Headscarf Troubleshooting

As you journey further into creative headscarf nirvana, you'll come across new tricks and techniques. And you'll no doubt run into challenges. Here are solutions for the most common obstacles to styling headscarves, plus tips for getting the coverage and comfort you want.

Headaches

This is the most widespread difficulty that women have with their beloved headwear. Opt for scarves made of stretch fabrics, as they can be tied snugly without causing discomfort. Favor smaller-sized scarves in lightweight fabrics, tied simply around the head, like the Easy Silk Square Technique. Large, heavy pashmina scarves tied in techniques with towering height in the back will likely cause distress.

Hair Breakage

Avoid tying your scarf too tight. Wear smooth, gentle fabrics that wont snag your hair. Using clips or bobby pins to secure your scarf around the hairline can be a culprit. Use a gentle shampoo and soft, snag-free hair ties, and air dry wet hair as much as possible. It's also fun and helpful to sleep on a silky pillowcase.

Strapped for Time

Check out the No-Sew Pretied Headscarf technique for an easy way to wear triangular and square scarves many times without retying. To quickly tie a rectangular scarf, try the Double Wrap.

I need some height!

Headband-like crowns tied just behind the front edge of the scarf frame your face and lift the scarf look. The Dutch Crown is a great technique. Slipping on a store-bought headband that has some height or texture also works.

Help, my scarves are aging me!

Throughout history, mature women like Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly have worn headscarves in a way that made them look regal and upscale. Updo styles like the Royal Turban and Double Wrap give a flattering, lifted effect.

Avoid styles that sag or droop in the back of your neck, as this is not flattering. Favor scarves made of sophisticated prints or solid colors that complement your skin tone. Don't wear cheap, rag-like scarves; instead choose sumptuous fabrics like silk jerseys and rich burnout velvet. Accent the scarf with earrings and a light hand of makeup, and the graceful self-assurance that only comes with age.

Low back hairline

If you have a low back hairline and you'd like to keep it under wraps, choose scarf-tying techniques that drape down in the back like the Alicia Keys Ponytail and The Butterfly. These are quick, easy styles that work well to cover extra strays.

Glasses

To comfortably pair sunglasses or prescription eyewear with your headscarf, sandwich the arms of the frames between scarf layers, and not underneath the base layer of your headwear. It could also be that the frames themselves are too tight for your head and need adjustment. Consider wearing your sunglasses on the outside of your scarf completely, like an avant-garde Urban Outfitters model.

I hope these tips make your life easier. You matter and your presence here matters. Sign up for the weekly newsletter below for more helpful tips.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. FTC: Affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.