A ready-sewn turban takes three seconds to put on. A scarf takes longer, but gives you several different looks from the same piece. Here are three ways to tie it that stay put all day – and what needs to be right for them to do so.
First: the grip
What makes a scarf slip isn't the knot, it's what's underneath. On a head without hair there is no friction, so the fabric creeps backwards however tightly you tie it.
The solution is a thin cap underneath. It gives the scarf something to grip, and you don't have to pull it tight – which also means it won't press over your ears after a few hours. Our turban with a long scarf has that part built in, so the cap stays in place and the ties are free to knot.
1. Classic turban knot
The most common one, and the one that looks most like a ready-made turban.
- Put the cap part in place, with the front edge just above your eyebrows.
- Bring the ties back and cross them at the nape, slightly above the hairline.
- Bring the ties forward again and tie a simple knot at the forehead or slightly to one side.
- Tuck the ends under the knot, or let them hang if you want more movement.
A knot slightly to the side looks better than dead centre nine times out of ten. It breaks the symmetry and looks less stiff.
2. Knot at the nape
The easiest, and the coolest in summer since nothing is built up on top.
- Bring the ties straight back without crossing them.
- Tie a double knot at the nape, lower than you think.
- Adjust so the fabric covers the whole nape, not just the back of the head.
The nape is what gives it away. A couple of centimetres too high and it shows the moment you turn around.
3. Wrapped around the head
Takes the longest and looks the most considered. Good when you want volume.
- Cross the ties at the nape as in the classic knot.
- Instead of tying at the front, wrap the ties one more time around the head.
- Tuck the ends under the wrap on each side.
Try twisting the ties half a turn as you wrap. It creates a rope-like texture that holds its shape better than flat fabric.
Three common mistakes
Too tight. If it presses when you put it on, it will hurt in two hours. If it won't stay put, it's grip that's missing, not force.
Too high on the forehead. Looks unstable and slips more easily too. Just above the eyebrows is the rule.
Too symmetrical. Perfectly centred at the front looks like a bandage. Slightly off-centre looks like a choice.
Care
Untie the scarf before washing, or the fabric will keep the creases. Stretchy scarves can be machine-washed at 30 degrees, ideally in a laundry bag so the ties don't tangle. Dry flat.
If you'd rather not tie at all
That's completely fine. Many people keep a scarf for the days they feel like it and ready-sewn turbans for the rest. See all turbans and headwear, or read our guide to headwear during cancer treatment if you've just received your diagnosis.