A ready-made turban takes three seconds to put on. A scarf takes longer, but gives you several different looks from the same garment. Here are three ways to tie one that last all day, and what needs to be in place for them to do so.
First: the grip
What makes a scarf slip is not the knot, but the surface underneath. On a hairless head, there is no friction, so the fabric moves backward no matter how tightly you tie it.
The solution is a thin cap underneath. It gives the scarf something to grip, and you avoid tying it tightly, which in turn means it will not press around your ears after a few hours. Our turban with a long scarf has this part built in, so the cap stays in place and the ties are free to knot.
1. Classic turban knot
The most common option, and the one that looks most like a ready-made turban.
- Put the cap in place, with the front edge just above your eyebrows.
- Pull the ties backward and cross them at the nape of your neck, slightly above the hairline.
- Bring the ties forward again and tie a simple knot at your 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 one side is nine times out of ten more flattering than one in the center. It breaks up the symmetry and looks less contrived.
2. Knot at the nape
The easiest option, and the coolest in summer because nothing is built up on top.
- Pull the ties straight backward without crossing them.
- Tie a double knot at the nape, lower than you think.
- Adjust it so the fabric covers the entire nape, not just the back of your head.
The nape gives it away. A couple of centimeters too high and it shows immediately when you turn around.
3. Wrapped around the head
This takes the longest and looks the most deliberate. Good when you want volume.
- Cross the ties at the nape as with the classic knot.
- Instead of tying them at the front, wrap the ties around your head one more time.
- Tuck the ends under the wrap on either side.
Feel free to twist the ties half a turn as you wrap them. This creates a ribbed texture that holds its shape better than flat fabric.
Three things that commonly go wrong
Too tight. If it feels tight when you put it on, it will hurt in two hours. If it does not stay in place, it is the grip that is missing, not more force.
Too high on the forehead. It looks unstable and also slips more easily. Just above the eyebrows is the rule.
Too symmetrical. Perfectly centered at the front looks like a bandage. Slightly askew looks intentional.
Care
Untie the scarf before washing it, otherwise the fabric will retain the creases. Stretchy scarves can be machine-washed at 30 degrees, preferably in a laundry bag so the ties do not tangle. Leave flat to dry.
If you would rather not tie it
That is perfectly fine. Many people have a scarf for the days they feel like wearing one and ready-made turbans for the rest. See all turbans and headwear, or read the guide to headwear during cancer if you have just received the news.