A scarf is one of the easiest ways to change up your hair without heat, product or a trip to the salon. It hides a second-day wash, dresses up a plain ponytail, and protects your strands while it is at it. Here are six hair scarf styles to try, and the fabrics that treat your hair best.
Why silk and satin are best for hair
Before the styles, a word on fabric. A silk or satin hair scarf glides against the hair rather than roughing up the cuticle, which means less friction, less frizz and less breakage than cotton or rough weaves. If you are wrapping your hair often, or overnight, silk and satin are worth it.
1. The headband
The quickest style. Fold a scarf into a thin band, lay it under your hair at the nape, and tie a knot or bow on top of your head. Leave it showing for a retro look or tuck it under for a cleaner finish.
2. The wrapped ponytail
Tie your hair in a ponytail, then wrap a folded scarf around the base and finish with a small bow so the tails hang beside the hair. It hides the elastic and adds a soft detail.
3. The bun wrap
Twist your hair into a low bun and wrap a scarf around the base, or thread it through and tie it over the top. It frames the bun and looks polished in seconds.
4. The half-up tie
Take the top section of your hair, secure it, and tie a thin scarf around the gather. A pretty, casual way to keep hair off your face.
5. The braid ribbon
Weave a narrow scarf or twilly through a plait as you braid, then tie it at the end. It adds colour and a vintage feel to a simple braid.
6. The full head wrap
For full coverage or a bad-hair day, drape a square scarf over the head and tie the ends at the nape or on top. It doubles as a light head scarf when you want to be covered.
A few tips
Slightly damp or textured hair grips a silk scarf better than freshly brushed dry hair. Keep a couple of hair scarves in colours that suit you, and you will always have a five-minute hairstyle ready to go.