12 Scarf Hairstyles to Try This Summer
3 min readListen, we all get the occasional bad hair day. And even though your first instinct might be to simply pull it back with a scrunchie or a claw clip, why not embrace the situation with a scarf instead? Summer is all about that effortless vibe, and a silk scarf captures that same energy in a stylish form.
Before their Y2K revival, scarf hairstyles seemed like the domain of Hollywood’s elite and the most style-forward among us. Think Jackie Onassis, Grace Kelly, Rita Moreno, and Audrey Hepburn, who were often seen wearing a silky wrap while traveling or riding in a convertible.
But beyond making a fashion statement, women across the globe have long worn them for functionality, like protecting their hair from environmental stressors, or for religious and cultural reasons. Women in the SWANA region, for example, have always been at the forefront of hair scarf style, setting trends that women in other parts of the world often end up adopting.
Today we’re seeing everyone from Hailey Bieber to attendees at Copenhagen Fashion Week embracing the accessory. And if you’ve ever felt intimidated about how to wear one, I promise they’re far simpler than they look. Ahead, some inspiration for the best scarf hairstyles.
Braided
Braiding a scarf into your hair instantly adds a dose of whimsy. Choose a print that contrasts with your hair color so it truly stands out—otherwise, it risks getting lost within your strands.
Headband
A silk scarf as a headband makes sense if you want to keep your hair fully away from your face. Add a cute top knot for a fun statement detail.
Pony tie
Perhaps the simplest way to wear a scarf is tied around your ponytail or braid, as pictured above. Choose between a short or long scarf for added depth.
Babushka
Tied under the chin, the babushka-inspired scarf look evokes a touch of mystery and Old Hollywood glamour. It’s become one of the most popular styles to wear thanks to its simple yet statement-making look.
Top knot
Similar to a headband, this top knot style hides hair away from the face—but instead of just keeping it back, it completely conceals it. The look feels sophisticated yet fun.
Cap
The cap style has been popular this season. It provides some coverage and adds extra flair to a simple outfit like the above button-down and jeans.
Bandana
Another popular style that reminds us of the early 2000s. Most hair is exposed with this style, and similar to a headband, it only keeps the face-framing layers tucked back.
Full-coverage low bun
For complete coverage, consider wrapping your head entirely with the scarf and creating a low bun effect. It’s elegant and fuss-free.
Veil
This bandana style is much longer in the back, so it ends up resembling a short veil. We love how the crochet fabric emulates chic summer vibes.
Headband wrap
Worn as a headband in the front and tied around your ponytail in the back, this scarf style gives functionality a whole new meaning.
Babushka 2.0
Similar in form to the original babushka style, this one is worn over a shorter hairstyle, exposing more hair in the front. It’s more common for a shoulder-length cut to peek through than for longer strands.
Bobby pinned
This look says glam in the most understated way. It all comes down to keeping the hair fully slicked back, with only intentionally styled baby hairs peeking through. With careful positioning, bobby pins add a little edge to the overall hairstyle.
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