The history of the bandana

This patterned square of fabric originated in India, hence its name, which comes from the Hindi “bandhana” meaning “it binds”. Traces of this scarf date back to the 18th century. It has crossed the ages and been associated with many categories of people: cowboys, hippies, rockers, rappers, gangs…

Traditional bandanas typically measure around 22 inches square, making them a versatile and functional accessory for outdoor enthusiasts.

Wearing a bandana is no longer a sign of gang membership, but a popular accessory!

Some big names in fashion have hijacked the accessory (Louis Vuitton, Margaret Howell and Hermès), so much so that the trend has finally made its way into mainstream ready-to-wear. Wearing a bandana has even recently taken on the appearance of a symbol of protest, with many models and designers from major fashion houses sporting white bandanas at the 2017 Fashion Week shows in peaceful protest against a new US government measure.

Simple tricks can help enhance the look of a bandana, and adding it to your look is a touch of originality that’s sure to please.

Note: When purchasing a bandana, be aware that updates will not be sent and the pattern will not be available in your Ravelry library.

Ways to wear a bandana

We have models in white, gray, black, red… and many other patterns, such as the well-known swirl pattern, to satisfy all your desires for this square scarf.

You’ve bought a bandana, and now you need to figure out what style you want to give it. Bandanas can be used as stylish neckwear accessories, enhancing your outfit with various patterns and colors. They are not just worn at festivals; on the contrary, the bandana is very versatile and can be worn on many occasions!

Fear not! We’ll list some suggestions for you here.

The bandana around the neck

Tying a bandana around your neck is an alternative to the traditional necklace.

You can really play around with it, by adding color, the bandana can be a great help in freshening up your outfit. By pairing a colorful bandana around your neck, such as a red bandana, with a monochrome outfit, all black or gray, the bandana will draw the eyes of surrounding individuals to you.

How to tie a Bandana around your neck:

- Start by laying your bandana flat

- Fold it in half to form a triangle

- Fold this triangle in on itself to form a band shape

- Tie this band around your neck, leaving some excess fabric hanging down for a more casual look.

Bandana around the head

If you don't feel like styling your hair, or simply want to accessorize your outfit a little, bandanas as hair accessories are your allies. Once again, by playing with color and texture, the bandana can really work in your favor. The trend for bandanas as headbands is currently being seen in both men's and women's hair, so now's your chance to try something new!

How to tie a Bandana as a Bandeau:

- Fold your bandana lengthwise into a long rectangle, tucking into the small triangle of fabric you'll end up with in one corner of the bandana.

- Then wrap it around your head and tie it a few times to make sure it stays on your head all day.

Bandana around the leg

It's probably not the first place you'd think to put a bandana, but it can enhance a casual look.

A bandana here is surprisingly appealing to the fashion-conscious, who want unusual outfits and an atypical touch.

Tie the bandana like a headband, as seen above in the section on bandanas around the head.

Wearing a simplistic outfit, such as blue jeans and a white shirt, is classic, but can be monotonous. Wearing a red bandana around your ankle will add color to your look, and if you want people to look at your feet, to show off a new pair of shoes for example, this will be perfect.

Bandana around the wrist

If you're in the mood for a bandana in a more classic place than the leg, you can try it on the wrist. The bandana will act as a bracelet, and you'll find plenty of models to suit you at Traclet.