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Remember that one accessory that can flip an outfit from "nice" to "memorable" in seconds? For many of us, that’s the humble bandana or headtie. Once a practical piece for keeping hair back, these little squares and long scarves have become a style staple — a pocket-sized mood-lifter. From streetwear to high fashion, they add personality, color, and a touch of nostalgia. If you're in the UK and want to refresh your look without breaking the bank, bandanas are the fastest route to making a statement.
Looking for the best places to buy bandanas? The UK market is surprisingly rich, from high-street favourites to indie boutiques and marketplaces where you can find handmade silk headscarves. Here’s a quick run-through of reliable stores and platforms that carry a wide selection of bandanas and headties for every taste and budget.
High-street retailers like ASOS, H&M, and New Look are your go-to if you want affordable options and the latest trends. ASOS offers a wide range of prints and materials — ideal when you want a fresh bandana for a new outfit. H&M and New Look regularly stock classic paisley prints, bright solids, and lightweight cotton headscarves that are perfect for warm-weather styling. Think of these shops as the supermarkets of accessories: dependable, trendy, and wallet-friendly.
If you want something a bit sturdier or a dressier headscarf, head to John Lewis or Marks & Spencer. Their stock tends to skew towards better-quality fabrics — silk blends and thicker cottons — and refined prints that work well for office wear or evening looks. These stores are great when you want a bandana that will hold its shape and keep looking polished after several wears.
Urban Outfitters and River Island are fantastic if you're chasing curated street-style vibes or on-trend patterns. Urban Outfitters often stocks vintage-style bandanas and trendy headwraps that look great knotted across the forehead or used as a neckerchief. River Island leans more polished but every now and then drops limited-edition prints that feel special — like finding a little treasure on a rainy day.
Need a coordinated look? Accessorize and Oliver Bonas carry bandanas alongside other accessories, so you can match a scarf to your bag, earrings, or belt. These stores are perfect when you want a complete vibe rather than a single piece. Expect a mix of playful patterns and seasonal colourways, excellent for layering accessories without overdoing it.
If uniqueness is your priority, explore Etsy UK, Depop, Rokit, or Beyond Retro. These platforms are treasure troves for hand-printed bandanas, vintage silk headscarves, and retro patterns from the '70s and '80s. You can often find rare prints and one-off pieces here — perfect if you want your bandana to feel less like an accessory and more like a conversation starter. Think of hunting on these sites like rummaging through a stylish attic where every find has a story.
Picking the right bandana isn't rocket science, but a few simple rules can make the difference between looking pulled-together and looking like you threw something on. Consider size, fabric, print, and how you intend to wear it. A bandana that’s comfortable and matches your lifestyle will get worn, while one that’s slightly too scratchy or too small will live at the back of your drawer.
Most classic bandanas come in the 22-inch square range, which is a great all-rounder for tying around the head, neck, or wrist. If you want something larger for full head coverage or a dramatic headwrap, look for rectangles or scarves closer to 35–40 inches long. If you prefer delicate, narrow headties for retro headbands, a strip about 24–30 inches long works well. Always picture how you want to wear it before buying — size dictates style.
Cotton bandanas are breathable, washable, and ideal for everyday use. Silk (or silk blends) gives a luxurious sheen and slips nicely through hair for elegant styles, but it needs a gentler hand when washing. Viscose and polyester blends can mimic silk’s look at a lower price and are often easier to care for. If you have fine hair, silk reduces friction; for rougher textures or outdoor use, go with heavier cotton.
Paisley is the classic, but don’t feel boxed in. Stripes, florals, animal prints, and solid colours all have their moments. If you’re building a capsule wardrobe, choose neutral solid colours or subtle patterns. Want to stand out? Pick a bold print or seasonal colour that complements your skin tone. Remember: a bandana can be a small accent that either blends with or boldly contradicts your outfit — both approaches work if you commit to the look.
Bandanas are like mood rings for your outfit — small but expressive. Here are a few styling ideas to spark your creativity, whether you’re heading to a café, commuting across town, or going out with friends.
Fold a 22-inch bandana into a long strip and tie it across your forehead for a retro yet modern vibe. This look tames baby hairs and gives a sporty-chic edge. For a softer aesthetic, choose silk and let a bit of excess fabric drape at your temple.
Want to spice up a plain tee or blouse? Fold your bandana into a narrow strip and tie it snugly around your neck like a choker. This trick transforms casual shirts into styled outfits — kind of like adding a frame to a painting.
A small knot around the wrist or tied to a handbag strap instantly adds personality. It’s the kind of detail people notice subconsciously — a punctuation mark that signals you care about style.
Use a larger scarf (35–40 inches) to wrap your hair fully, whether you’re protecting curls or making a bold fashion statement. This is brilliant for bad-hair days or when you want a look that's both practical and glamorous, like a movie star slipping through a rainy London street.
Bandanas are low-maintenance but a few habits extend their life. Wash cotton bandanas in warm water and air-dry to avoid shrinkage. Silk deserves handwashing in cool water with gentle detergent or a specialist clean. Avoid heavy bleach; instead, use colour-safe solutions. Iron on low settings for cotton, or steam silk to restore its sheen. Little care goes a long way in preserving vibrant prints and soft textures.
Bandana prices in the UK vary widely. On the low end, expect to pay around £3–£10 for basic cotton bandanas from high-street stores. Mid-range options — ranging from £10–£30 — include branded designs, silk blends, and boutique pieces. Luxury or designer scarves can cost £50 and up. If you’re shopping vintage or on marketplace platforms, you might find rare silk pieces that feel priceless but often sit in the £20–£60 range depending on condition and provenance.
Want to shop responsibly? Opt for organic cotton bandanas, fair-trade silk, or thrifted vintage scarves. Many UK boutiques and Etsy sellers now list fabric origins and production practices. Buying secondhand not only reduces waste but often gives you unique prints you won’t spot on the high street. Think of it as treasure hunting that helps the planet — a win-win.
Here are some practical pointers I wish I’d known sooner: try to visualise how it will be worn before buying; check fabric weight and wash instructions; if shopping online, look for close-up shots of the weave; and don’t be shy about mixing patterns — contrast can be joyful when done carefully. Also, if you’re buying as a gift, choose a neutral pattern unless you know the recipient’s style well.
Before you click buy or head to the till, run through this quick checklist: style goal (casual, work, statement), fabric preference (cotton vs silk), size needed (22-inch square vs larger), price bracket, and sustainability considerations. If your answers line up, you’ll end up with a bandana you actually wear — and that’s the true mark of a smart purchase.
From summer festivals to vintage fairs and street food markets, bandanas are everywhere. Keep an eye on local markets like Spitalfields or Portobello Road for unique finds, and follow UK-based boutiques on social media for pop-up events. These places are where you can try things on, feel the fabric, and discover sellers with stories — making the shopping experience richer than a simple online checkout.
Bandanas and headties are small accessories with outsized style power. Whether you’re after a practical cotton square for everyday use, a glossy silk scarf for special occasions, or a vintage gem that tells a story, the UK market offers options for every budget and aesthetic. Mix textures, experiment with knots, and most importantly, have fun. After all, fashion is at its best when it feels like play.
Conclusion: Bandanas are more than just fabric — they’re a fast and affordable way to communicate mood, polish, and personality. From high-street staples to vintage treasures and sustainable picks, the UK has something for everyone. Try different shapes, materials, and tying techniques, and you’ll soon realise how a small square of cloth can become a signature move.
