bandelette

Bandelette is a French noun derived from the diminutive of bande, meaning “strip” or “band.” The term is used in several fields to denote a narrow, elongated piece of material, often serving a functional or decorative purpose.

In medicine, a bandelette refers to a small bandage or strip of gauze employed to secure dressings, support minor injuries, or apply topical medication. Historically, bandelettes were woven from linen or cotton; contemporary versions are commonly made of elasticized, breathable fabrics that conform to body contours while allowing ventilation.

The textile and fashion industries use the word to describe narrow ribbons, trims, or woven strips incorporated into garments, accessories, or upholstery. Such bandelettes may be embellished with prints, embroidery, or metallic threads and serve both aesthetic and structural roles, such as reinforcing seams or adding visual detail.

In printing and graphic design, a bandelette can denote a thin, colored strip applied to a page layout to separate sections, highlight headings, or create visual rhythm. In this context, the term is synonymous with “rule” or “stripe” and is often specified in millimeters for precise typographic alignment.

The term also appears in astronomy, where a bandelette is a narrow band of light observed on certain planetary or lunar features, particularly in low‑contrast imaging. These bands can indicate variations in surface composition or topography and are useful in comparative planetary studies.

Overall, the concept of a bandelette— a slender, functional strip— bridges multiple disciplines, reflecting its versatility as both a practical tool and a decorative element.