This season, we've passed on ragged madras scarves and seersucker pocket squares in favor of something a bit more rustic: the humble bandanna. Sun-washed and kitted out with foulards and other classic motifs, these military-inspired scarves add a rugged twist to summer's classics. Below, three ways to wear them.
As a neckerchief
Worn with T-shirts or Hemingway-style with lightweight sport shrits, the neckerchief is the most casual neckwear man ever dreamed up. But it's just enough to add a shock of color or slight embellishment to your low-key tops.
As a pocket-square
Appropriate all summer long with a vest, a blazer or even your favorite oxford shirt, the pocket-square fold should be as casual as the fabric: Create a "puff” by shoving the bandanna in the pocket, four corners first, so the cloth billows out.
As an "ascot"
Break this out when it's just too damn hot for a tie. Make a neckerchief and then rotate, so the knot is hidden in back. You'll have a loop of fabric, which you can easily twist or un-twist to create volume. Worn this way, bandannas are ultra breathable — plus they give you an extra excuse to leave those buttons undone.