The Headscarf Is Back in Fashion — Here Are 5 Ways To Wear It
The headscarf is back in fashion, baby, and you bet we’re excited! Truth be told, it never left (at least for us). But you’ve probably been seeing more of it these days with the likes of models Bella Hadid and Elsa Hosk and singer Gracie Abrams punctuating their outfits with an iteration of it.
Also known as the bandana, the headscarf has been in and out of trends list in the past several decades. We have a feeling it’s bound to stay. And why not? It’s versatile and transeasonal. While one may associate it with sunny days by the beach, it can and does function well as a winter accessory too.
It comes in different prints, patterns, and fabrics. Silk scarves with intricate patterns are a hit during summer, while cashmere scarves in bold, dark colours are a great choice for winter.
The history of head scarves
There are various reasons why people wear a headscarf (or headwrap). Some may use it for style while others may wear one as part of their culture or religion.
For instance, women of Muslim faith are known to wear scarves on their head called the hijab. Meanwhile babas or grandmothers in Russia are known for wearing babushkas or head kerchief to not only protect their hair but also symbolise their new status in society after they get married.
Others wear it as hairstyle protection too. Or a piece to help hide frizziness and waking up from the wrong side of the bed.
Meanwhile, the headscarf was a sartorial choice for iconic, stylish women of the ‘50s and ‘60s such as Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy. For many of us who grew up in the ‘90s and Y2K, it was a style staple that accentuated our frilled blouses and denim jeans perfectly, as inspired by Christina Aguilera and Destiny’s Child. The red bandana with paisley print was a must-have!
How to wear a headscarf fashionably
If you’re looking to join the ranks of Hollywood stars wearing this headwear piece and looking effortlessly chic, here are fun and easy ways to wear one fashionably.
Bandana
Singer Gracie Abrams wears a bandana, a headwear piece she's starting to become a staple in her casual, streetwear looks. (Photo: Instagram/@gracieabrams)
Starting off with the most common way to style a headscarf. Tie it at the back of your head with your hair down or in a low bun. Either way would give you a fun, chic look.
Headband
By now you already know how a headband can instantly take your look to the next level. (If you’re new here, yes, that’s true! A headband — no matter if it's minimalist or embellished — can make your style uniform more interesting.) So why not use a headscarf as a headband? The flowiness of the material adds a carefree touch to it too.
Hair ribbon
Always have your hair in a pony? Ditch the scrunchies and opt for a headscarf to really amp up your look.
Babushka
This style is high-fashion and mysterious. If you want to exude both, definitely go for this and walk the streets like an old Hollywood icon.
Turban
Shop the trend
Ready to add this headwear piece to your style rotation? Here are some pieces we know you'll love to wear again and again.
Long headscarves
These are great to wear as headbands or hair ribbons. No folding necessary!
Square headscarves
Looking for pieces that will help you ace the bandana and babushka styles? These square styling scarves are perfect.
