This $4 accessory is the key to upgrading your outfit. Here are 7 easy ways we're styling it.

Whoever is on the PR team for bandanas deserves a raise.

The humble accessory is everywhere right now, and you'd struggle to find a harder-working piece… except maybe its more glam cousin, the printed silk scarf.

Watch: Fashion experts Leigh Campbell and Lucinda Pikkat break down spring's top trends. Post continues below.

We recently witnessed the birth of a viral new styling trick, the sash belt — where a headscarf is tied around the waist to create shape and add interest to an outfit.

The trend's really come into its own on the influencer scene, and found celebrity fans in Alexa Chung and The Summer I Turned Pretty's Lola Tung.

Zoe Kravitz also co-signed on the return of the bandana during press duties for her new film Caught Stealing in August.

Elsa Hosk, Zoe Kravitz and Alexa Chung wear scarves and bandanas their way in 2025. Images: Supplied.

Consider this all the evidence we needed to embrace all iterations of the scarf in the Mamamia office.

If you've seen bandanas and silk scarves around, but weren't sure how to wear them without feeling like you're playing dress ups, keep scrolling for seven simple ways we're styling this trend.

Ways to wear a bandana and silk scarf.

For entry-level access, start by wrapping a bandana around your neck with some layered necklaces, or simply tie a scarf around the handle of your bag.

My red bandana was an op-shop find, while our Head of Lifestyle, Mollie, got her hands on the $4 Kmart bandana.

Tam, Charlie and Mollie wearing their bandanas. Images: Supplied.

Even easier yet, wrap your bandana or scarf around your wrist like a statement bracelet, or tie it around the strap of your handbag to add personality to a neutral cross-body bag or trusty work tote.

For intermediate trend adopters, you may want to experiment with a printed bandana like Emily in our creative team, who paired hers with retro cat-eye shades.

You can also try a headscarf tied around your neck vintage-style, like our social media producer Zara.

Mamamia's Emily (left) and Zara wear headscarves. Images: Supplied.

Got Copenhagen levels of confidence? You're ready to tackle the sash belt trick.

Take a square scarf, fold it in half so it makes a triangle, and tie it around your waist on the bias. You can layer it on top of a summer dress or over pants.

And don't overthink it — if it feels a little clashy, that's part of the vibe.

You can also use a scarf as a more traditional belt by looping it through your jeans and tying at the front.

Tamara and Kelsey try the sash belt trick. Images: Supplied.

The best bit about trying a scarf out for spring is it doesn't have to blow your budget.

While some trends can be cost-prohibitive (we're looking at you, $1200 thongs from The Row), it's downright refreshing when they're as accessible as this one.

A designer silk option from the likes of Pucci or Hermes will always be a classic investment piece, but you can get a great option on the high street, or score one at your local op-shop for practically pennies.

Shop the trend.

Kmart Hair Scarf, $7.

Image: Supplied.

Lovisa Leopard Fabric Satin Scarf, $25.

Image: Supplied.

MNG Bari Scarf, $25.95.

Image: Supplied.

H&M Pattern Cotton Scarf, $15.

Image: Supplied.

Target Printed Paisley Bandana Square Scarf, $15.

Image: Supplied.

Want more easy, practical fashion advice? Listen to Nothing to Wear, our weekly fashion podcast that helps you get dressed every day. Plus, you can also watch Nothing to Wear on YouTube.

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Feature image: Supplied.