How To Wrap Hair In A Scarf – 27 Awesome Ways To Style
Scarves can be the coolest hair accessory if you know how to style them right.
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Breakfast at Tiffany’s has many iconic scenes. But Audrey Hepburn wearing a scarf and singing “Moon River’ will always be close to our hearts. If you are as enthralled as we are, you are probably wondering how to wrap your hair in a scarf. Well, look no further!
The scarf is a time-transcending hair accessory! Picture a chic woman riding in a classic car with the top down. You probably imagined her in a hair scarf with sunglasses. A scarf wrapped around your head is a timeless and classy fashion statement that still turns heads to this day. Just watch Carrie Bradshaw in the second SATC film.
Head scarves for women are versatile and fashionable accessories that can be styled in various ways! Either tie a ponytail with a scarf, weave it in your braid, or wrap it around your top knot. No matter the day or time, a hair wrap with a scarf can never go wrong! Also, it gives you that old glamorous Hollywood starlight vibe.
Scroll down to learn how to up your scarf game with 27 easy-to-achieve styles with a step-by-step guide making it easier for you, so this will save you time since you don’t have to scroll through countless tutorial videos. You will be sporting a scarf and singing an old-timey song in no time.
Before You Get Started- Short punk hairstyles like a pixie or a buzz cut are easier to maintain and require fewer hair products.
- Round faces should avoid short chin-length punk cuts as they only magnify the roundness.
- Cotton and lightweight scarves made of wool are suitable for wrapping hair as they stay put on your locks.
In This Article
27 Incredible Ways To Tie A Scarf On/Over/With Your Hair
1. French Braid With A Scarf
Sport a super-feminine and elegant look by pairing your regular French braid with a scarf. This adds a pop of color and a spring look that makes your hair look endearing.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Comb
- Scarf
How To Do
- Comb your hair to get rid of knots.
- Pick some hair from right above your ears and divide it into three sections.
- Begin by overlapping the left section onto the center and vice versa.
- Likewise, repeat the step by wrapping the right section over the center section and vice versa.
- Keep adding more hair from the left and right sides and continue braiding until the nape.
- Once you reach the nape, tie the remaining hair in a regular three-strand braid.
- To secure your hair, loop your scarf around the elastic band and tie it.
- Knot your scarf to get a better grip.
2. Retro Side Swept Curls With A Scarf
Fresh, playful, and a little dramatic, this hairdo is eye-catching. It’s quick and easy and you can literally wear it anywhere. The best part is, you hardly need to scroll through countless tutorial videos to know how to wrap hair in a scarf! We have provided it all.
What You Need
- Square scarf
How To Do
- Brush your hair to get rid of tangles.
- Fold the square satin scarf diagonally and tie the loose ends at the nape so that it looks like a headband.
- Add a knot in the middle of the headband by taking the excess fabric and tying it over the previous headband section.
- Lastly, use a curling iron over the lower sections of the hair to get delicate curls.
3. Half Top Knot With A Scarf
Half top knots are one of my favorite hairdos, which is why this is at the top of my list! If you (like me) love the messy boho beach look, simply use your fingers instead of a comb to gather your hair. Trust me, it makes all the difference!
What You Need
- An elastic band
- A scarf
How To Do
- Gather some hair with your fingers from the top and sides of your head.
- Hold it with one hand as you would a half ponytail. With your other hand, pass the elastic band over this section of hair.
- Wrap your hair into a bun. Twist the elastic band and run it over the bun to secure it.
- Tie the scarf at the base of the half top knot, covering the elastic band.
4. Top Knot With A Scarf
Top knots are super versatile and best suited for the hot summer season. They’re perfect for work, parties, and staying cozy at home. Adding a scarf to the top knot only makes it look classier.
What You Need
- An elastic band
- A scarf
How To Do
- If you want a neat bun, brush your hair with a comb, and gather your hair into a mid ponytail. Wrap your hair into a bun and secure it in place with an elastic band. Tie the scarf at the base of the knot to cover the elastic band.
- If you want a messy look, gather your hair into a high ponytail with your fingers. Pass the elastic band over the ponytail once. Twist the band and pull your hair halfway through it, leaving the ends to hang loose. Hold the top knot up and tie the scarf around its base to secure it.
5. Low Ponytail
The low ponytail with a scarf has to be one of the most vintage hairstyles there has ever been! It looks stunning and is incredibly easy to do for a casual hairstyle.
What You Need
- Curling iron or straightening iron
- Elastic band
- Scarf
How To Do
- Style your hair in loose waves with the help of a curling iron or straightening iron to add some volume and texture to it.
- Using your fingers, brush your hair back into a low ponytail and secure it with an elastic band.
- Roll your scarf into a long band. Place the center of the scarf underneath the base of the ponytail. Lift the ends of the scarf and switch them to the opposite sides, wrapping them around the ponytail base. Switch them again before tying a knot at the top.
Quick Tip6. Mid-Level Bun With A Folded Bandana
Time for a fun fact! Did you know that the bandana originated from India? Yeah, it got its name from the Hindi word bhando, which means ‘to tie.’ Pretty culturally awesome, right? The bandana tie also helps to maintain and tame the flyaways.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Comb
- Scarf/bandana
How To Do
- Comb your hair to remove any tangles.
- Gather your hair at the back and tie it into a mid-level bun. Leave the ends of your hair to fall over the bun at the top.
- Lay the scarf on a table and knot it neatly into a long band.
- Place the scarf along the back of your head, and pull the sides to the top of your head. Then, flip the sides and wrap them around to the back of your head.
- Tie a knot at the nape of your neck to finish off the look.
7. Rose Scarf Half Knot
What’s in a rose? Give a girl a rose, and it’ll brighten her day instantly. This rosy way of tying a scarf creates an extremely pretty hairdo. Use a scarf that is contrasting with your hair color to get a vibrant impact.
What You Need
- Scarf
- Hair pins
How To Do
- Pick up some hair from the front and divide it into three sections to be weaved into a braid. Hold the three sections with one hand.
- Hold your scarf at the center and place it underneath the middle section of hair joining each side of the scarf with each of the side sections of hair.
- Begin weaving a regular French braid. Keep adding hair to the side sections until you reach the back of your head.
- Weave the rest of the hair in your hands into a regular braid and secure it at the end with an elastic band.
- Pancake the entire braid and wrap it to form a rose bun. Secure it in place with hair pins.
8. The Full Head Wrap
Give your kinky locks a much-needed break with this fabulous scarf style. This is a perfect example of how a pop of color in your makeup and a scarf can up the beauty of an outfit. You also use it as a protective hairstyle during the dry winter.
What You Need
- Hair pins
- Elastic band
- Square scarf
How To Do
- If you have short hair, simply pin up all your hair so that none of it falls out of the scarf. If you have long hair, tie your hair in a bun at the back.
- Fold your scarf in half to form a triangle.
- Hold the scarf by the sides so that the center of the triangle is downwards. Slide the scarf over your head so that the held ends of the scarf are on either side of your head, and the pointed end of the scarf falls over your head, in front of your face.
- Overlap the held sides of the scarf, twist them around each other, and tie them into a knot at the front. If you have bangs, allow them to fall loose.
- If your scarf is really long, after tying the knot in the front, flip the sides to the back and tie another knot, tucking the ends within the scarf.
- Lift the pointed end of the scarf over the front knot and tuck it within.
9. Rosie The Riveter
Rosie The Riveter wasn’t just one woman. She was a symbol for all the women working in factories and shipyards during World War 2. American feminism knows no better cultural icon. Her scarf hairdo is widely sported by women all around the world.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Scarf
- Comb
How To Do
- Brush your hair to untangle it. Comb it in a high bun or ponytail. If you have straight hair, go for a high bun. A high pineapple ponytail will look amazing on curly hair.
- Spread your scarf on a table and roll it up neatly from one pointed end to the other.
- Place the center of the scarf at the back of your head, below the bun or ponytail. Tie the ends in a knot at the top of your head. Let the ends stick out to resemble a bow.
- If your scarf is really long, loop it around your head a few times before you tie it.
10. The Blended Scarf Bun
This is one of the trendiest hairdos you can sport right now. For all the ladies out there who love sailing or being on a boat, this is the perfect nautical hairdo! You can also use a plain color scarf with this hairdo to get a formal look.
What You Need
- Hair pins
- Elastic band
- Scarf
- Hair spray
How To Do
- Tie your hair in a mid-level ponytail.
- Roll your scarf to form a long band. Tie the ends together, so it resembles a headband.
- Pass the scarf over the ponytail, twist it around the base, and pass it partially over the ponytail, so the ends aren’t pulled through completely. Clip up the ends so that they stay in place.
- Divide the hair that was pulled through the scarf in half to form two Cs. Merge each section of hair to the scarf side near it.
- Loop one scarf and hair side over and through the other.
- Unclip the ends and pin them within the bun. This will make the bun appear bigger.
- Secure the bun with more pins and spritz some hairspray all over it.
11. Curly Hair Vintage Top Knot With Scarf
If you’re in a rush, have no fear! The head scarf is here! There’s something about the vintage style that is captivating. Vintage hairstyles look flawless and are to die for.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Comb
- Scarf
How To Do
- Roll your hair in a messy bun and secure it with an elastic band.
- Roll up your scarf neatly from one pointed end to the other to form a band. Make sure the band is an inch or an inch and a half in width.
- Place the center of the scarf along the back of your head and bring the ends forward. Overlap the ends and twist them. Make a loop with one end and fold the other end while passing it through the loop. Pull both ends to the back of your head and tie a knot. Allow the ends to fall loose.
12. Braid With A Scarf
The braid looks chic all by itself. Adding a scarf to it makes it even more feminine. Pair this hairdo with a flowy dress and get ready to become the belle of the ball.
What You Need
- Hair pins
- Elastic band
- Scarf
How To Do
- Pick up a big section of hair from the back of your head.
- Weave it into a fishtail braid and secure the end with an elastic band.
- Pancake the braid to make it look voluminous.
- Take a small section of hair from one side and pass it through the first stitch of the braid.
- Take some hair from the other side and pass it through the next stitch of the braid.
- Repeat the same until you reach the end of the braid.
- This is called a mermaid braid.
- Tie your scarf at the end of the braid, allowing the ends to hang loose.
13. Multiple Scarves On A Ponytail Braid
Here’s a slick and convenient twist you can add to a simple braid. And the best part? It is super easy to accomplish!
What You Need
- A solid-colored scarf/cloth
- Comb
- Elastic band
How To Do
- Comb your hair back and tie it into a half ponytail.
- Pick up some hair from the sides, join it with the hair from the half ponytail, and tie it into another ponytail.
- Repeat the previous step until all your hair is tied up in the ponytail-braid.
- Take a scarf and cut it into thin rectangular strips.
- Tie the strips around the elastic bands.
14. Braids With A Scarfed Bun
Is your prom coming up? Are you going on a date? This is the perfect young adult hairdo for such occasions! It is classy and stylish.
What You Need
- Hair pins
- Elastic bands
- A scarf
How To Do
- Part your hair down the middle.
- From the front, section off some hair from one side.
- Weave this section into a fishtail braid and pin it at the back of your head.
- Repeat the same on the other side.
- Pancake the braids.
- Tie your hair in a mid-level ponytail. Wrap your scarf around the ponytail once, then roll your hair along with the scarf into a bun.
- Secure the bun with hair pins. Tie the scarf around the bun and let the ends hang loose.
15. Twisted Half Ponytail
Color me scarf-ed and scarf me pretty! This hairstyle is perfect for a simple boho wedding.
What You Need
- Hair pins
- Scarf
How To Do
- Part your hair down the middle.
- Pick up some hair from one side, twist it till the end, and pin it at the back of your head.
- Repeat the same on the other side.
- Pancake the twists to make them look loose and big.
- Wrap the scarf around the hair near the pins and tie it into a knot.
16. Scarfed Braid
Want more volume in your hairstyle? Is pancaking your braid not adding enough volume? Braid it with a scarf to get the voluminous hairdo of your dreams.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Hair pins
- Scarf
How To Do
- Brush your hair back with your fingers and divide it into three sections.
- Wrap your scarf around the middle section once. Join each side of the scarf with each of the side sections.
- Weave the three sections into a braid.
- Secure the end of your braid with an elastic band.
- You can tuck the ends of the scarf into the braid or elastic band or pin them up.
17. Top Scarf
Not sure how to style your hair for a rave or a concert? Go hippie!
What You Need
- Scarf
- Safety pins
How To Do
- Fold your scarf into a triangle. Hold the scarf by the sides, leaving the pointed center side to hang down.
- Place the scarf on your head so that the pointed end of the triangle is hanging at the back of your head.
- Pull the sides to the back and tie them in a knot.
- If you feel the scarf is loose and might come off, you can double knot it or secure it with safety pins.
18. Wrap A Scarf Around A Ponytail
I’ve seen many movies where the heroines have their hair styled like this, and it still catches my eye. This retro hairdo is really cool!
What You Need
- Thin scarf
- Comb
- Elastic band
How To Do
- Tie your hair in a low ponytail.
- Wrap the thin scarf around your head.
- Tie it at the back below the ponytail.
- Let the ends of the scarf hang loose to add to the retro look.
19. Triple Twisted And Scarfed
This is a romantic hairdo that you can sport on a date. Loose twists and a pastel scarf come together to create this pretty and elegant hairdo.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Brush or comb
- Sectioning clips
- Scarf
- Hair pins
- Hairspray
How To Do
- Brush your hair back with a comb or a brush.
- Divide the front of your hair into three sections – two side sections and one center section. Clip up two sections and the rest of your hair, leaving only one side section free.
- Divide that side section in half and twist both halves, individually, in the same direction. Then, intertwine both twists together until you reach the nape of your neck. Secure the twisted braid in place with some hair pins.
- Repeat the same with the other side and front sections of hair.
- Tie all of your hair in a low ponytail and pancake the twists to add volume and dimension. You can remove the pins from the twists once you’ve secured the ponytail with an elastic band as it will give your hairdo more volume and a messier feel.
- Roll your scarf and tie it around the ponytail to cover up the elastic band.
- Spritz some hairspray on the twists to set them in place.
20. Scarf Midway Mermaid Braid
Some people believe mermaids are sweet. Others believe that they’ll eat you to protect their treasure. What I love about mermaids is this hairstyle inspired by them.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Hair pins
- Scarf
- Comb
How To Do
- Brush your hair back.
- Take some hair from the front and sides of your head and weave it into a fishtail braid. Secure the end with an elastic band.
- Take a small section of hair from one side and pass it through the first stitch of the braid.
- Take some hair from the other side and pass it through the next stitch of the braid.
- Keep following these steps all through the braid until all your hair has been tucked in it.
- Pancake the braid.
- Secure the end with an elastic band.
- Take your scarf and tie it around the middle of the mermaid braid.
- You can use pins to secure any loose ends or leave them loose to add a loose and messy touch to your hairdo.
21. Retro Twist With A Scarf
Audrey Hepburn vibes! Can you feel them too? The colorful patterned scarf here adds oomph to the French twist. It is so vintage!
What You Need
- Comb
- Hair pins
- Square scarf
How To Do
- Detangle your hair with a comb. Take some hair from the front and hold it at the back near the crown. Push it up to create a pouf and pin it in place.
- Comb your hair again and gather it at the back. Hold it with one hand as you would a ponytail while holding the end out with the other hand.
- Roll the hair inwards, from the ends towards your head. This will create the French twist.
- If you have long hair, you’ll have hair hanging loose at the end. Twirl the extra hair and tuck it within the French twist.
- Use pins to secure the French twist in place.
- Fold your scarf and wrap it around your head, tying it at the back below the twist.
22.Scarfed Braided Halo
The milkmaid braid has been around since the 1940s. Styling it with a scarf makes for a very sophisticated hairdo for any season.
What You Need
- Hair pins
- Comb
- Scarf
- Elastic band
How To Do
- Brush your hair and detangle it. Part it down the middle and divide it into half.
- Roll your scarf and place its center at the nape of your neck. Pin it down and join each side of the scarf with the respective section of hair.
- Take the left section of hair and divide it into two. The scarf side will act as the third section of the braid. Weave the three sections into a braid. Make sure you don’t weave the braid too tight. Secure it at the end with an elastic band.
- Repeat the same on the other side.
- Lift the left braid, place it along the top of your head, and pin it down behind your right ear.
- Repeat the same with the right side braid.
- Use hair pins to keep the braids and any loose strands in place.
23. Wrapped scarf style for gypsy boho look
The gypsy boho hairdo is back, and it makes a powerful statement. This is the perfect hairstyle for young girls who love emo-gypsy-boho vibes.
What You Need
- Long wrap scarf
How To Do
- Tie your dreadlocks, protective braids, or loose hair in a half top knot. Pancake the half top knot to make it look more voluminous.
- Wrap your long scarf around your head a few times. Tie it at the back and leave the ends to hang loose.
24. The Bandana
The bandana is a revolutionary accessory. Once people started sporting it, they never stopped. Whether it is for style or utility, the bandana is easily a must-have in anyone’s cupboard.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Bandana
How To Do
- Gather your hair in a low ponytail or a mid-level bun.
- Fold your bandana to form a triangle. Place the base of the triangle along your front hairline and let the pointed end hang at the back.
- Tie the sides of the bandana at the back, below the bun or ponytail. If your bandana is long, wrap it around the ponytail or bun a few times and before tying it.
25. The Minnie Mouse
I’ll be honest, I’ve never been a fan of Mr. and Mrs. Mouse. But this bow-inspired hairstyle is super adorable!
What You Need
- Brush
- Blow dryer
- Square scarf
How To
- Wash and blow dry your hair.
- Flip your hair forward and fluff it up.
- Roll your scarf into a band. Flip your hair forward again and place the center of the scarf at the nape of your neck. Flip your hair back and tie the sides of the scarf in a knot at the top of your head, leaving the ends to stick out and resemble a Minnie Mouse bow.
26. The head wrap style
African women have an iconic style. Ranging from braids to knots to scarves, their hairstyles are always a sight to behold.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Scarf
How To Do
- Tie your hair in a pineapple ponytail.
- Hold two opposite corners of your scarf.
- Place the center of the scarf at the back of your head, below the pineapple ponytail.
- Bring the ends of the scarf forward and tie a double knot at the top of your head. Tuck the ends in and pan the scarf open at the back, so it covers your head.
- Pancake the knot of the scarf to open it up.
27. The low wrap style
This hairstyle has such cool-cat vibes! It’s the perfect remedy for beating the heat.
What You Need
- Elastic band
- Scarf
- Hair gel
How To Do
- Apply some gel to your hair to make it look sleek.
- Comb your hair back and tie it in a low bun.
- Wrap your scarf around your head, aligning one end of the scarf with the curve of your head in the front. Gather the rest of the scarf at the back and wrap it around the low bun to hide it entirely.
- Tuck the ends of the scarf within the scarfed bun. You can also use safety pins to secure the ends.
So now you know how to style your locks with a scarf. But you should also know how to wrap the scarf properly so it does not break or damage your hair in any way.
How To Prevent Damage From Hair Wrapping?
- Use a satin or silk scarf to minimize friction and breakage.
- Clean and moisturize your hair before wrapping to prevent dryness and brittleness.
- Avoid wrapping too tightly, as this can pull the hair and roots causing hair loss or breakage.
- Avoid tying the scarf only in one area to prevent constant strain there.
- Make sure the scarf is clean and free of dirt or oils to avoid transferring impurities to your hair.
- Lastly, avoid styling your hair in tight hairstyles with the scarf to often.
These practices will help you maintain healthy, undamaged hair while using hair wrapping as a protective technique.
Infographic: 6 Most Creative Ways To Style Your Hair With Scarfs
Scarfs are not essentially a hair accessory but that’s stopped no one from utilizing it as one. The most common ways to use it are as a bandana or as a ribbon to tie up hair in a ponytail or a bun. However, styling your hair with a scarf can be way more fun!
Check out this infographic to learn about the most creative styles you can achieve when you combine your favorite scarves with your beautiful tresses.
Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
Quick TipHow amazing is it that there is so much you can do with a piece of fabric! The way it can transform your entire look is nothing less than sorcery. So go, get yourself a bunch of scarves in different colors and patterns to go with every outfit in your wardrobe. You can wear matching scarves or pick up contrasting colors. Try these unique and stylish tips, tricks, and techniques to wrap your hair in a scarf and give yourself a vintage makeover. Also, share these ideas with your gang and have a themed party or a fun brunch gathering. Make your scarves a part of your signature looks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does wrapping your hair damage it?
Wrapping your hair may protect it from damage caused by environmental factors like pollution, sun rays, etc. However, covering your hair tightly with a head wrap for long may make your hair fragile. Therefore, wrap moderately and only for shorter periods, as your hair needs to breathe too.
Can I use a scarf to protect my hair while sleeping?
Yes, you can use a scarf to protect your hair while sleeping as it helps maintain the natural texture of hair and keeps the moisture locked in to improve hair health.
How long should I leave the scarf on my hair?
Leave the scarf on for around an hour on your hair. Also, tie it low and loose for better hair protection. If the scarf is a part of your hairstyle, you can leave it on until you get back home.
What type of scarf should I use to wrap my hair?
Use a silk scarf or a bandana to wrap your hair. This fabric helps tame frizz and reduce hair damage.
How do I prepare my hair before wrapping it in a scarf?
Wash your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner, then apply a hair serum if needed. If your hair tends to get tangled easily, apply a detangling spray. If you are heading out into the sun, apply a heat protectant.
Can a scarf protect hair from the sun?
Yes, a scarf can protect hair from sun damage by covering the tresses and reducing exposure to direct UV rays.
Key Takeaways
- You zhuzh up French braids, ponytails, and top knots by simply tying a scarf around them.
- You can also wear it as a knotted headband or full head wrap for a vintage and chic look.
- You can try using a scarf as one of the strands for your braids for a voluminous hairdo.
- Avoid wrapping it too tightly and ensure it is made of satin and silk material to minimize friction and breakage.
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ShareLearn four easy ways to tie a headscarf and look stylish in the video below. From the classic turban to the modern bow, you will be ready to rock any look after watching it!
