6 Stylish Ways To Wear A Headscarf - Byrdie

Over the past few years, the '90s and Y2K have made a major style comeback in everything from footwear to denim and especially accessories (saddle bags, we're looking at you). One of the biggest trends in the hair accessory department specifically is the return of the headscarf. The likes of Megan Thee Stallion, Dua Lipa, and Kendall Jenner have all embraced the accessory in recent seasons, but our favorite part is the versatility. Think: the classic headband look, bandana ties, braiding; there are countless ways to upgrade your style with a headscarf—and you just may be tempted to try them all. Read on to learn all about the headscarf as an accessory including how to tie a scarf fashionably. Plus, see six ways to wear it to fit any aesthetic.

History of the Headscarf

Hair scarves have been around about as long as time itself, and they've served multiple purposes among various communities. Beyond a fashion statement, they're often popular for their ability to protect hair from the elements (especially natural curly textures), plus they hold religious significance among Muslim women and other groups. Those who wear headscarves for cultural reasons, especially Muslims, have often faced prejudice for their accessories, while others get to wear them consequence-free, so it's important to be mindful and respectful—and not to wear a hair scarf in a way that might be appropriative.

Before their Y2K popularity, hair scarves were popular among Old Hollywood stars like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe—especially when it came to riding in convertibles and other travel-related purposes. The scarves served the functional purpose of keeping hair out of the face as well as protecting styles from the elements, and their effortlessly chic appearance came as a bonus that brought them to icon status. These days, headscarves are serving a similar purpose, keeping hair in place while also offering the ability to conceal a less-than-ideal hair day and/or instantly take your look to the next level.

Just as with snoods, cashmere scarves, and skinny scarves, the hair scarf has a variety of styling options, ranging from full-coverage looks to varieties that accentuate and complement your hairstyle. While you'll find scarf styling inspiration all over social media these days, we're making it even easier by offering a crash course of some of the best options below.

How Do You Wear a Headscarf?

Headband

Headscarves are one of the easiest hair accessories to try with minimal styling, especially when you wear one as a headband. This style can take any look to the next level in seconds by providing a playful splash of color. If you're using a larger scarf, fold it a few times before placing it around your forehead, then tie it at the nape of your neck. 

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• Dior

• Chan Luu

• Jessie Zhao New York

Bandana

A bandana is one of the most common ways to style a vintage silk scarf, and you can wear it as a half-head wrap with your hair down or in a low bun. To achieve this look, fold your scarf halfway on the diagonal to make a triangle, then hold the corners and gently drape the scarf around your head, with the point of the triangle aiming down your back. Finally, tie the scarf at the back of your head.

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• Todd Snyder

• Cee Cee's Closet

• Madewell

Babushka

Whether your goal is to have an air of mystery, protect your hair from the wind, or bring some old Hollywood glamour into your life, the babushka-inspired scarf look is the way to go. Fold your scarf in half, pulling one corner over the other, then place it over your head and tie it under your chin. The wind has nothing on you today—and neither does anyone who tries to get in your way.

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• Leonard Paris

• Lauren Ralph Lauren

• Saint Laurent

Pony Up

Whether you usually wear your ponytails high or low, a scarf is a timelessly elegant way to take it to the next level. Start by folding your scarf in half on the diagonal to make a triangle, then fold the point so you're holding the straight edge. From the opposite side, roll the scarf in until you have a long, even band. Some scarves even feature their own scrunchie to do all the heavy lifting for you.

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• Burberry

• Two Bees London

• & Other Stories

Turban

Similar to the bandana style, tying your headscarf like a turban provides a solid amount of coverage. Some turban-style scarves even feature decoy strips of fabric to give the appearance of a perfect knot, when in reality you simply slipped it onto your head.

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• Eugenia Kim

• Autumn Adeigbo

• Lost Pattern x Leatherology

Braid It In

If you're looking to add a pop of color and volume to your favorite braided hairstyles, try integrating your favorite scarf. To achieve this look, fold your scarf and divide your hair into three sections for braiding. Tie your folded scarf once around the middle section, and align the two ends with your two side sections. Start braiding, then secure the ends with a hair tie once you're done.

Byrdie Tip

Finding a thinner scarf will make the braiding process a lot easier, though this look is possible to accomplish with just about any scarf you have.

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• Wrap Life

• Pucci

• Coach