Bandanas

Discover the Best Bandanas & Headties in the UK: Style, Stores, and Smart Picks

Why Bandanas Are a Must-Have Accessory

Timeless style with modern twists

Bandanas have marched through history like a trusty companion — from practical head coverings to fashion statements that finish an outfit. Today they’re back stronger than ever, adding personality to a plain tee or balancing a tailored jacket. Think of a bandana as the punctuation mark of your outfit: a small detail that can change the whole sentence. Whether you want a rugged, vintage vibe or a polished, minimalist look, a 22" square bandana can do the trick.

Understanding Bandana Sizes and Materials

What to choose for comfort and durability

Bandanas typically come in sizes around 22" by 22" or 27" by 27", but most casual styles you’ll find in UK stores are the classic 22" square. Cotton is king for breathability and ease of tying, while silk or silk-blend headties offer a sleek, elevated finish that protects hair and feels luxurious against the skin. If you sweat a lot or plan to wear a bandana for sporty activities, look for cotton blends with a slightly heavier weave — they hold knots better and last longer.

How to Pick Colors and Patterns

Match your mood, not just your clothes

Choosing a bandana is like picking a flavor: go bold, subtle, or somewhere in between. Solid colors and muted tones are great for weekday wear and smart-casual looks; paisley prints and vibrant patterns suit streetwear and festival outfits. When in doubt, grab a neutral — navy, black, or burgundy — that complements most jackets and denim. Want to experiment? Try contrasting colors to create a focal point; a red bandana against a grey coat pops like a bright brushstroke on a canvas.

Ways to Wear a Bandana

Simple knots, headwraps, and pocket flair

Bandanas are delightfully versatile. Folded diagonally and tied at the back of the neck, they form a classic pirate-style headtie. Tie one around your wrist for an instant rocker vibe, or loop it through a belt for a laid-back, surf-inspired detail. Slip a neatly folded bandana into your jacket pocket for a pocket square alternative that’s casual but intentional. Feeling crafty? Fold it into a narrow headband to keep hair in place or wrap it around a bag strap to refresh a tired tote.

Top UK High-Street Stores for Bandanas

Accessible styles and seasonal picks

If you want fast access and easy returns, UK high-street names stock a solid range of bandanas and headties. ASOS carries a wide mix of branded and in-house designs that suit both trend-led and classic tastes. H&M tends to offer seasonal prints at pocket-friendly prices, making it a great place to experiment without committing. River Island and Next fill the gap between affordable and refined, often offering bandanas in durable cotton blends and contemporary colorways that work well for both casual and smarter outfits.

Where to Find Designer and Premium Bandanas

Investment pieces for a lasting wardrobe

If you want a bandana that feels like an heirloom, head to department stores and designer boutiques. Selfridges and John Lewis stock silk and designer-collaboration pieces that elevate your look instantly. For branded options, keep an eye on high-end labels that release limited-run prints — they cost more, but a true silk headtie will last years and age beautifully. Designer bandanas often feature finer stitching and a slightly larger size, giving you more styling options.

Marketplaces and Independent Sellers

Unique finds and handcrafted charm

Sometimes the best bandana is one that feels personal. Online marketplaces like Etsy UK host independent makers selling hand-dyed, block-printed, or embroidered bandanas with real personality. Amazon UK offers huge variety and fast delivery if you’re after specific colors or bulk packs. Shopping indie supports creators and often gives you access to unusual fabrics and prints you won’t find on the high street — perfect if you want to stand out at a festival or street-style shoot.

Budget-Friendly Options

Style on a shoestring without looking cheap

On a tight budget? Primark is a go-to for ultra-low prices and seasonal fun prints, while BoohooMAN and PrettyLittleThing often run deals on packs of bandanas so you can buy several colors without breaking the bank. Multipacks are great for changing up styles daily or for group outfits at events. Remember: inexpensive doesn’t mean disposable — choose 100% cotton where possible to avoid items that stretch out or fade quickly.

Styling Bandanas with Different Outfits

Casual days to dressed-up nights

Bandanas can transition easily between outfit types. Pair a light-colored bandana with distressed denim and white sneakers for a relaxed weekend look. For a smart-casual twist, tuck a silk headtie into the lapel pocket of a blazer as a substitute for a pocket square. On warmer days, use a bandana as a hair tie or neck kerchief to add a dash of color without overheating. Think of bandanas as miniature canvases that can either harmonize with your outfit or create purposeful contrast.

Care and Maintenance Tips

Keep your bandanas fresh and vibrant

Treat your bandanas kindly and they’ll repay you with lasting color and shape. Cotton bandanas can usually be machine-washed on a gentle cycle, but to preserve prints and avoid shrinkage, wash in cool water and tumble dry on low or air dry flat. Silk and silk-blend headties should be hand-washed or dry-cleaned to maintain sheen and prevent damage. If your bandana wrinkles, a quick steam or a low-heat iron — with a cloth between the iron and silk — will smooth it out without harming fibers.

Choosing the Right Bandana for Your Face Shape

Subtle tricks that make a big impact

Believe it or not, the way you tie a bandana can influence how your face reads. If you have a round face, try folding your bandana into a narrow headband to add vertical lines. Longer faces benefit from wider folds and bulkier ties that add horizontal balance. For square jawlines, soft fabrics like silk tied loosely help soften angles. These are subtle adjustments, but they can make your styling look intentional rather than accidental — like choosing the right frame for a painting.

Sustainable Choices and Eco-Friendly Materials

Better fabric, better footprint

Sustainability is no longer niche — it’s mainstream. Look for organic cotton bandanas, recycled-fabric blends, or upcycled options from independent UK makers. Some retailers and small brands explicitly label their eco-conscious lines; others source deadstock silk or use low-impact dyes. Choosing sustainable pieces often costs a little more upfront, but they tend to wear better and reduce the need for frequent replacements, saving you money and waste in the long run.

Mixing Bandanas with Other Accessories

Layering without clutter

You don’t have to choose between a hat and a bandana — combine them. A bandana under a baseball cap peeking at the back can create a layered, lived-in look. Pair a bandana with a necklace and keep the colors complementary to avoid visual noise. For colder days, a neutral bandana under a wool coat and paired with leather gloves adds warmth and style without feeling fussy. Think of bandanas as an accessory that can either stand out or support other pieces in your outfit.

Where to Shop for Special Editions and Collaborations

Limited runs that turn heads

Keep an eye on stores that frequently drop collaborative items and seasonal capsule collections. ASOS and Urban Outfitters occasionally stock exclusive collabs with streetwear labels, while Selfridges and John Lewis may release curated seasonal collections featuring designer scarves and silk headties. Following shop newsletters or social feeds is a great way to catch limited drops — they sell out fast but make for memorable style moments.

Conclusion: Bandanas and headties are small pieces with big personality. From budget-friendly finds at Primark to silk statement pieces at Selfridges, the UK has options for every taste and wallet. Whether you’re new to the trend or a longtime fan, choosing the right fabric, knowing how to tie and care for your bandana, and picking the right store can make all the difference. Try mixing classic paisley with modern cuts, support independent makers for unique prints, and remember that a single 22" square can reinvent an outfit in seconds. Ready to tie one on and see how it changes your look?