11 Scarf Hairstyles That Are Totally Owning Summer 2025
Summer 2025 is bringing us the hottest trend in hair accessories – scarves!
I’ve been watching this trend grow over the past few months, and now I can’t scroll through my feed without seeing these gorgeous scarf styles everywhere.
Gone are the days when scarves were just neck accessories or beach cover-ups – they’re now the must-have hair accessory that combines practicality with style. Here are my favorite scarf hairstyles that everyone’s rocking this summer.
1. Sky-High Ponytail with Scarf Wrap
Feeling the summer heat? This elevated ponytail keeps hair off your neck while making a statement. I tried this look last weekend at a rooftop party and got compliments all night!
Start with a high ponytail secured with a hair tie. Take a long, slim scarf and wrap it around the base, criss-crossing as you go. Leave the ends hanging for a playful touch or tuck them in for a cleaner finish.
The scarf adds grip to your ponytail, keeping it secure even through beach volleyball or dancing. Plus, it hides any hair elastics for a more polished look. Works with any hair length that can be pulled back!
2. Romantic Low Bun with Scarf Accent
My go-to for summer weddings and fancy dinners! This elegant style works magic on second-day hair when you don’t have time for a full wash and style routine.
Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist into a loose bun. Secure with bobby pins, then take a medium-width scarf and wrap it around the base of the bun. Tie it in front with a small knot or bow, letting the ends drape down.
The beauty of this style is its versatility – use a floral print scarf for daytime events or a satin one for evening. The scarf also helps keep flyaways in check during those breezy summer nights.
3. Boho Braided Ponytail with Woven Scarf
Festival season calls for this eye-catching style! I wore mine to Coachella and it stayed put through hours of dancing.
Create a basic braid with your ponytail, but before you start braiding, place a thin scarf alongside one section of hair. As you braid, incorporate the scarf as if it were a fourth section, weaving it through the entire length.
The color pop against your natural hair creates dimension that looks amazing in photos. For extra flair, choose a scarf with metallic threads or tiny beads at the ends. This style works best on medium to long hair and stays intact longer than you’d expect, even in summer heat.
4. Playful Half-Up Style with Knotted Bow
Remember those half-up styles from the 90s? They’re back with a scarf upgrade! This look balances casual and put-together perfectly.
Take the top section of your hair and secure it with a clear elastic. Fold a square scarf into a long strip, then tie it around the hair tie, creating a bow or knot at the top. The remaining hair stays loose for that carefree summer vibe.
I love this style for brunch dates or casual office days when I want something quick but cute. The best part? It works on virtually any hair texture and length past the shoulders. Choose a scarf that matches your outfit to pull the whole look together.
5. Sleek Top Knot with Silk Scarf Accent
My beach-to-bar solution! This polished updo keeps hair contained while looking intentionally chic. No one will guess you threw it together in minutes.
Pull hair into a high, tight bun on top of your head. Take a silk square scarf, fold it into a triangle, then roll it from the wide end to create a band. Wrap this around the base of your top knot and tie underneath, tucking in the ends.
The smooth silk adds an elegant touch to an otherwise casual style. I’ve found this works especially well for controlling frizz in humid weather. For extra hold, spray the scarf lightly with hairspray to prevent slipping during those long summer days.
6. Dramatic Side Braid with Scarf Tail
When I need my hair to make a statement, this is my pick! The side positioning creates an asymmetrical look that photographs beautifully from every angle.
Create a deep side part and French braid your hair starting at the temple, working down to one side. Before securing the end, add a thin scarf to the last few crosses of your braid. Leave plenty of scarf hanging with your hair for a dramatic effect.
The contrast between hair and fabric creates visual interest that elevates this beyond a basic braid. I’ve found this style particularly striking with a scarf that has an ombré effect or subtle pattern. Perfect for those windy beach days when you want your hair controlled but still showing length.
7. Retro Headband Style over Loose Waves
Channel your inner ’70s goddess with this throwback style that’s surprisingly practical for summer heat. I reach for this look when I want my hair down but need to keep it off my face.
Style your hair in loose waves or keep your natural texture. Fold a rectangular scarf lengthwise until it’s about 2-3 inches wide. Place it over your head, just behind your hairline, and tie it securely at the nape of your neck.
The beauty of this style is its simplicity and how it instantly pulls together even the most basic outfit. I’ve worn mine to outdoor markets and beach bonfires alike. Pro tip: choose a cotton scarf rather than silk for this style – it grips better and won’t slide back on your head.
8. Quirky Scarf-Wrapped Space Buns
Double the buns, double the fun! This playful style has become my weekend favorite for its unique look and surprising staying power.
Split your hair down the middle and create two high buns on either side of your head. Take a long, narrow scarf and weave it around both buns in a figure-eight pattern, tying it underneath one bun when finished.
The scarf connection between the buns actually helps them stay in place longer than traditional space buns. I wore this to a water park and was shocked that it held up through water slides! Choose contrasting scarf colors against your hair for maximum impact. Works best on shoulder-length to long hair.
9. Sophisticated Twisted Chignon with Scarf Detail
Need a quick updo that looks like you spent hours at the salon? This twisted chignon has saved me for countless summer dinner parties.
Gather hair at the nape of your neck and twist it upward, securing with pins as you go to create a vertical roll. Take a slim silk scarf and thread it through the center of your chignon, wrapping once around the base before tying in a small knot with tails hanging down.
The vertical positioning keeps your neck cool while creating an elegant silhouette. I’ve found this style works on most hair types, though those with very thick hair might need extra pins for security. The scarf addition elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary with minimal effort.
10. Effortless Messy Bun with Crown Scarf Tie
The ultimate “I woke up like this” style that actually takes just minutes to create! This has been my summer savior for those mornings after beach camping when hair washing isn’t an option.
Gather your hair into a loose, messy bun positioned wherever feels comfortable. Secure with an elastic and bobby pins as needed. Take a medium-width scarf, fold it into a band, and wrap it around your head like a crown, tying it at the top.
The genius of this style is how it turns bedhead into a deliberate fashion choice. The scarf draws attention upward while disguising any greasiness or frizz. I’ve gotten compliments on this look even on day-three hair! Works on all hair types and most lengths.
11. Beachy Loose Curls with Boho Bandana
My camera-ready style for vacation photos! This laid-back look combines natural texture with just enough polish to look intentional.
Style your hair in loose waves or enhance your natural curl pattern. Fold a square bandana or scarf into a triangle, then place the wide edge along your hairline. Tie the ends at the nape of your neck, tucking any excess underneath.
The scarf keeps hair off your face while adding a pop of color to frame your features. I’ve found this particularly flattering for highlighting cheekbones and eyes in photos. For extra security on windy days, use small clips to attach the scarf to your hair at the temples. This style works on virtually any hair length past the chin.