Who could have guessed that a square slip of fabric would become this season’s go-to accessory? We’ve been seeing chic bandanas make their way into nearly every wardrobe this fall, sometimes draped over the shoulders or tied around the waist, landing somewhere between a silk skirt and a belt. With icons like Alexa Chung and Sabrina Carpenter fully committing to the trend and no hard-and-fast rules to follow, it’s time to finally learn how to style bandanas.
Because of their versatility, bandanas—which can mean silk scarves, classic neckerchiefs, or knitted triangles of fabric—can be worn with so many of this season’s trending styles. Paired with our favorite outerwear pieces like leather jackets and suede blazers to tonal knitwear and elegant accessories, here are five ways to style bandanas this fall and winter.
To the Hips
This styling method may be just what catapulted scarves back into the limelight. Your go-to fall wardrobe can get an instant upgrade with the simple act of tying a silk scarf around your hips. Whether you pair it with denim and a wool coat or a simple dress, this is a low-effort, high-impact way to master the bandana trend this year.
Loro Piana Silk Foulard Scarf
Everlane Oversized Polo Sweater
Slvrlake London High-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans
Ray-Ban Wayfarer Puffer Sunglasses
A Head Scarf
Whether tied under the chin or behind the head, bandanas take the reins as this season’s go-to hair accessory. A polka dot silk option evokes the air of a 1950s Hollywood starlet, but you can pair the look with neutral capsule pieces for a more modern feel.
Lost Pattern Retro Polka Dot Silk Bandana Scarf
Massimo Dutti Wool Double-Breasted Blazer
Cos Relaxed Fluid Wide-Leg Pants
Bottega Veneta Large Hop Shoulder Bag
Alohas Tb.490 Rife Soft Camel Leather Sneakers
Over the Shoulders
Sailor collars on outerwear feel like this season’s new twist on the traditional trench coat. The same effect can be achieved by draping knitted bandanas over the shoulders. Paired with a barn jacket and your favorite jeans, this is a nice way to add new colors or textures to your fall wardrobe.
Banana Republic Merino-Cotton Triangle Scarf
Rag & Bone Nonie 2-in-1 Cotton Twill Jacket
Citizens of Humanity Blaine Vintage Straight
Dôen Sebastine Crochet Organic Cotton Poplin Skirt
Maison Margiela Tabi Ballerina Pump
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Tone on Tone
Whether you’re channeling a vintage stewardess or a classic Parisian beauty, a classic bandana tied around the neck will never go out of style. Match your neckerchief with similar tones for a color-drenched look that’s easy to put together but still feels elevated.
Alex Mill Nottinghill Sweater
Veronica Beard Elin Wide-Leg Side Stripe Pants
Staud Wally Flat Ankle Boot
Le Specs Duskfall Sunglasses
Fanciful Draping
A larger silk scarf can be worn in a myriad of ways. Whether draped across your front, tied across the waist, or used as a simple layer to add more color, there are no rules to abide by. It can feel boho or extremely luxe, depending on the accessories you pair it with.
Dries Van Noten Soie Malaquais Silk Foulard
Source Unknown Nangy Double Breasted Cinched Blazer
Mango Mia Satin Midi Skirt
Déhanche Hollyhock Cavallino Belt
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