Why Settle for Plain? 20 Bandana Hairstyles to Make Your Look Pop

Bandanas are more than 90s throwbacks—they’re one of the most versatile accessories for modern hair styling. In seconds, a folded square of fabric can tame flyaways, add a pop of color, or protect your strands from sun damage. Below, discover 20 creative bandana hairstyles, styling tips, and care advice to take your look from basic to beautifully bold.

20 Bandana Hairstyles

1. Classic Headband Wrap

Fold your bandana into a long strip, place it at your hairline, and tie a knot at the crown. Tuck in loose ends and wear with hair down or in waves. This timeless style frames the face and instantly upgrades casual looks.

2. Top Knot with Bandana

Create a high bun and wrap a bandana around its base. Tie a bow or knot on top. This adds playful flair and secures your knot without exposing the elastic.

3. Ponytail Bow

Pull hair into a ponytail, loop the bandana around the elastic, and tie a bow. For extra hold, wrap the ends along the ponytail shaft. Perfect for sporty-chic vibes.

4. Low Bun Twist

Form a low bun, then twist and wrap a bandana around it like a ribbon. Tuck ends beneath the bun for a refined, polished updo.

5. Side Braid Weave

French-braid hair to one side, then weave a thin bandana strip through the last few inches. Secure with an elastic for a boho-chic effect.

6. Afro Puff Base

Tie a bandana around your hairline to protect edges, then gather curls into a puff. The bandana adds color and holds baby hairs in place.

7. Half-Up Twist

Gather the top half of your hair into a small pony or bun. Wrap a bandana strip around the base, tying a knot or bow for a playful finish.

8. French Braid with Bandana

Incorporate a bandana strip as a fifth “strand” in a French braid. You’ll end up with a colorful braid woven seamlessly into your hair.

9. Low Pony with Wrap

Secure a low ponytail, then wrap a bandana around the elastic multiple times. Tie the ends to one side for an elegant accent.

10. Loose Hair Tieback

Pull back a small section of hair at the temples, secure with a mini elastic, and cover the tie with a bandana knot for subtle definition.

11. Space Buns

Create two space buns, then loop bandanas around each base. Tie them into small bows for a playful, festival-ready look.

12. Fishtail Braid

After forming a fishtail braid, wrap a narrow bandana strip around the braid’s end and tie it off, adding texture and color.

13. High Bun Halo

Place a bandana strip flat around your head like a headband, and then form a high bun on top. The bandana creates a “halo” effect.

14. Double Band Wrap

Fold two bandanas into thin strips of contrasting colors. Layer them around your head like a doubled headband for a vibrant, eye-catching style.

15. Scarf Headscarf

Open the bandana to full size, fold into a triangle, and tie under the chin or at the nape. This covers most of your hair and channels vintage glamour.

16. Crown Braids

Braid small sections from each temple and wrap around your head like a crown. Tie the ends into or under the bandana at the back for ornate detail.

17. Side Sweep Bandana

Sweep hair to one side, secure loosely, then tie a folded bandana at the part. This asymmetrical look adds instant edge.

18. Messy Bun Cover

Create a messy bun at the top of your head. Wrap a bandana fully around the bun, covering the base and concealing flyaways.

19. Braided Headband

French-braid a bandana strip itself, then wear the finished braid as a headband, securing ends behind your ears.

20. Beach Waves Bandana

Create loose beach waves, then place a bandana at your forehead like an 80s headband. Slide hair back and tie behind the neck for a relaxed vibe.

Wrap Up

From casual errands to weekend brunches, bandana hairstyles offer infinite ways to refresh your look with minimal effort. Experiment with knots, folds, and placements to find your signature style—and remember, even the simplest wrap can pack a fashion-forward punch.