bandje

Bandje is a Dutch diminutive of band and refers to a narrow strip or loop of flexible material that is worn around or attached to something. It can be a decorative item or a functional component, and the term covers a wide range of forms, from tiny elastic strips to wider, sturdy straps. Bandjes are typically made from textile, leather, metal, plastic or rubber, and they can be closed or secured in various ways, such as with a buckle, snap, Velcro, knot, or simply by elasticity.

Common uses include both fashion and function. In everyday wear, bandjes appear as armbands or bracelets (armbandjes), watch straps (horlogebandjes), hair bands (haarbandjes) and headbands. In practical contexts, bandjes serve to identify or organize. Examples are naambandjes (name bands) at events or in hospitals, security or admission bands at venues, and kabelbandjes (cable ties) used to bundle cables and wires. In the medical and sports fields, bandjes may provide support, stabilization or secure items during activity.

The versatility of bandjes explains their widespread presence in households, workplaces and public spaces. They range from simple decorative accents to indispensable tools for securing, labeling and organizing objects. The term is broadly applicable and often paired with a material or purpose to form specific names, such as horlogebandje, kabelbandje or haarbandje.