We're Calling It: The Bandana Top Will Be Everywhere This Summer

We're bracing ourselves for a historic summer of socialising, and nothing says "look at me" quite like a going-out top. First came corset sweaters [1], then chic knitwear [2], and now, bandana tops have entered the chat. In case you're looking to further spruce up your shirt drawer, they are the top choice (no pun intended) as far as post-pandemic party-going outfits are concerned — even if they're not technically tops.

If it seems like the current state of fashion is one Y2K trend resurgence [3] after another, that's because it kinda is. From being a wardrobe hero of stars like Beyoncé and Christina Aguilera [4] in the early aughts to becoming a summer 2021 staple for celebs such as Bella Hadid, bandana tops make just as much sense now as they did then. During a time when skin-baring styles are all the rage, trading in your basic tops for bandanas feels like an apt way to finally dress up for the great outdoors.

Plus, if you've ever wanted to get your DIY on [5] without getting super crafty, creating a top out of a non-top is an easy way to do so. At the very least, it gives the accessory a new meaning entirely. And while it's the triangle-shaped tube top that remains the classic style, that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to styling possibilities. For starters, you can create a bandeau by folding your bandana into a rectangle, or tie two bandanas together to create a criss-cross halter top. The list goes on.

Whether you opt to elevate your look with a flashy sequin bandana or keep it casual with denim shorts [6] and flatforms, the bandana top is a study in versatility. Ahead, we've rounded up 24 stylish bandana tops to wear all summer long — however you want.