Photography by Mick Hutson/Redferns via Getty Images
The bandana has long been a go-to accessory and it pops in and out of mainstream culture like a fashionable friend you only catch up with every couple of years. The ’90s was the bandana’s heyday, and artists like 2Pac and Aaliyah will be forever synonymous with the accessory. Of course, the rest of us followed in their footsteps and started wearing them. With even pop royalty joining in on the trend (ahem, Justin Timberlake circa NSYNC days), there are certain pop culture moments that will are forever intertwined with the fabric accessory like Mariah Carey’s “Loverboy” video and J.Lo’s 2000 MTV Music Video Awards appearance alongside Puff Daddy.
It seems as though the bandana is popping up again lately and as with all things ’90s, we can’t wait to incorporate it into our look. Coach featured bandanas heavily for Fall 2015 but it’s the less traditional adaptation of this trend that’t making a welcome comeback.
The paisley square is no longer simply being used as a headpiece. Of course you can do the typical headband on days when your dry shampoo just isn’t cutting it, but if you’re feeling a little more adventurous, here are some tips on how to incorporate this budget-friendly trend into your ensemble.
From Mariah to Miley Cyrus, we’ve rounded up 12 ways to wear a bandana, as demonstrated by our favourite celebs.
When you want to keep your look #tbt-worthy, take note from the ’90s hip-hop queens and simply fold it in half and tie it around your head.
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TLC
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Clueless
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J.Lo.
For a more subtle look, use a bandana as a headband.
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Beyoncé
Fully embrace the ’90s and create a triangle top with a simple knot at the back.
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Mariah Carey
Wear the iconic red print as a bandeau.
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Coach
Add a western vibe to your look and tie it around your neck.
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Kendall Jenner
Play with size and use an oversized version as a scarf. Try this in fall when a thicker material is not yet needed but you still want some warmth.
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Miley Cyrus
Make an entire outfit out of bandanas for a night out.
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Man Repeller, Leandra Medine
Get creative with the accessory and tie it around your wrist as a standout bracelet. It serves as a great pop of colour when the rest of your outfit is neutral.
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Man Repeller, Leandra Medine
Create your own version of an anklet.
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Zina Charkoplia
Take a cue from this fashion blogger and simply tie a bandana onto your purse as an added detail.