look overcrowded. You can try the bow style with a bun, open hair, or ponytail for a playful and chic touch.
To make your bandana the centrepiece of a more friendly style, try wearing it with basic outfits like jeans and a T-shirt. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabric textures; a bandana made of satin or silk might elevate the look.
8. Mask bandana
You can tie a bandana loosely around your neck by folding it in half to form a triangle and then twisting it slightly. Ensure the front portion is somewhat flowing, almost like a mask, and bind the loose ends close to the nape. Celebrities like Selena Gomez, Vanessa Hudgens, Kiernan Shipka, and Rita Ora have all adopted this carefree style and used bandanas as stylish accessories.
Tie the ends of the bandana at the back of your head and wrap it around the bridge of your nose, folding it diagonally if you want a cute and slightly enigmatic look. This is a simple approach to maintaining your style without drawing attention to yourself.
9. Wear as an accessory around the wrist
Folding a bandana into a thin band and putting it over your wrist is an amazing way to achieve a casual and stylish look. Just make sure there is enough length to tie a basic knot and that the sharp end is tucked underneath. Keeping it a little messy is another way to pull this look off. It gives any casual outfit a bit of edge.
For that rockstar vibe, vivid prints and darker hues—such as a black bandana with white skulls—work well. For optimal impact, keep it free and somewhat undone; a flawlessly folded appearance is not necessary! It all comes down to adopting a small amount of that carefree mindset.
10. Carry it as a pocket square
If you’re in an emergency, you may use this extremely versatile piece of fabric as a pocket square! All you need to carry out are easy steps. For an immediate sophisticated look, simply fold it up neatly and tuck it into the pocket of your blazer. This small style tip is perfect for smart-casual settings.
Choose a bandana with a striking design or bright colour if you want it to stand out. Additionally, choose a more neutral tone for a refined and understated look. The bandana should be thick enough to show off in style without being too big to fit in your pocket. You might want to quickly iron it first for a neat finish!
11. Wear it as a top
The scarf top is a fashionable style! You could argue that a lot of influencers use this trick in their videos. You can make this look with a huge bandana and no new purchases. produce a triangle out of the bandana by folding it in half to produce a scarf top.
After that, tie the ends firmly in the back and wrap it around your upper body. It’s a really simple and affordable approach to achieving a fashionable look. For a tangy, eye-catching look, choose a bandana with a bright colour or design. This style adds a little vintage fashion with a modern twist, making it ideal for informal get-togethers or even summer parties!
12. Added to a Bag
Bandanas are an easy way to add some fun and versatility to your outfit! Tie a bandana on the strap of your purse for a stylish way to wear it. This gives it a personal touch and can turn an ordinary bag into something fashionable and distinctive.
Try matching the bandana’s colours to your bag or ensemble for a unified style. Or, for an eye-catching and entertaining pop, choose a vivid, contrasting colour and let your individuality shine by being creative!
13. Carry as a Bracelet
Try wrapping a bandana around your wrist if you’re looking in the mirror and feeling that your attire needs a little updating! It’s a really easy approach to give your appearance some flair. You can also use your bandana to draw your hair back if you don’t have an elastic on hand. Use your imagination and flaunt your unique style!
14. Looped Around Like a Belt
Not wearing a belt? Don’t worry! The same support may be obtained with a scarf or bandana, which also gives your ensemble a playful edge. Try wearing your bandana from your waist for a more laid-back style. Without being overt, this technique gives a pop of colour.
Simply tie it to a belt loop, tuck it inside your waistline, or put it in a pocket. It’s also quite comfortable. Additionally, it’s simple to change it up and wear it around your head or neck for a bolder style!
15. Wear it as a Bralette
Do you want to spice up your look? Consider putting on a bandana as a top! Just tie the knot in the front for a lovely, flirty effect. Even in colder climates, this look is fantastic; simply wear it underneath a jacket.
You may simply tie two bandanas together for a playful, mix-and-match look if one feels too small for a top. It’s a chic way to represent who you are and add flair to your ensemble! Have fun and use your imagination!
Do you think this post is helpful? Share it with your friends and loved ones who need this guide. And stay tuned with us for more creative tips to style your look.
Sharan is a fashion enthusiast who shares trend-focused styling tips. She helps readers elevate their wardrobes and stay on top of the latest fashion trends confidently and creatively. Passionate about individuality, she encourages personal expression through style.
