Winter is the season when fashion becomes both practical and beautiful. While temperatures drop, style rises in new ways, especially when it comes to hair. One of the most underrated yet powerful accessories for cold weather is the scarf, and pairing it with the right hairstyle can completely transform a winter look. Whether you have straight, wavy, curly, coily, or braided hair, there are endless ways to style your winter hairstyles with a scarf and stay warm without sacrificing elegance.
This guide explores the best winter hairstyles with a scarf, styling tips for different hair textures, creative scarf-tying techniques, and inspiration that works for women of all races and ages.
If you want a hairstyle that is cozy, protective, and photogenic for the season, this complete winter hair guide will give you everything you need.
Why Winter Hairstyles with a Scarf Are Trending
Scarves have always been a winter staple, but the rise of TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram fashion has pushed scarf hairstyles into the spotlight. People love them for several reasons:
They protect the hair from winter dryness. Cold air pulls moisture from strands, which can cause breakage. Scarves help retain warmth and hydration, especially for curly and coily textures.
They elevate simple hairstyles. A plain bun or ponytail instantly looks chic when paired with a wool, silk, or cashmere scarf.
They allow you to accessorize layers. Winter fashion can feel bulky, so scarf hairstyles help bring personality back into an outfit.
They work for every hair type. From type 1 straight hair to type 4C coils, scarf hairstyles are protective, stylish, and winter-proof.
Because of these benefits, winter hairstyles with a scarf are now one of the top seasonal beauty keywords searched online. Adding scarf styles to your winter routine isn’t just cute. It’s smart hair care.
Best Winter Hairstyles with a Scarf
Below are the most wearable, high-ranking, and trendy styles that readers will love for the season.
1. The Low Bun with a Wrapped Scarf
One of the most elegant winter hairstyles with a scarf is the low wrapped bun. It keeps the hair sleek, warm, and protected.
For straight or wavy hair, this look feels polished and minimal. For curly and coily hair, it tucks the ends away from harsh winter air, reducing dryness.
To get the look, gather your hair into a low bun, then fold your scarf into a long band and wrap it around the bun. Tie it at the top or side for a chic winter finish.
This hairstyle pairs beautifully with winter coats, turtlenecks, and chunky sweaters.
2. The Scarf-Wrapped High Puff (Perfect for Natural Hair)
For Black women with 3B to 4C hair, winter often requires protective styling. The high puff wrapped in a soft scarf is a beautiful, voluminous option that also guards the edges from breakage.
Use a satin or silk scarf if you want the look to double as protective styling. Wrap the scarf around the base of the puff and tie at the front or back.
This look works for:
Short natural hair
Medium Afro-textured hair
Stretched curls and coils
It is winter-friendly, warm, and perfect for days when you still want volume.
3. Braids with a Scarf Woven In
Braids already make a great winter protective style, but weaving a scarf into them takes the look to a new level. This trend is popular among women of all races because it gives a colorful, textured winter effect.
You can:
Weave a scarf through a three-strand braid
Add a scarf ribbon to a fishtail braid
Thread a thin scarf into box braids for pops of color
Wrap a scarf around the length of a single side braid
Choose a wool scarf for extra warmth or a silk scarf for a smooth, shiny finish.
4. The Winter Scarf Headband Hairstyle
If you want something simple yet stylish, turn your scarf into a headband. This works beautifully for every texture:
Straight hair looks sleek
Wavy hair looks boho
Curly hair looks full and defined
Coily hair gains structure and protective coverage
Fold your scarf into a thin strip and tie it at the top or nape of the neck. You can wear it with a low ponytail, loose curls, or a textured Afro.
This is one of the most versatile winter hairstyles with a scarf, especially for casual and everyday looks.
5. The Scarf-Covered Protective Bun for Natural Hair
For harsh winter climates, covering the entire bun with a scarf keeps your ends safe from cold dryness. Wrap the scarf around the bun and tuck the ends under for a sleek winter silhouette.
This style is ideal for:
Type 3C to 4C hair
Transitioning hair
Low-porosity hair prone to dryness
Women who want breakage-free winter styling
Pair this scarf hairstyle with a wool trench coat or puffer jacket for a warm and stylish cold-weather look.
6. Long Hair Tucked Into a Scarf
This winter hairstyle has gone viral because it is both fashionable and protective. Instead of letting long hair tangle in winter wind, tuck the ends into a scarf draped across the shoulders.
It prevents friction, protects from snow and rain, and gives your outfit a soft winter elegance.
Choose a fluffy knit scarf for volume or a smooth cashmere for a luxury look.
7. The Messy Bun + Oversized Blanket Scarf
This is the ultimate cozy winter aesthetic. A messy bun paired with a chunky blanket scarf creates a warm, effortless vibe perfect for everyday winter errands or casual days out.
The softness of the scarf frames the bun beautifully and keeps the neck and shoulders warm. For extra texture, pull out a few face-framing tendrils.
8. The Scarf-Tied Sleek Ponytail
If you love polished styles, tie your scarf around the base of a low or mid-level ponytail. This sleek winter hairstyle works for every hair type and instantly looks chic.
Women with straight and wavy hair get a smooth, editorial finish. Women with curly and coily hair can stretch their curls first or use the natural texture for extra movement.
Silk scarves create a classy winter look, while knitted scarves give a cozy touch.
9. Half-Up Hair with a Bow Scarf
A half-up style is perfect for winter because it lifts the face and pairs well with layers. Tying a scarf as a bow adds a soft, feminine touch.
This look is especially popular for holiday events, winter photos, and romantic winter outings.
It works beautifully on:
Straight hair
Soft waves
Curly hair
Extended clip-ins or wigs
Choosing a scarf with winter tones like emerald, burgundy, cream, or navy enhances the seasonal look.
10. Winter Hijab-Friendly Scarf Hairstyles
Many women search for winter hairstyles with a scarf that work with hijab styles. Here are some options that protect the hair and create a smooth scarf silhouette:
A low scarf-friendly bun
A flat braided base
Soft curls tucked under for volume
A loose ponytail wrapped in satin before wearing the hijab
Using a satin undercap ensures the hair stays moisturized and reduces friction during cold weather.
Choosing the Best Scarf for Winter Hairstyles
Different scarf materials can change both the look and function of your hairstyle. Here are the best materials to pick depending on your hair type and climate:
Silk scarves
Prevent friction
Great for natural hair
Perfect for polished looks
Wool scarves
Warmest option
Great for tucking hair in
Adds winter texture
Cashmere scarves
Luxurious and soft
Pairs well with sleek winter hairstyles
Satin scarves
Ideal for protective styling
Keeps coils and curls moisturized
If your goal is winter hair protection, always include at least one layer of silk or satin between your hair and wool scarves.
How to Make Your Winter Hairstyle Last Longer
Winter can flatten styles or cause dryness. These tips keep your scarf hairstyle intact:
Use a leave-in conditioner before styling
Seal ends with oil for extra protection
Avoid tight scarf knots that pull edges
Use a satin scarf underneath wool for curl safety
Refresh curls or waves with a hydrating mist before tying scarves
Pin scarves with discreet bobby pins to prevent slipping
These small steps help your winter hairstyles look polished all day long.
Final Thoughts
Winter hairstyles with a scarf are more than cute looks. They offer warmth, protection, and endless style options. Whether your hair is straight, curly, coily, braided, or somewhere in between, scarf hairstyles give you a way to stay fashionable and comfortable throughout the season.
From cozy wrapped buns to woven scarf braids, these hairstyles blend practicality with beauty in a way winter fashion rarely does. Try different scarf colors, fabrics, and tying methods to express your personality and keep your hair healthy all season long.