Turban Hijab & Muslim Head Wrap Styles: 6 Easy Ways to Wear One

A turban hijab is one of the quickest ways to change your look. It sits higher on the head, frames the face and can be dressed up for a wedding or kept simple for a busy weekday. If you have been searching for turban style hijab ideas or an easy Muslim head wrap, this guide walks you through six styles, from the most open to the most covered.

What Is a Turban Hijab?

A turban hijab is a scarf wrapped and twisted around the head rather than draped under the chin. Classic turban styles cover the hair but often leave the ears and neck uncovered, which is why many women pair them with a high neckline, a turtleneck or a second layer underneath. Fuller versions bring the fabric down over the ears and neck for more coverage.

The terms overlap. People say turban hijab, turban style hijab, Muslim head wrap and head wrap hijab for much the same idea. For a side-by-side look at how turbans compare with other styles, read hijab vs shayla vs turban vs headscarf.

What You Need

• A hijab cap. A hijab cap gives the wrap a fabric base to sit on and covers the hairline, which matters even more with turbans because the scarf sits higher.
• A stretchy or textured scarf. Fabric choice is the biggest factor in how long a turban holds. More on that below.
• A few pins (optional). One or two safety pins or a small brooch help with fuller styles.

6 Turban Hijab and Head Wrap Styles

1. The Classic Knot Turban

1. Put on your hijab cap and place the scarf at the nape of your neck, with both ends even.
2. Bring both ends up to the top of your head.
3. Cross them, twist once and take them back down toward the nape.
4. Tie a secure knot at the back and tuck the ends under.

This is the easiest turban style and the best one to learn first.

2. The Twisted Front Turban

1. Start as for the classic knot, with the scarf at the nape and both ends brought to the front.
2. Twist each end into a rope.
3. Cross the two ropes at the front of the head, then wrap them back.
4. Tuck or tie at the back.

The twist creates a raised detail at the front, which works well for evenings and events.

3. The Bun Turban

1. Wrap the scarf as in the classic knot.
2. Instead of tucking the ends, twist them together tightly.
3. Coil the twist into a bun at the back or crown of the head and pin or tuck the end underneath.

This adds volume and looks polished with a simple outfit.

4. The Full-Coverage Turban

1. Wear a hijab cap with neck coverage, or a turtleneck.
2. Place a longer scarf over the head with one side longer than the other.
3. Wrap the long side under the chin and around the head, then twist it at the back.
4. Bring the twisted end to the front, cross it over and pin at the side.

This keeps the ears and neck covered while keeping the turban shape on top.

5. The Everyday Head Wrap

1. Fold the scarf into a long band.
2. Place the middle at the nape, bring both ends to the front and cross them.
3. Wrap them back and tie at the nape.

A quick, flat wrap that is comfortable for long days and errands.

6. The Draped Turban

1. Tie a classic knot turban.
2. Instead of tucking the ends, let one end fall loosely over the shoulder.
3. Pin it lightly at the side so it drapes.

A softer look that sits between a turban and a traditional wrap.

Best Fabrics for a Turban Hijab

• Jersey. Stretchy with a slight texture, so it holds a knot well. A jersey hijab is the easiest choice for beginners.
• Modal. Soft, light and breathable, with a gentle drape. A modal hijab is comfortable for all-day wear and twists neatly.
• Printed modal. A printed modal hijab turns a simple knot into a statement.
• Chiffon. Light and elegant for events, but slippery. Always wear a cap underneath and add a pin or two. Browse chiffon hijabs.

For more detail on each fabric, read our guide to hijab fabrics.

Tips to Keep Your Turban in Place

• Always start with a hijab cap. It gives the turban a base to sit on and keeps your hairline covered.
• Tie the first knot firmly. Everything else builds on it.
• Use a longer scarf for fuller styles. Short scarves leave too little to tuck.
• Match the cap to the scarf for a clean finish at the hairline.

How to Style a Turban Hijab

Turbans draw attention to the face, so they pair well with statement earrings, a bold lip or a simple neckline. For work, choose a neutral shade and the everyday head wrap. For events, try the twisted front or bun turban in a richer color. Our hijab color guide helps you choose shades that suit your skin tone, and our face shape guide shows which styles flatter you most.

Keep Reading

• How to wear a hijab: 5 easy styles
• Hijab styling for every occasion
• Types of hijab explained

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