A bandeau (pl. bandeaux, diminutive of meaning "strip") is a garment comprising, in appearance, a strip of cloth. Today, the term most frequently refers to a garment that wraps around a woman's breasts in sports or swimwear, and now it is accepted as the top part of formal wear with pants or a skirt. It is similar to a tube top, but narrower. It is usually strapless, sleeveless and off the shoulder. It is commonly made from elastic material to stop it from slipping down, or is tied or pinned at the back or front. In the first half of the 20th century, a "bandeau" referred to a headdress, in the form of headache bands or headbands, and also to a simple brassiere.