Hair Accessories

A bandana can fix a basic hairstyle in just a few minutes. It can hide flat roots, keep hair out of your face, and add color to a simple outfit. But it is easy to buy a cute bandana and then have no idea what to do with it. Maybe it slips down your head. Maybe the knot feels too big. Or maybe you think bandanas only work with long hair. They do not. You can wear bandanas with short hair, curls, braids, ponytails, buns, and loose waves. The main trick is picking the right fold and tie for your hairstyle. These hairstyles with bandanas are easy to copy at home. Some work for busy mornings. Others are better for a beach day, a summer event, or a day when your hair needs a little help. Save your favorite look and try it with a bandana you already own. How to Choose a Bandana That Stays Put Before you pick a hairstyle, choose a bandana shape that works with the look you want. A standard square cotton bandana is great for casual styles. It works well with ponytails, messy buns, and loose hair. Cotton has a bit more grip, so it may stay in place better on straight or silky hair. Satin and silky bandanas give a softer finish. They can look lovely with curls, braids, and twists. They are also a nice choice when you want a dressier look. Keep in mind that smooth fabrics can slide more easily, so you may need a few hidden bobby pins. The way you fold the bandana matters too. Your Goal Best Bandana Style Keep hair off your face Folded headband Dress up a ponytail Bandana bow Cover roots or frizz Wide head wrap Add detail to a braid Woven bandana strip For a headband, fold the bandana into a long thin strip. For a vintage wrap, fold it into a triangle. And curls or braids, use a wider fold that covers more of the hairline. Start with dry hair when possible. A little dry shampoo at the roots can also help your bandana grip better. If the style still slides, place one bobby pin behind each ear under the fabric. Your bandana should feel secure, but it should never give you a headache. If it feels too tight, loosen it and try again. Bandana Crown Braid Create a crown braid around the top or back of your head. Once the braid is secure, wrap a thin bandana strip around part of the braid. Tie it at the back. This style takes more time, but it can look lovely for a summer party or outdoor event. A floral or soft pastel bandana works especially well with this hairstyle. Do not pull the braid too tight. The style should feel secure but comfortable. Best for: Events and dressier summer looksHair type: Medium to long hairUpkeep: Medium to high Braided bandana hairstyles look best when the fabric is folded thin. Thick fabric can make the braid feel heavy and hide the shape of your hair. Bandana-Woven Three-Strand Braid Start by folding your bandana into a narrow strip. Gather your hair into a low ponytail. Use the bandana as one of the three pieces in your braid. Braid your hair as usual, letting the fabric show between the sections. Tie the end with a small elastic, then use the bandana ends to make a knot or bow. This style looks best when the braid is not too tight. A loose braid lets more of the print show. Best for: Long hair and festival outfitsHair type: Medium to long hairUpkeep: Medium Bob Hairstyle With a Nape Tie Style your bob straight or with soft waves. Fold a bandana into a narrow strip, then tie it at the nape of your neck under your hair. This gives the hairstyle a simple retro feel. It also works well when you do not want the knot showing on top of your head. Try a printed bandana with sunglasses and a plain T-shirt for an easy weekend look. Best for: Short bobs and lob haircutsHair type: Straight or wavy hairUpkeep: Low Braids or Twists With a Satin Bandana Wrap A satin bandana wrap can look neat with braids or twists. Fold it into a triangle and place the wide edge near your hairline. Tie the ends at the back or top of your head. You can cover the full top of your hair or leave some braids visible at the front. This works well when you want a simple style for errands, travel, or relaxing at home. Choose a soft fabric and keep the wrap loose enough that it does not hurt. Best for: Braids, twists, and easy head-wrap looksHair type: Braided and textured hairUpkeep: Low Short hair and protective styles can look just as stylish with bandanas. Pick soft fabric, use a comfortable knot, and avoid very tight wraps around the hairline. Classic Bandana Headband With Loose Waves This is one of the easiest bandana hairstyles to try. Fold your bandana into a thin strip. Place it along your hairline and tie it under your hair at the nape of your neck. You can wear this look with natural waves, loose curls, or straight hair. It works especially well on days when your roots look flat or your front pieces will not stay in place. A middle part gives this style a soft, relaxed look. A side part makes it feel more vintage. Best for: Errands, school, and casual daysHair type: Straight, wavy, or loose curlsUpkeep: Low Curly Hair With a Wide Bandana Wrap A wide bandana wrap is a simple way to style curls when you want the front of your hair controlled but still want volume at the back. Fold the bandana into a wide strip. Place it near your hairline and tie it at the back or top of your head. Leave your curls full and loose behind it. This style can help when your … Read more