A scarf, bandana, or neckerchief is a timeless accessory. I’ve even started a collection of them as seen in my capsule wardrobe staples. They come in various shapes, colors, and sizes to meet your needs and personal style. There are many different materials a scarf can be constructed of, but I always try to stick to natural fibers. The natural fiber I love most for this accessory is silk.
Why silk? My favorite way to style a silk scarf is in my hair. The smoothness of this fiber reduces friction and helps reduce frizz. My love for silk goes beyond an accessory. I also have a silk bonnet and pillowcase to continue reaping the benefits of silk and its effect on hair and skin. Silk is also highly acclaimed for its antimicrobial properties. Although I have suspicions about this claim, I think it is still a good justification for utilizing a silk scarf my second favorite way, tied to my purse.
Shawl
Tying a silk bandana or scarf around your shoulders is the perfect way to cover up. Especially in the summer, you may wear a tank top or bikini top and run in and out of freezing stores and restaurants. Throwing a shawl-like material on your shoulders is the perfect way to stay warm, while it is still easy enough to rip off when it’s time to soak in the sun again.
If you are also trying to have your Euro girl summer, I think this is a great item to bring along as you gallivant through the cities. A shoulder covering is an essential piece if you plan on entering any of Europe’s many grand cathedrals. A silk scarf is also great as it packs down small enough to keep in a purse, but also looks great tied to your bag as a pop of color.
Tied to a Purse or Bag
Tying a silk scarf around your bag is probably the easiest way to style a silk scarf. Styling a scarf like this is the perfect opportunity to utilize a scarf that has a bright pop of color, or maybe is an awkward shape or size that you find difficult to deal with otherwise. Especially if you have a neutral-colored bag, a colorful silk scarf this is the perfect accent.
Adding a silk scarf to the handle of your bag and wrapping it around the entire length of the handle is my preferred way of tying it. If you have a luxury bag, I would encourage this way of styling a silk scarf because it does offer some protection to the handle of your bag as well.
I also love having a scarf tied to the side of my bag handle as well. For this effortless look, you should consider the length and size of your silk scarf. As seen in the picture, I use an oversized bandana to tie on this bag, but it creates a lot of risk. The fabric may drag or snag on something, depending on where you are trying to wear this.
Hair Accessory
There are about a million different ways to style a silk scarf or bandana in your hair. In this article, I detail just my go-to styles. These styles are perfect for when you are perhaps having a bad hair day, or are just looking to spice up a basic hairstyle. I don’t have much patience in the mornings before work for an intricate braid, but I love that look as well!
For larger silk bandanas I love using them as a headband. The peak of fabric underneath the hair adds interest to your hair, without even having to style your hair. The trick with this is to make sure the bandana is folded so it is thin enough and manageable enough to wear in your hair. To achieve this look, I start by wrapping the bandana around my head as if I am making the headband, and tying it at the top. I then take the bandana off and put the bandana on just like a normal headband. This time, however, I place the knot at the bottom, underneath my hair.
My second favorite way of styling a silk scarf in my hair is by doing a simple knot around a basic style, such as a ponytail or bun. Begin by making your ponytail or bun to your liking. Go for a slick back if you’re looking for something polished and elegant. Although I love that look, I’m often in a rush and just throw my hair up and leave it as it lies.
Either way, it’s surely a way to elevate a simple look. Adding a silk scarf to a slick back makes the look intentional and thoughtful, whereas adding a silk scarf to a messy updo makes you look like you tried, even though you only spent 30 more seconds on your hair that day.
Whichever way you decide to style a silk scarf, your look will surely stand the test of time. Bring a silk scarf or bandana out on a city excursion or to the beach to use as a cover-up or a quick way to throw your hair up. There are a million more ways to style a silk scarf, so don’t think the versatility ends with this blog post. If you’re in the market for a silk scarf, ensure to be on the lookout for sales, vintage markets, and thrift stores. There is always a surprise waiting for you if you’re willing to have some patience and put in the work!
