The Scarf Trend Is Back — And It’s All About the Hips
All tied up
By Kiri Johnston | 18th July 2025Fashion’s always cyclical, and in 2025, the scarf is quietly stepping up as the unexpected hero of the season. The Y2K influence is still hanging around, but it’s evolved: less cliché, more considered. This time, the scarf feels versatile, elevated, and a little more editorial — perfect for travel, layering, or tossing in your bag just in case.
With the northern hemisphere deep in summer mode, and Australians either living it up in Europe or plotting their summer glow-up, scarves are sliding into feeds from Mykonos to Malibu. Whether it’s Elsa Hosk slinging one over sun-kissed hips or Alexa Chung making hers look unapologetically vintage, the message is clear: it’s a look.
The Scarf’s Soft Power
Once the go-to for French girls on bikes and 2000s music videos, the silk scarf is back. But this time, she’s cooler, more relaxed, and knows exactly how to work a look. No longer just a necktie, it’s become the ultimate styling move, knotted at the hip, tied around the head, or worn as a barely-there top.
Right now, it’s all about the hip tie. Slung low over swimwear, looped through belt loops, or styled asymmetrically across the waist — it’s giving vacation energy with zero effort. Think poolside in Puglia or golden hour in Noosa. Whether you’re in a bikini or a linen two-piece, the scarf does all the heavy lifting so you don’t have to.
How to Style a Scarf in 2025
Scarf styling is a choose-your-own-adventure — and that’s what makes it so good. Here’s how we’re wearing ours:
Hip Tie Hero: Knot it low over swimwear or linen pants. Let it drape asymmetrically across one side. Bonus points if it flutters in the breeze.
Top Game: Fold it into a triangle and tie it as a halter, or knot two scarves together for a bandeau-style top.
The Bandana Return: Channel retro-chic by tying it around your head à la ‘70s glam — oversized sunglasses essential.
Bag Candy: Knot it around your handbag strap or through a belt loop for subtle texture.
Beach-to-Bar Fix: Throw it on as a mini sarong post-swim, then layer it up for drinks after sunset.
Scarves We’re Loving Right Now
Here’s what’s sitting in our carts right now.
Hot Tip: The Scarf as Travel Essential
Not just a fashion statement — a scarf is the ultimate jet-setter’s hack. It folds down to nothing but can be used as a belt, top, wrap, head covering, or even a makeshift picnic mat (we’ve all been there). Toss one in your carry-on and thank us later.
What People Are Searching Right Now
What size scarf works for tying around your hips?Look for scarves that are 70x70cm or larger. Oversized square or rectangular shapes work best for hip ties and sarong styling.
Can you wear a scarf as a skirt?Absolutely. Fold it into a triangle, wrap it around your waist, and knot at the side. Shorts or swimmers underneath recommended.
How do I keep a scarf tied at my waist without slipping?Double knot it, or use a hidden safety pin if dancing is on the cards.
Whether you’re tying one on before a flight, a festival, or just your next photo dump, the scarf has proven itself the ultimate chameleon — quietly iconic, always useful, and now, officially cool again.
Style tip: Pair with undone hair, a golden hour tan, and an effortless attitude.
We said what we said.
