The Hermès scarf is back this summer and seven ways of tying it will change all your looks.

The silk scarf is back with a vengeance this summer 2026, worn on the spring-summer catwalks of Hermès, Celine and Toteme. Long tucked away at the back of the drawer, this little square of fabric is emerging as the season’s most versatile accessory, with seven ways to wear it to transform a simple basic.

Scarves around the neck and on the shoulders: the basics to master

Around the neck, fold a silk square into a triangle and then into a band. The result is a necklace-scarf that can be tied short like a choker, or bandana-style with the point at the front. A simple knot is all it takes to add sophistication to a white shirt or tank top.

On the shoulders, the silk square becomes a light shawl. An oversized scarf, fluid and satiny, just placed and tied very loosely, twists a shirt dress or a little black dress. What’s more, this version is just as suitable for a night out on the town as it is for a summer evening.

The bag’s handle offers a third, simple option. Wrap a colorful panel around the shoulder strap, Jane Birkin style. In this way, even a basic bag effortlessly gains in personality.

“From icons like Jane Birkin and Brigitte Bardot to the spring-summer 2026 shows of Celine, Toteme and Hermès, every silhouette is represented.

The scarf as a top or belt: the boldest fashion option

Worn on top, the silk square flirts with city lingerie. With a 90×90 cm square folded into a triangle, we create a halter top by knotting it in the back and then behind the nape of the neck. Hermès and Celine have multiplied these scarf tops on the Spring-Summer 2026 catwalks.

Around the waist, the scarf acts as a decorative belt. Slipped into the loops of a pair of jeans and tied at the side, it adds color and movement without really constricting. As a result, this option is suitable for all body types.

For the skirt version, you’ll need a taller model that’s twice as big as your hips. Tie it on the hip like a luxurious version of a sarong. Hermès has chosen this silhouette for its summer offerings.

• Tie a 90×90 cm square into a halter top, Hermès or Celine style.
• Slip the scarf through the loops of a pair of jeans, tied at the side as a decorative belt.
• Wear a large scarf twice around the hips in a chic sarong version
• Wrap a colorful panel around the handle of a bag, Jane Birkin style
• Tie a small 50×50 cm square in the hair to replace scrunchies and headbands.

The scarf in your hair: an effortlessly chic touch

Silk scarves replace scrunchies and headbands in the hair. A small 50×50 cm square is enough to wrap around a bun, hide the elastic of a ponytail or slip as a third strand in a braid. Toteme showed it off on a wet-effect ponytail, simply knotted, for effortlessly chic results.

To prevent the scarf from slipping, tighten the knot and tie a discreet double knot. This simple trick solves the most common problem. What’s more, a lightweight fabric holds better than a thick satin on fine hair.

The choice of size remains decisive for this option. A lightweight 50×50 cm square will hold a hairstyle better than a large one. The result is a clean, well-groomed look all day long.

The kerchief on the head: retro in spirit

A scarf protects hair from the sun and wind. Folded into a triangle and placed on the head, it can be tied under the chin for a retro look with sunglasses, or under the hair Brigitte Bardot-style. However, this style also works very well in a casual version on loose hair.

With a white t-shirt and denim skirt, the bandana immediately gives a more bohemian 1970s spirit. This combination remains one of the easiest to adopt on a daily basis. Hermès, by offering squares in signature prints, is making this option even more desirable this summer 2026.

Choosing the right scarf: sizes and materials to remember

The size of the scarf determines the result. A 90×90 cm square works well to create a top, belt or pareo. On the other hand, a 50×50 cm square is the right size for hairstyles and neck ties.

Silk remains the benchmark material for this type of accessory. It glides well, keeps colors bright and gives movement to every wear. Hermès has built a large part of its identity around the printed silk square, which has become an iconic object.

For the shoulders, opt for an oversized, flowing, satiny scarf. Tied very loosely, it gives a relaxed yet dressed-up look. A single accessory can transform several outfits without changing your wardrobe.

Whether worn as a kerchief or a bandana, the scarf can be worn in the city or on vacation. Icons such as Jane Birkin and Brigitte Bardot have played a major role in anchoring these codes in French fashion. Now, the spring-summer 2026 shows of Hermès, Celine and Toteme are bringing these gestures back into fashion.

• Hermès