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Bandanas and headties have moved from practical kit to fashion staple, and honestly, I think they’re here to stay. Whether you want to hide a bad hair day, add a splash of pattern to a plain outfit, or make a vintage look feel modern again, these versatile pieces do it all. From retro paisley prints to luxe silk headwraps, the UK high street and independent sellers have never offered so many options. Curious how to pick the right one for you? Let’s dive in.
Don’t let the names confuse you—bandanas, headties, and headscarves overlap, but each has its own personality. A bandana is typically a square piece of fabric, a headtie often refers to a pre-stitched wrap or long strip designed for tying, and a headscarf can be any shape that wraps around the head. Think of bandanas as the Swiss Army knife of accessories and headties as the elegant shortcuts for chic, fuss-free looks.
If you picture a bandana in your head, you’re probably thinking paisley. The classic paisley bandana usually measures around 22 inches square and is cotton—breathable, easy to tie, and forgiving when you knot it. It’s the go-to for casual outfits and festival-ready looks.
Silk brings a touch of luxury. A typical silk headtie might be a rectangle about 60 inches long and 10 inches wide, or a square around 27 inches. Silk slips over hair without snagging, glides into elegant knots, and elevates simple outfits instantly. Perfect for date night, smart casual workwear, or protecting hairstyles while you sleep.
Square bandanas (about 22 to 27 inches) are great for tying under chin, around the neck, or over the forehead. Long ties or headwraps (usually 40 to 70 inches) are better for turban wraps and more elaborate styles. Choose based on how much fabric you want to play with.
Looking for where to shop? The UK offers everything from high-street bargains to independent artisans. Below are reliable places to start your hunt for the perfect bandana or headtie.
ASOS stocks a wide range of bandanas and silk headscarves, catering to trends and basics alike. You’ll find everything from cotton paisley squares to printed satin ties. Use filters to sort by price, material, and pattern, and you’ll often spot new styles that match streetwear and high-street trends.
Accessorize is a classic destination for head accessories, offering playful prints and seasonal collections. Their pieces often come in useful sizes—think 22 to 25-inch squares and longer headbands stitched for convenience. If you like coordinated accessories, this is a great place to look.
John Lewis offers reliable fabric choices and understated patterns. Expect cotton and silk options that are built to last, often from well-known accessory brands. Their stock leans toward timeless rather than ultra-trendy, making it a smart buy if you want a piece that stays relevant year after year.
Marks & Spencer has surprisingly good headwear options—soft cotton bandanas, jersey headwraps, and occasional silk pieces. Their designs are practical and often sized to fit, so if comfort and a neat finish matter, check their seasonal ranges.
Urban Outfitters is a playground for trend-led bandanas, quirky prints, and oversized squares. If you want an edgy colour, graphic print, or vintage-inspired bandana to pair with denim and boots, this is the place to experiment.
If you’re after one-of-a-kind prints, vintage finds, or ethically made silk headties, Etsy is unbeatable. Sellers often list exact dimensions—like a 22-inch square cotton bandana or a 65-inch silk wrap—so you know what you’re getting. Buying direct from makers can also mean custom colours or personalised patterns.
Not all bandanas are created equal. Keep these criteria in mind so you don’t end up with something that feels cheap or won’t wear well.
Cotton is breathable and holds knots well; silk slinks and shines. For summer use, cotton or lightweight viscose works best. For a luxe finish that doesn’t frizz hair, opt for silk. Always check the feel—if a piece is too stiff, it may not sit right on your head.
Measure roughly by thinking in inches. A 22-inch square is classic; a 27-inch square gives you more coverage. If you prefer turban styles, look for lengths of 40 inches or more. Also consider your head circumference—most adult heads are around 21 to 24 inches, so choose a size that allows comfortable knots without excess bulk.
Double-stitched edges and neat hems keep bandanas from fraying. Silk pieces often have hand-rolled hems; these look delicate and sit flatter. If you want longevity, prioritise good finishing even if it costs a bit more.
Tying a bandana is half the fun. Here are simple techniques that work on short hair, long hair, or when you want to hide a bad hair day.
Fold a 22-inch square into a triangle, place the long edge across your forehead, and tie at the nape. It’s great for a low-maintenance, iconic look—think denim jacket and ankle boots.
Fold a bandana into a narrow strip about 2 to 3 inches wide, place it over the crown, and tie a small knot at the top or tuck the ends under. It instantly channels 1950s glam without effort.
Use a longer headtie—about 60 inches adds drama. Place the middle at your forehead, wrap ends around the back, cross them, and bring them to the front to knot. Tuck ends under for a polished finish. This style is great when you want full coverage and a statement silhouette.
Fold a square into a triangle and roll it into a band, then tie it loosely around your neck for a chic ascot effect. It’s a smart way to tie an outfit together without wearing the piece on your head.
At times you may need coverage: fold a square into a triangle, bring the long edge under your chin and tie behind the head. It’s practical and adds a rugged twist to your look.
Bandanas and headties are like seasoning for an outfit—used correctly, they lift everything; used badly, they overpower. Here’s how to match them without effort.
Pair a cotton paisley bandana with a white tee and denim. Knot it at the neck or wear it as a headband. The pattern injects personality with minimal fuss, like a spritz of lemon on fish and chips—simple but transformative.
For work, choose silk or muted prints and wear them as a neat headband or a small neck scarf. A 27-inch silk square folded and tied like a tie works well with blazers and smart coats, adding polish without stealing the show.
Go bold—oversized squares, bright prints, and mixed textures. Layer bandanas or pair them with chunky jewellery and boots. This is where freedom rules: the louder, the more fun.
Proper care keeps bandanas and headties looking fresh and prevents bleeding or wear. Think of it as giving your favourite mug a gentle wash so it lasts for years.
Hand-wash silk in cool water with mild detergent, and lay flat to dry. For cotton, machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water, but keep colours separate to avoid dye transfer. Avoid tumble drying—air drying prevents shrinking and keeps hems tidy.
Fold squares neatly and store them flat so the creases don’t become permanent. For long silk ties, loosely roll them and store in a drawer or a breathable pouch to keep them from snagging.
Are you hunting bargains or after investment pieces? Both routes have merit depending on use and attachment. Here’s how to decide.
High-street bandanas are great for trends and experimenting—expect cotton or polyester blends. If you’re switching colours with the seasons, these are the pieces to rotate through your wardrobe without guilt.
Designer silk headties command higher prices but offer superior feel and longevity. If you want something to elevate special outfits, a quality silk tie in a neutral tone will pay off over time.
Sustainable bandanas and headties are increasingly available from UK sellers. Look for organic cotton, low-impact dyes, or upcycled vintage pieces. Small batch makers often share details about sourcing and production, so you can choose accessories that align with your values without sacrificing style.
Want something with a story? Vintage stores, charity shops, and specialist online sellers are treasure troves. Vintage bandanas from the 60s and 70s have unique patinas and patterns you won’t see in mass-produced lines. eBay UK and local vintage fairs often list bandanas with exact measurements, like 23 inches or 25 inches, so you can find the fit you want.
Before you hit buy, run through this quick checklist: material (cotton vs silk), size in inches, edge finishing, returnability (check the retailer’s policy), and whether the print suits multiple outfits. This saves time and keeps you from impulse purchases that end up in the back of your drawer.
Bandanas and headties are small pieces with big impact. From practical cotton squares to luxurious silk wraps, they offer instant style upgrades and creative ways to express yourself. The UK market gives you plenty of choices—from high-street stores like ASOS, Accessorize, and John Lewis to Etsy sellers and vintage shops. With the right fabric, size, and a couple of tying tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be styling like a pro. Try a few different sizes and textures—your next favourite accessory might be just a knot away.
