Headscarves are back—and they’re a style power move. From retro knots to sporty chic, here’s how to wear 2025’s most versatile fashion comeback.
The humble headscarf has officially re-entered the fashion chat. And they’re not just back, they’re everywhere. On your FYP, your favourite celeb’s airport look, even on every girl out for a coffee run. Yep, 2025 is having a full-blown headscarf moment, and it’s giving. But there’s also something quietly powerful about a headscarf. Not in a loud, trend-chasing kind of way, but in the timeless, cinematic elegance of a woman who knows who she is.
Let’s rewind. The late ’90s and early 2000s were all about scarves, in the best way possible. Back then, Naomi Campbell wore hers like a crown. Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy gave Upper East Side elegance. Even hip-hop royalty in oversized bandanas had a say. But zoom out even further and you’ve got Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Princess Diana, all of them can be spotted in some of the most iconic scarf moments fashion’s ever seen.
Flash-forward to now: the cool crowd is fully committed. Hailey Bieber’s been looping leopard-print silk over baseball caps (Sporty Spice, but make it chic). Jennifer Lawrence stepped out in Paris with a Dior scarf knotted tight under her chin. Kendall? She’s gone full St. Tropez, styling hers with a bikini and an Aperol spritz (we assume).
The designers are also clearly paying attention. Burberry had models in rain-ready trenches and silky scarf knots. Gucci layered floral scarves over caps for their spring summer 2025 collection. Even smaller brands are getting creative, transforming scarves into tops, belts, and even handbags. Is there anything this square of fabric can’t do?
Here are a few styling ideas to turn your headscarves from retro to front row:
The Classic Knot: Tie the scarf under your chin for a vintage look, channelling the elegance of Audrey Hepburn.
Over the Cap: Layer a silk scarf over a baseball cap. Baseball cap + scarf = unexpected icon behaviour.
Bandana Style: Fold the scarf into a triangle and tie it at the back of your head, letting the ends drape over your shoulders.
Hair Tie Upgrade: Use the scarf as a hair tie, wrapping it around a ponytail or bun for a zero effort elevated look.
Neck Accessory: Can’t commit to full headwear? Drape it around your neck, either loosely or in a knot, Parisian style.
Strap Statement: For a subtle nod to timeless elegance, loop a silk scarf around the handle of your handbag, letting the fabric drape or knot delicately at the base.
This isn’t about hiding your hair. It’s about finishing your look with the same casual effortlessness you pretend your life has. The headscarf is a microtrend, sure, but it’s also a moment of maximalism wrapped in minimal fabric.
For more stories of fashion, like our headscarves tour, visit our dedicated archives and stay across our Instagram.
