What is the quickest way to make your hair look ten times cooler? Adding hair accessories, of course!
A bandana is an excellent choice for girls who don’t have time for hairpins. They come in so many patterns and colors that you won’t be bored of them anytime soon.
Plus, bandanas are way more effortless and quicker to style than hairpins. Who wants to fumble around with a bunch of bobby pins when they can just wrap a bandana around their hair and call it a day?
But not all of us know how to style bandanas correctly. We don’t want to look like the old auntie next door now, don’t we? So how can we avoid that and look like a gorgeous queen instead?
This list is the answer to that question. Scroll down to see the best bandana hairstyles on Instagram and other social media.
Here are 25 ways to wear your bandana like a real queen. Save these pictures for future inspiration. It’s time to level up your look and live the life of a fashionista!
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A Comprehensive Guide to Mastering Bandana Hairstyles
The bandana, a simple square of fabric, is arguably the most versatile and timeless hair accessory in fashion history.
Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to effortlessly bridge different aesthetics, from bohemian chic and vintage rockabilly to street style cool and modern minimalism.
More than just a functional item to manage hair or absorb sweat, the bandana is a powerful styling tool that can instantly transform your look, adding a pop of color, texture, or pattern.
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Mastering the bandana involves understanding a few fundamental folding techniques and pairing them with the right hairstyle.
Whether you have long, flowing waves or a short, sharp cut, there’s a bandana style that not only looks great but also solves common hair dilemmas, making it the ultimate warm-weather and festival accessory.
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Bandana Folding Techniques
Before styling, you must master the two fundamental folds that serve as the base for almost every bandana hairstyle.
The Classic Triangle Fold
This fold is used when you want the bandana to cover a wide area of the head, such as the crown or the forehead, like a traditional kerchief.
- Lay Flat: Lay the square bandana flat on a surface, face-up.
- Fold: Bring one corner diagonally to meet the opposite corner, forming a large triangle.
- Adjust: This is your kerchief shape. For a tighter, smaller kerchief, you can fold the long, pointed end toward the base of the triangle once or twice.
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The Headband Strip Fold
This fold is used for styles where you want a thin, crisp strip of fabric, perfect for headbands, wraps, or woven braids.
- Lay Flat: Lay the square bandana flat, face-up.
- Start Folding: Fold the bottom edge up about 1-2 inches.
- Continue Rolling: Continue folding the bandana upward in even, 1-2 inch increments until the entire fabric is transformed into a long, neat strip or “ribbon.” This method ensures the fabric is taut and stays put.
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Timeless and Iconic Looks
These styles are the foundation of bandana hair fashion, requiring minimal effort for maximum impact.
The Full Kerchief (Bohemian and Protective)
This classic look is perfect for second-day hair, protecting the scalp from the sun, or lending a relaxed, bohemian vibe.
- How to Style: Use the Classic Triangle Fold. Place the long, folded edge across your forehead (or slightly behind the hairline). Bring the two free corners around the back of the head, overlapping the middle point of the triangle. Tie the two free corners in a tight knot (either over or under the hanging corner) at the nape of the neck.
- Vibe: Perfect with loose waves or messy braids. This style is practical for the beach or poolside.
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The Rockabilly Headband (Retro and Pinned-Up)
A favorite of the 1940s and 50s, this style features a bold knot at the crown and is often paired with victory rolls or pin-up curls.
- How to Style: Use the Headband Strip Fold. With the strip centered at the nape of your neck, bring the ends up over the top of your head. Tie the ends in a double knot (or a small, neat bow) directly on top of your head, near the hairline. Tuck the loose ends slightly inward.
- Vibe: Best with curled hair or a simple ponytail. Use a bandana with polka dots or cherries for true vintage flair.
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The Classic Low Ponytail Wrap
This style elevates a simple ponytail or bun, offering a chic Parisian or Western-inspired look.
- How to Style: Secure your hair into a low ponytail or bun. Use the Headband Strip Fold to create a strip. Wrap the strip around the base of the ponytail (hiding the elastic) and secure it with a neat bow or a simple knot, letting the tails hang down the length of your hair.
- Vibe: Works well with sleek, straight hair for a refined look, or loosely curled hair for a softer feel.
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Contemporary and Trend-Forward Techniques
These methods utilize the bandana in ways that feel current, fresh, and slightly unexpected.
The Woven Braid Accent
This technique adds color and depth to a simple braid, making it look much more complex than it is.
- How to Style: Secure a ponytail. Use the Headband Strip Fold and tie the strip securely around the base of the ponytail. Divide the ponytail into three sections, with one of the bandana tails becoming the third strand (the second bandana tail can be tucked away). Braid the hair, incorporating the bandana into the strand. Secure the end with an elastic.
- Vibe: Ideal for festivals or outdoor events. The bandana adds thickness and prevents the braid from unraveling.
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The Under-The-Hair Headband
A minimalist, seamless style that keeps the hair tucked back without the noticeable bulk of a knot.
- How to Style: Use the Headband Strip Fold. Place the center of the strip against your forehead. Bring the two tails back behind your ears and secure them with a tight double knot at the nape of the neck, underneath the hair. Let the rest of your hair fall over the knot.
- Vibe: Subtle, athletic, and functional. Great for keeping bangs out of your face with short or long hair.