Men's bandana: how to wear it?
Long associated with cowboys or bikers, the bandana is today making a true comeback in men's wardrobes. And for good reason: few accessories are capable of adding so much personality to an outfit so quickly.
Both practical and decorative, the bandana allows you to introduce color, contrast and texture into an outfit often made up of understated pieces.
In this article, discover with The Nines how to fold and wear it!
The bandana: a small accessory with a great history
The word "bandana" comes from Hindi bandhnu, meaning "to tie" or "to bind". Initially used as a utilitarian scarf to protect against dust or the sun, it crossed centuries and continents before becoming a true accessory.
Over time, it was adopted by sailors, workers, cowboys and then American cinema icons. Today, it naturally finds its place in the contemporary men's wardrobe, particularly when paired with pieces inspired by workwear, relaxed tailoring or the Riviera style.
How to fold a bandana?
Before wearing it, you first need to make sure you fold it correctly!
The most versatile method is to form a strip: start by laying the bandana flat, then fold it diagonally to create a triangle. Next, fold the point inward before continuing to fold the fabric over itself until you obtain a strip a few centimeters wide.
The narrower the strip, the more understated the result. Conversely, a slightly wider strip will add more character to the outfit.
Wearing the bandana around the neck
This is undoubtedly the most elegant way to wear a bandana: once folded into a strip, simply tie it around the neck with a small knot placed at the front or slightly offset to the side.
The goal is not to tighten the fabric like a tie, but to maintain a certain looseness. Indeed, the bandana should naturally follow the movement of the collar and remain slightly relaxed.
It is also an excellent alternative to a scarf or neckerchief when temperatures are milder.
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The bandana worn as a scarf
For a more defined look, you can keep part of the triangular shape of the bandana. Once folded, let a small point show at the front of the neck before tying the ends at the back.
This way of wearing it evokes more the world of travel, the Riviera or a reimagined western aesthetic. It works very well with light jackets, denim shirts or pieces with military inspirations.
The key is to keep a certain simplicity in the rest of the outfit, so that the bandana remains an accent rather than a dominant element.
The bandana in the jacket pocket
Another option is to repurpose the bandana from its traditional use: slipped into a breast pocket, it can replace a classic pocket square with a touch of originality!
The result is less formal than a silk pocket square but often more striking! The bandana's patterns add texture and contrast, particularly when paired with fabrics such as linen, cotton or summer wools.
What pieces to pair a bandana with?
The bandana works particularly well when it accompanies clothing with an already strong character. It naturally pairs with:
- a safari jacket ;
- a summer blazer ;
- a denim shirt ;
Conversely, it is often best to avoid pairing it with very formal outfits or strict suits, where it risks looking disconnected from the rest of the ensemble.
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Watch our video tutorial
If you prefer a video demonstration, we have also created a tutorial in which we show step by step how to fold a bandana and the different ways to wear it on a daily basis!
Watch the full tutorial:
