Lately, I've been dreaming about infusing my summer wardrobe with a decidedly retro appeal. I've been looking at a lot of images of Sophia Loren and Monica Bellucci to inspire me, as well as old photos of Italian beachgoers in the '60s. There's just something so classic about how they styled a scarf on their head, whether at the beach or beyond. Naturally, I knew I had to re-create the look, and as soon as I tried to, I realized just how easy it really is. I used a large printed silk scarf, but all you'll need is a scarf that's cut in a square shape.
To show you just how straightforward it is to tie a scarf on your head like I did, see my two-step how-to guide so you can get the look for yourself. Then shop a few of my favorite scarves right now.
I styled my scarf with a summery puffy-sleeve top and my favorite vintage jeans.
Step 1: Fold in half diagonally.
First, you'll want to lay your scarf down on a table and fold it diagonally across, matching opposite corners. Depending on the size of your scarf, you might have to do a little extra folding like I did. Since mine was on the larger end, I folded the longest edge over on itself by two inches and repeated this three times to shorten the scarf's overall size.
Step 2: Take the longest edge on top of your head, and tie the edges underneath your hair.
Now, you'll want to take the folded scarf with the longest edge facing forward and tie it on your head with the triangle facing the back of your head. I like to take out a small strand of hair on each side of my part before tying the scarf on, but that's an optional step. Then, tie the scarf in a knot at the nape of your neck, making sure it's underneath your hair. This can be a bit tricky, so you might have to tie your hair in a ponytail while putting it on.
Shop some of my favorite scarves:
Vintage-inspired florals with a streetwear appeal.
This graphic scarf would look great with an all-white outfit.
Choose a scarf in a fresh color for summer, such as this light green shade.
Simple and summery.
Classic bandanas work just as well and complement your mainstay jewelry pieces like the gold hoops here.
This one gives off a retro '60s appeal.
This print is so Sicilian.
I'd wear this graphic scarf a multitude of ways.
For contemporary art fans.
Brunettes will love how this icy blue complements their hair color.
A stylish update on the classic bandana print.
Add a little neon to your summer outfits.
Zara knows best.
As classic as it gets.
Try this pretty lavender color.
Now you know how I'll be styling a square scarf for beach days and travel all summer long.