Bandanas & Breadth: The Summer’s ‘It’ Accessory
Photo Credit: @sofiagrainge/Instagram
Today’s consumer space has pivoted towards minimalism, and with that, the headscarf trend is taking center stage. But accessorizing this household garment as a chic bonnet or bandana makes for outfits that are anything but minimal, and instead, fiercely expressive.
Among the top accessories this summer are simple, square-cut cloths being reinvented and reimagined for endless versatility. Tied below the chin, draped over the shoulders, or wrapped around an easy updo, the styling potential of this seemingly ordinary piece is as vast as your imagination. And despite gaining rapid cultural momentum in digital and street style circles, consistently fresh takes are keeping fashion lovers captivated.
A Brief History of the Headscarf
In the current climate, renewed interest in trends like Y2K capris or old-glamour crocheted collars reflects our collective tendency to recycle aesthetics, whether from past decades, distinct regions, or global cultures. Though dubbed a “headscarf trend,” its roots run far deeper than seasonal style.
Historically, headscarves have been worn across civilizations — from ancient Mesopotamia and Greco-Roman societies to West African gele, Eastern Orthodox Christianity, and South Asian dupattas. In modern times, they’ve held spiritual significance in Islam, Jewish traditions, and Sikhism, while also serving as symbols of identity, resistance, and elegance for Black women, Eastern European grandmothers, and 1950s Hollywood icons alike. As we engage with fashion’s evolving tapestry, it’s important to recognize that what feels “new” to some has long been meaningful for others.
Headscarves for Summer 2025
This summer and into fall, cool-girl closets are characterized by an air of controlled edge. An age of experimental, even cryptic fashion is upon us, set to replace tiresome homogeneity. And entering the scene with a force of passion is individuality and range — she’s approachable, kind, and collected, but bold, daring, and unmistakably herself.
Whether you source from sartorially sharp labels or take a DIY approach, be it high-end or handmade, the modular kerchief is wrapped in luxe glamour. Just take it from Sofia Richie-Grainge, who has made waves on social media this summer with her seaside style statement.
As Seen on Sofia Richie-Grainge:
Photo Credit: @sofiagrainge/Instagram
The it-girl — who basically trademarked her sophisticated chic style — took to Instagram on Wednesday, June 18, posing in a black-and-white gingham Hunza G coif, cut for beach-to-brunch itineraries. This must-have accessory is simultaneously protective, fusing function and fashion, as it can provide scalp coverage and lock in moisture. This prevents the skin and hair from becoming brittle in the hot summer sun (plus, it’s the perfect decoy when you’re in between hair wash days — IYKYK).
Richie-Grainge styled her headpiece with a turquoise ribbed bandeau by Marysia while lounging along the French coast. And when headed to lunch? A matching gingham, seersucker set — also by Hunza G — built upon her swim style, turning the look into a more modest iteration. In elegant execution, the 26-year-old proved that co-ords don’t always need to be worn as such; mismatching colors and fabrics with intention makes for an unexpected yet undeniable harmony.
Roberto Cavalli x SKIMS Brings Graphics Galore:
ROBERTO CAVALLI X SKIMS HEAD SCARF, $68 VIA SKIMS SHOP NOW
Also leaning into the look is Kim Kardashian, whose recent SKIMS collaboration with Roberto Cavalli showcases bold swimwear with match-back accessories. A high-gloss iteration of the prevailing aesthetic is characteristically Kardashian, meaning printed headscarves were a must for the collection. With three fauna-forward designs — zebra, tiger, and fagianella print — this summer’s hottest collab is on track to be both on-trend and untamed.
Spotted on the Hermès Runway:
Hermès Shanghai 2026; Photo Credit: Getty Images
With nods of approval from high-fashion houses like Hermés, the headscarf trend cements its position in the style sphere. Recently debuting their Resort 2026 collection in Shanghai, the bridled brand showcased silk scarves with autumnal hues and geometric prints. The accessory adorned bags, looped around waists, and added character to neutral hats. An homage to Hermés riding roots, the fashion maison also braided the scarves into the hairstyles on the catwalk.
Hermès Shanghai 2026; Photo Credit: Getty Images
Final Thoughts
Inspired by streetwear, styled by celebrities, and now showcased on the runway, the headscarf trend has endless notes of nuance — much like its styling scope and versatile variations. From Sofia Richie-Grainge’s coastal concept and Cavalli-esque linear graphics, all the way to creative direction by Nadège Vanhee-Cybulski at the Hermés Shanghai show, the code has been written for the summer.
Perhaps that doesn’t explicitly mean we have to stun in scarves, but rather, that we can redefine what it means to be “on trend.” The multifaceted potential of this piece is a metaphor for the future of the fashion cycle; no longer a stand-alone product that makes for redundant renditions and material waste, but rather a dominating mood, motif, or attitude to adopt.
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