Once a staple of 80s wardrobes, bandanas are making a comeback, infusing modern outfits with a dash of retro flair and a hint of the rebellious spirit that defined a decade.
The bandana, as it is commonly known, dates back to the late 17th century in the Middle East and South Asia. In fact, the word "bandana" is also thought to derive from Hindi, the translation of which is "tied cloth".
In the 1980s and 90s, the bandana took on new meanings within the emerging streetwear and hip-hop cultures. Tupac Shakur, one of the most prominent figures in hip-hop, frequently wore bandanas, especially tied around his head in a signature style that has since been emulated by countless fans.
The history of bandanas explains that bandanas actually originated in South Asia and the Middle east, the classic paisley patterned ones came from Persia. In the 1970's colorful handkerchiefs were worn by gay men to signify their orientation. In the 70's-80's bandanas were also worn to signify gang affiliation in LA.
But the '90s style of bandana-wearing was actually first popularized in the 1970s, donned by self-proclaimed hippie women and the likes of Dolly Parton. The style was also worn in the '80s by Guns N' Roses singer Axl Rose, though that is an entirely different story.
Black = S&M. Dark Blue = Anal sex. Light Blue = Oral sex. Brown = Scat.
Famous people with bandana
Bret Michaels: The frontman of the rock band Poison is known for his bandana style on his head. Axl Rose: The Guns N' Roses frontman often wore bandanas on his head and wrist in the 80s and 90s.
Riding through dusty terrains or congested city streets exposes bikers to pollutants and debris. Bandanas act as a barrier, keeping dust, dirt, and bugs away from the face, nose, and mouth.
Bandanas. In the '80s, it was all the rage to wear a bandana as an accessory to keep your hair in place. One of the most popular ways to wear one was wrapped around your head, like Princess Caroline did here.
The colors and patterns of bandanas have long carried symbolic meanings across different cultures and communities. In some contexts, red and blue bandanas are associated with street affiliations, while black and white bandanas have represented social justice movements and resistance.
Bandanas have long been a staple of the hippie wardrobe.
Matching your bandana with your #OOTD was the height of style in the '90s, especially on the hip-hop fashion scene.
A wild rag—also known in various regions as a cowboy scarf, necktie, bandana or kerchief—is a large square-shaped scarf made of silk, cotton, or other soft fabrics that is commonly worn by cowboys.
Symbolism and Identity. Bandanas have been used historically to signify membership in certain groups or movements: Cowboys and Outlaws: In American history, cowboys wore bandanas around their necks for practical reasons but also as part of their iconic look.
Bandanas are a versatile piece that anyone can wear. A bandana can surely rock on the look, whether casual, form, sports attire, or others. It turns into an accessory for outdoor fun but transpired to be openly used for many other purposes.
Colors to Avoid:
In most regions of Los Angeles, it's advisable to avoid wearing red or blue bandanas due to their associations with specific gangs. To ensure your safety and avoid misunderstandings, research the prominent biker gangs in your area and determine which colors to avoid based on local color meanings.
It is also used to tie around the neck to prevent sunburn, and around the mouth and nose to protect from dust inhalation or to hide the identity of its wearer. The word bandana stems from the Hindi words 'bāndhnū', or "tie-dyeing", and 'bāndhnā', "to tie".
Whether your bandana is average-sized or extra-large, the easiest way to style it is by folding it in half to resemble a triangle. Then, wrap it around your neck and tie a knot, creating a quick, casual statement.
The handkerchief code (also known as the hanky/hankie code, the bandana/bandanna code, and flagging) is a system of color-coded cloth handkerchief or bandanas for non-verbally communicating one's interests in sexual activities and fetishes.
Grey Bandana Meaning
Wearing a grey bandana is ideal for people who aim to convey a sense of tranquility, composure, and a neutral perspective. Additionally, grey is often linked to maturity and responsibility, symbolizing conservatism and equilibrium.
In a nutshell, it involves wearing different colors of bandanas in your pockets — left or right, respectively, to signal top/dom or bottom/submissive roles — to indicate different kinks, fantasies, and other sexual interests to the world.