Silk Headscarves Are The Chic, European-inspired Accessory That Never Really Went Out Of Style

From all-over head wrap to bandana to ponytail accoutrement to headband and back to the insouciant old-Hollywood under-the-chin tie, the silk headscarf has undergone many transmutations over the past few decades. However, one thing is certain; the silk headscarf has never really gone out of style. Toeing the line between classy and fun, even the most mundane outfit can be significantly elevated by the addition of a silk headscarf.

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With the ability to elevate even the most mundane outfit, a silk headscarf is the timeless style trend you need to try.

How to wear a silk headscarf

Whether you fully embrace the trend by making like A$AP Rocky and wearing your headscarf tied under the chin like a babushka or dip your toe into the water by starting with a silk twilly hanging from your ponytail, there’s a silk headscarf style out there for you. Here are the best ways to tie a silk headscarf.

Under the chin

For the ultimate old-Hollywood vibe, fold a square silk scarf in half, place it over your head, and secure it with a knot under your chin. To avoid channelling a babushka rather than a Hollywood starlet, ensure a little of your hair peeks out from under the front to frame your face. The ideal look to wear on a breezy drive around the French riviera (or anywhere, really). 

The elevated ponytail

To take the humble ponytail bun to the next level, weave a silk scarf through your ponytail holder and tie it firmly so it stays in place, letting the ends hang out. This style works best with a silk twilly (a long, narrow scarf), however, you can achieve this look in a pinch by folding a standard square silk scarf diagonally until you’re left with a thin silhouette. For an even more elevated take on the look, braid the silk scarf through your hair to form a plait. 



The bandana

Let your hair hang loose or style it in a low bun or ponytail. Fold a square silk scarf in half diagonally to create a triangle, and tie the ends into a knot at the back of your head. 

As a headband

A simple yet classic look, tie a long silk twilly around your head, securing the ends in a knot just under your hair. 

The neck scarf

Not technically a headscarf, we know. However, tying a silk scarf around your neck is an easy way to add a little European nonchalance to your look. To achieve the look, fold a large square scarf diagonally to form a thinner silhouette, then tie loosely around your neck. Alternatively, for a more put-together look, try double wrapping your silk scarf around your neck and tying the ends together in a bow.  

The best silk headscarves to buy

From baroque to floral and square to twilly, these are the best silk headscarves to add to cart.

1. Versace Renaissance-Print Silk-Twill Scarf

how to wear a silk headscarf

Masters of the baroque print, Versace’s take on the silk headscarf is for all the Renaissance girls.

2. Burberry Logo-Print Silk-Twill Scarf

how to wear a silk headscarf

Heritage house motifs meet Burberry’s new TB monogram in this silk headscarf.

3. Etro Arizona Paisley-Print Silk-Satin Scarf

how to wear a silk headscarf

Famed for its paisley prints, Etro’s take on the silk twilly is the perfect accompaniment to the summer ponytail, bun, or plait.

4. Rubi Versatile Scarf

how to wear a silk headscarf

This colourful striped iteration makes for a vibrant (and very budget-friendly) option for summer.

5. Trenery Mani Scarf

how to wear a silk headscarf

This two-toned floral print exudes sophisticated appeal.


Words by Arabella Johnson
Feature image courtesy of Kat Irlin for Vogue Arabia