How to wear a scarf as a headband with short hair?

To wear a scarf as a headband with short hair, first prepare your hair by parting it to the side and tucking any front pieces behind your ears to create a clean foundation for the scarf.

Wearing a scarf as a headband is an excellent way to accessorize short hair, adding a touch of flair, managing stray strands, or simply enhancing your style. It's a versatile look that can range from chic and polished to bohemian and relaxed, depending on the scarf and how you tie it.

Preparation is Key for Short Hair

Successfully styling a scarf as a headband on short hair often begins with a few crucial preparatory steps that ensure the scarf stays in place and complements your cut.

Choosing Your Scarf

The type of scarf you choose significantly impacts the final look and ease of styling.

• Size:
  • Skinny Scarves: Ideal for a delicate headband look or for simply wrapping around the head once.
  • Small Square Scarves (e.g., 20x20 inches): Perfect for bandana styles or folded into a wider headband.
  • Rectangular Scarves (e.g., 2x30 inches or longer): Offer more versatility for wraps and elaborate ties, even on short hair.
• Fabric: Lightweight fabrics like silk, chiffon, or soft cotton are easier to tie and less bulky. They also sit more comfortably on the head.

Prepping Your Short Hair

Unlike long hair that can be easily swept back, short hair requires specific attention to manage layers and fringes, ensuring a sleek or desired base for your scarf.

• Part Your Hair: As demonstrated in styling short hair with a headband, begin by parting your hair to the side. This helps establish a clean line and directs the hair flow away from your face.
• Tuck Side Pieces: Next, tuck any front or side pieces of your hair behind your ears. This crucial step, highlighted in tutorials for short hair, prevents shorter layers from poking out awkwardly from under the scarf and provides a smooth surface for the headband to rest on.
• Optional Styling: Consider adding a bit of texturizing spray or dry shampoo to give your short hair some grip, which can help the scarf stay in place throughout the day.

Popular Scarf Headband Styles for Short Hair

Once your hair is prepped, you can experiment with various ways to tie your scarf.

1. The Classic Headband Look

This is the most straightforward and elegant way to wear a scarf as a headband.

• Fold the Scarf:
  • For a square scarf, fold it diagonally into a triangle, then begin folding the pointed end towards the wide edge, creating a long band.
  • For a rectangular or skinny scarf, simply fold it lengthwise until it reaches your desired headband width.
• Positioning: Place the center of the folded scarf at your hairline, either at the front of your head or slightly behind it.
• Tying:
  • Bring the ends of the scarf around the back of your head, underneath your tucked hair.
  • Tie the ends in a double knot at the nape of your neck, either leaving the ends to hang or tucking them underneath the scarf. For an alternative look, bring the ends back to the top of your head and tie a knot or a bow, letting the ends drape.
• Adjust and Secure: Gently push the scarf back slightly to create a bit of volume at the front of your hair. Use a few bobby pins near your ears or at the nape of your neck to secure the scarf, especially if your short hair is very smooth.

2. The Retro Front-Knot or Bow

This style adds a playful, vintage vibe, perfect for showcasing a patterned scarf.

• Fold the Scarf: Fold your scarf into a band, as described above.
• Positioning: Place the middle of the scarf at the nape of your neck, at the very back.
• Tying: Bring both ends of the scarf up towards the top of your head, near your hairline. Tie them into a chic knot, a small bow, or a twist right at the crown or slightly off to the side.
• Adjust: Fan out the ends of the bow or knot for a fuller effect. Ensure the scarf covers your tucked-away hair pieces neatly.

Tips for Success with Short Hair Headbands

• Secure with Pins: Even after tying, a few discreet bobby pins matching your hair color can make a significant difference in keeping the scarf from slipping, particularly with very short or fine hair. Place them at the sides, behind the ears, or at the nape where the knot is.
• Volume on Top: For short hair, slightly teasing the hair at the crown before putting on the scarf can add volume and prevent the scarf from flattening your style too much.
• Complement Your Cut: Experiment with different scarf widths and placements to see what best complements your specific short haircut (e.g., pixie, bob, undercut). A wider band might suit a bob, while a thinner one could highlight a pixie.

By following these steps, including the essential preparation of parting and tucking your hair, you can confidently wear a scarf as a stylish and secure headband, elevating your short hair effortlessly.