5 Ultra-Stylish Ways to Wear a Bandana on July Fourth
Don’t feel tied to standard stars and stripes. | Images via Pinterest, Man Repeller and Fashion Vibe.
During Fourth of July weekend, expect to see a parade of distressed denim cut-offs, red crop tops and white jeans. For a less literal outfit this Independence Day, consider the iconic bandana. From headbands to bracelets, there are multiple ways to style the paisley print into your holiday weekend wardrobe. Here, five techniques you need to bring the old-school bandana back into the fold.
The Bandana Bracelet
Pioneered by Man Repeller‘s Leandra Medine, the bandana bracelet can be worn alone or mixed in with beaded bracelets, leather cuffs and gold bangles to create an All-American arm party. Tie the bandana once around your wrist to let the ends hang out. Feeling bold? Wrap the bandana multiple times to cover your forearm and achieve the chunky look of multiple bangles sans jingling.
Photo via Man Repeller.
The Bandana Headband
Channel Rosie the Riveter (as seen below and on top model Cara Delevingne) by styling your hair into a high bun or ponytail. Next, fold the bandana into a triangle and tie the ends in a knot at the crown of your head. For a less retro version, turn the knot around so it’s at the nape of your neck.
Photo via Pinterest.
The Bandana Necktie
We’re a bit obsessed with this Western staple, which is typically worn as a loose bib (not intended for lobster dinners) over a casual-cool T-shirt. Consider a more contemporary take on the traditional necktie by folding the bandana into a thick choker. Tip: Avoid wearing this with a cowboy hat to prevent John Wayne comparisons.
Photos via Pinterest, Look de Pernille, Free People.
The Bandana Ponytail
Replace your basic black elastic with a bandana in an unexpected color (we are loving mint green). It’s a win-win: Your ponytail looks prettier and your hair gets a break from your headache-inducing hair tie. The paisley ponytail works best with menswear-inspired pieces like your distressed boyfriend jeans and overalls.
Photo via Free People.
The Bandana Bag Accessory
Perhaps the most understated of the bandana bunch, throwing a bandana around your bag is casual and cool. Secure a bright square around the strap of a structured purse or bucket bag to easily inject some color into your outfit.
Photo via Fashion Vibe.
Psst: After receiving compliments on your subtle tribute to Uncle Sam, share a fun fashion fact with your friends. In 1776, the (very) first First Lady, Martha Washington, actually commissioned a Philadelphia printing company to make the first souvenir bandana for President George Washington. Take that, Betsy Ross.
