Alice Tate - How to Tie a Headscarf: 30 Simple, Modern Styles

Hair spray, Elastics/hair bands, Hair doughnut (for maximum volume on topknot), Bobby pins

1: The KNOTTED WRAP

An easy-to-master style that works great with braids. Pair with sunnies, earrings, and a bold lip to add a touch of glamour.

We used a 28 75-inch (70 190-cm) scarf to create this look.

Tie your hair into a tight topknot.

Fold a long, rectangular scarf in half lengthwise.

Position the folded edge of the scarf at the base of your head, just above the nape of your neck (1).

Tightly pull the rest of the fabric over your head to the center of your forehead (2).

Separate the two ends of the scarf and twist together until they resemble a rope (3).

As you do so, start wrapping this rope into a bun at the top of your head. When you reach the end, tuck the loose ends under the bun to secure (4). Pin in place to keep it secure.

For the finishing touch, add earrings to bring the whole look together.

2: The TUCK-AWAY WRAP

A wrapped up, sophisticated style that works for everyone and is best done with a large, rectangular scarf. Add a statement lip, specs, or earrings for a polished finish.

We used a 35 70-inch (90 180-cm) scarf to create this look.

Using a long scarf, position one of the long edges at the front of your head, along the hairline.

Take the ends over your ears and cross over at the back of your neck (1).

Wrap one end of the fabric (folded flat) around your head, secure in place (2), then wrap the other side around your head, starting slightly farther back to add a little height (3).

Tuck the end of the fabric underneath to secure in place (4).

3: The HEADBAND

A versatile style that transforms a simple updo into a more finished look. Works best with a long, thin strip scarf. Looks great with statement earrings.

We used a 35-inch (90-cm) square scarf to create this look.

Tie hair up into a high ponytail or bun.

Using a thin, long scarf or a scarf folded into a neat long strip, wrap the fabric tightly around the head (1), securing at the nape of the neck with a knot (2).

Tuck the ends of the fabric underneath to neaten and secure in place (3).

4: The RIBBON BRAID

Transform a simple braid into a sartorial statement by weaving in a printed headscarf. Easy-peasy wow factor.

We used a 28-inch (70-cm) square scarf to create this look.

Tie the hair into a low ponytail and tie the scarf around the elastic to cover the band (1).

Separate the hair into three strands as you would a braid, adding the two ends of the scarf into the outer sections (2).

Braid the hair loosely, incorporating the fabric as you go (3).

When you get to the end, either tie with an elastic (4), or, if there is enough of the fabric left, you can wrap the ends of the scarf around the braid to secure and fasten into a bow.

Pull out strands and wispy bits to give a more relaxed and effortless look.

5: The PARISIAN TWIST

Add a touch of Parisian chic to your ensemble with this relaxed, twisted band style. This also works well with a low, loose ponytail.

We used a 28 70-inch (70 180-cm) scarf to create this look.

Fold a rectangular scarf to create a long band or use a long, thin scarf for this look.

With the hair down or in a low, relaxed ponytail, take the scarf to the nape of the neck.

Bring both ends up, over the ears, until they cross at the top of the head (1).

Then twist at the forehead until they are, once again, in line with the band (2 & 3).

Bring the ends back down, past the ears, to knot securely at the back (4 & 5).

Pull out any loose, wispy strands to give a more relaxed finish.

6: The BOHO BOW