Hey, Bandana Boys and Girls!
One of the most versatile pieces of clothing in our wardrobes today, the bandana can be worn in an infinite number of ways! It’s such a simple design! Just a small square of about twenty inches by twenty inches of cloth. It’s such a simple piece that you may not think about it as something that was invented. But it certainly didn’t come around by accident.
So where did the bandana come from?
The word ‘bandana’ is likely an Americanized version of the Sanskrit word ‘badhnati’ meaning to bind or tie. Originating in Ancient Greece or Ancient Rome, the name found its way into the English dictionary around 1750. The Portuguese language turned ‘Badhnati’ into ‘bandannoe’ which has slowly morphed into the word we all know as ‘bandana’.
Taking after its older brother, the handkerchief (which has an even deeper history), the bandana and hankie are very similar at first glance. Same size. Same shape. They both even have a plethora of uses. the bandana separates itself from its predecessor by its printed cambric construction—a plain-woven material (more often than not, cotton). Handkerchiefs are traditionally made from unprinted linen.
Over the years, bandanas have proven themselves to the world, booming in style and popularity. Not only are they a versatile garment, but they work for a variety of different generations and walks of life. Throughout history, you’d find bandanas on the heads of sailors, farmers, cowboys, bikers, miners, and plenty more types of people…like summer campers!
Break out your bandanas when it comes time to compete in the Color Wars. Bandanas work great for supporting your team’s side in the Color Wars at summer camp. If you’re into horseback riding, they make for a great liner under your riding helmet. Be sure to check out our bandanas for yourself. Stay cool. Stay in fashion. And, as always, thanks for reading, Camp Fans!
- John