21 Bandana Hairstyles Ideas
Bandanas aren’t just for cowboys, bikers, or ‘90s throwback photoshoots. Nope—they’re back in full force and they’re serving everything from casual “I woke up like this” vibes to polished, Pinterest-worthy looks.
I’ve personally leaned on bandanas on those days (you know, when your hair decides to rebel against society).
They’ve saved me at music festivals, on lazy Sunday brunches, and even when I wanted to look put-together on a Zoom call without washing my hair.
So, if you’re curious about how to turn this simple square of fabric into a style statement, buckle up—because I’ve got 21 bandana hairstyle ideas that you’ll actually want to try.
1. Classic Bandana Headband
Let’s start with the OG. Fold your bandana into a strip and tie it across your head like a headband.
- Works on straight, wavy, or curly hair.
- Instantly hides greasy roots (yep, been there).
- Adds a pop of color when your outfit feels blah.
Pro tip: Leave your hair down for a casual look or pair it with a messy bun for that “effortlessly chic” vibe.
2. The Rosie the Riveter Look
Channel your inner icon by folding your bandana into a triangle and tying it at the top of your head.
Why I love it: It’s empowering and practical. Keeps your hair back while you’re cleaning, cooking, or, you know, saving the world.
3. Low Ponytail Wrap
Bored of the plain ponytail? Wrap a bandana around your hair tie. Suddenly, that low pony looks Pinterest-worthy.
- Best for second-day hair.
- You can match the bandana color with your outfit.
- Adds movement when the ends flow with your hair.
4. The Braided Bandana
Ever tried braiding a bandana into your hair? It’s a total game changer. Just treat the bandana like an extra braid strand.
Result: Your braids instantly look fuller and more stylish.
5. Messy Bun with Bandana
You know that messy bun that takes five seconds but looks like you tried? Add a bandana at the base, and suddenly you look like you stepped out of a magazine.
IMO, this is the ultimate lazy-girl hack.
6. Half-Up Bandana Tie
Take half your hair up, secure it with a scrunchie, and tie a bandana around it. It screams playful without trying too hard.
Perfect for coffee runs, park picnics, or just lounging.
7. Boho Festival Wrap
Fold the bandana into a triangle and tie it around your forehead like a boho goddess. Think Coachella, but without the overpriced lemonade.
Bonus: Keeps the sun out of your face while dancing all day.
8. High Ponytail Scarf Look
Tie your bandana around a high pony and let the ends hang. The higher the ponytail, the sassier the look. 😉
9. The Pirate Chic
Okay, hear me out—fold the bandana into a triangle, cover the top of your head, and tie it at the back.
Yes, it gives pirate vibes. But with sunglasses and big hoops? Straight fire.
10. Bandana Turban Style
This is for the bold ones. Wrap your bandana turban-style around your head. It’s edgy, stylish, and instantly elevates a plain outfit.
11. Wrapped Bun
Tie your hair into a sleek bun and wrap the bandana around it like a bun cover. Chic, tidy, and a little Parisian.
12. Side Tie Headband
Instead of tying the knot at the back, let it sit at the side of your head. Quirky and cute without being over the top.
13. Short Hair Savior
Got a pixie cut or a bob? Bandanas still work. Wrap one like a thin headband, and you’ll add instant edge to your short hair look.
14. The Vintage Pin-Up
Think retro diner vibes. Curl your hair, tie a bandana with a front knot, and boom—you’re basically ready to star in a Grease reboot.
15. Bandana Pigtails
Feeling playful? Tie a mini bandana around each pigtail. Warning: This might make you look younger than you are—but hey, sometimes that’s the goal.
16. Slick Back Bandana
On days when your hair won’t cooperate, slick it back with gel and tie a bandana over the crown. Think edgy streetwear meets practicality.
17. The Backpacker Look
Fold a bandana and tie it at the nape of your neck like travelers used to. Perfect for hiking, beach days, or just channeling “wanderlust aesthetic.”
18. Ponytail Base Wrap
Instead of wrapping the bandana around the whole ponytail, just cover the elastic. It’s subtle but makes your hair look more polished.
19. Bandana Crown Braid
This one’s fancy: braid your hair around your head like a crown and weave in a bandana.
It’s perfect for weddings, garden parties, or when you want to feel like royalty without the tiara.
20. Bandana Under a Hat
Yes, you can double up. Wear a bandana tied low on your forehead and layer a baseball cap or wide-brim hat over it. Instant cool points.
21. The Bedhead Fix
This is my favorite lazy-day hack. When your hair looks like it lost a fight with your pillow, just throw on a bandana as a full head cover.
Add sunglasses, and suddenly it’s “mysterious chic,” not “I didn’t shower.”
Final Thoughts
See? Bandanas aren’t just a random accessory stuffed in your drawer—they’re basically the Swiss Army knife of hair styling. With just one square of fabric, you can go from vintage glam to festival boho to lazy-day lifesaver.
The beauty is that bandana hairstyles work on every hair type, every length, and every vibe. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a low-effort, high-style hack?
So, next time your hair rebels, don’t panic. Grab a bandana, pick one of these 21 ideas, and let it do the heavy lifting. Who knows—you might just find your new signature look.