How to tie a bandana — six simple styles. Inspiration for styling a square bandana.
While deep-cleaning the studio yesterday, I found several square bandanas tucked into the couch, folded up in the upstairs built-ins, and tossed in the supply closet. That’s just at the studio — I have no idea how many more are at home.
You know the kind I mean: square scarves with fun patterns, perfect for neckerchiefs and headbands, usually inexpensive and easy to find.
If you’ve collected a few of these, you’re not alone. I pulled together six quick, wearable tutorials to put those bandanas to good use this summer. These looks are simple to recreate and take 60 seconds or less.
6 DIY Ways to Style a Bandana for Summer
1. The Standard Neckerchief
A casual, cool alternative to a necklace. Fold the bandana in half along the diagonal to form a triangle. Starting at the long edge, roll or fold the fabric toward the point until you have a narrow band. Wrap this around your neck and tie a double knot, leaving the ends loose. You can knot it close to your neck for a polished look or wear it loose for a relaxed vibe.
2. The Prim-and-Proper Ponytail
When you want to look put-together while keeping hair out of your face, this is a stylish option. Fold the bandana in half to a triangle, then fold the long edge toward the point about 2 inches to create a band. Secure your hair in a ponytail, wrap the folded bandana twice around the base, and tie the ends in a knot. It’s like an elevated scrunchie with a retro-cool feel.
3. The Tucked-and-Knotted Headband
This tucked-and-knotted headband looks both chic and casual—one of my favorites. Fold the bandana into a triangle, then fold the long edge toward the point to a 1–2 inch width. Wrap the folded bandana around your head and tie a secure knot. Tuck the loose ends under each side of the headband for a neat finish. Works with hair up or down.
4. The Mini Neck Bib
A playful, slightly western-inspired look. Fold the bandana into a triangle, then fold the long edge toward the point in 1–2 inch folds, but leave the bottom point of the triangle exposed. Place the triangle at the front of your neck, wrap the folded bandana around, and double-knot the ends at the back. The exposed point gives a mini bib effect that’s cute with denim and sundresses.
5. The Neckerchief Take 2
A more stylized version of the classic neckerchief. Fold the bandana into a triangle, then fold the long edge toward the point in 2–3 inch folds. Wrap the bandana around your neck, then wrap it a second time and tie a double knot. This creates a layered look that reads deliberate and polished.
6. The Oh-So-Bow Headband
For a playful, feminine touch, fold the bandana into a triangle, then fold the long edge toward the point to a 1–2 inch width. When you near the end, tuck the tip under the folds, then fold over once more to secure it. Wrap the bandana around your head, bring the ends up to the top, and tie a double knot, leaving the ends loose to form a bow. This style works well with any hair length or texture.
6 DIY Ways to Style a Bandana for Summer
Brittni
Ingredients
- 1 square bandana
Instructions
The Standard Neckerchief
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Fold the bandana in half to form a triangle. Roll the long edge toward the point, wrap around the neck, and double knot. Adjust tightness to change the look.
The Prim and Proper Ponytail
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Fold to a triangle, then fold the long edge about 2 inches. Wrap around a ponytail base twice and tie the ends in a knot.
The Tucked and Knotted Headband
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Fold into a triangle, fold the long edge 1–2 inches, wrap around the head, tie a secure knot, and tuck the loose ends under the band.
The Mini Neck Bib
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Fold to a triangle, fold the long edge in 1–2 inch folds but leave the bottom point exposed. Position the triangle at the front of your neck and tie the ends behind your neck.
The Neckerchief Take 2
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Fold into a triangle, fold the long edge 2–3 inches, wrap around the neck twice, and double knot for a layered look.
The Oh-So Bow Headband
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Fold to a triangle, fold the long edge 1–2 inches, tuck the point under the folds near the end, wrap around your head, bring ends to the top and tie a double knot to form a bow.
P.S. If you’re tempted to buy a new bandana to try these looks, pick a pattern or color you wear often—navy checks, black-and-white prints, or a bright solid will all be versatile additions.
Did I miss anything? How do you like to style square bandanas with your outfits? Share your favorite ways in the comments below.