How to Tie a Headscarf

The shemagh, ghutra or ghotra is a traditional Arabic headscarf steeped in cultural significance and practicality. Originating from the arid regions of the Middle East, this distinctive square piece of cloth is not only a statement of heritage but also a functional accessory. Traditionally, it offers essential protection from the blistering sun and shielding against the frequent sandstorms typical of desert environments.

Nowadays, even in our air-conditioned cities, the ghutra is still a common sight all over the Arab world. It’s not that sandstorms can be ruled out even in the large cities adjacent to the desert, of course. But wearing a headscarf is just as normal to Middle Eastern peoples as is wearing a suit and tie in London. It’s part culture, part fashion, part everyday wear.

So if you’re visiting Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar or Bahrain, you probably want to fit in and respect the local culture. And the best way to do that is to wear a shemagh, just like the locals. You might actually end up on a trip into the desert, which is a fabulous and moving experience, especially at night when the stars are out. If that’s on your itinerary, you will get a taste of the ghutra in its natural habitat, and you’ll come away with a full understanding of why it’s an essential piece of desert wear.

So let’s find out how to put yours on.

Step-by-step guide to tying a shemagh 

Embarking on tying your own shemagh can seem a tad daunting at first. However, with a bit of practice, you’ll soon master the art. Work through this guide and you’ll get the basics, but never be afraid to ask your host for help. Even they had to learn it at one point.

1. Fold the shemagh

Begin by folding your shemagh. Instead of folding it exactly in half, bring one corner up to the halfway point. This creates a triangular shape with one side slightly longer than the other.

2. Place the shemagh on your head

Next, drape the folded shemagh over your head. Ensure the folded edge sits snugly over your forehead, whilst the unfolded part should cover the back of your head and neck.

3. Twist the hanging ends

You will notice that there are two ends hanging down in front of you. With each end, give two twists in an outward direction away from your body.

4. Cross the ends behind your head

Now comes a step where you need a bit of flexibility. Pull the twisted ends over your shoulders and cross them behind your head and neck. This helps in creating that familiar bulge at the back of the headscarf.

5. Bring the ends back to the front

Once crossed, bring the ends back to the front, letting them hang down on either side of your chest – one end on the left, the other on the right.

6. Wrap the first end around your head

Take one of the ends and wrap it around your head, just above your forehead. Proceed to tuck it securely at the back. Beginners should aim to create about two layers of cloth during this wrap. 

7. Wrap the second end around your head

Now, take the second end, which will be predominantly visible, and wrap it in a similar fashion around your head. Aim again for a couple of neat lines or layers. For added style, you may choose to let this end dangle slightly, creating a tail-like feature on one side.

After completing these steps, take a moment to adjust and check your handiwork in a mirror. Make sure everything looks tidy and feels secure. Remember, achieving the perfect look might require a few attempts, so don’t be discouraged. As with all skills, practice makes perfect.

If you don’t think you’ve got time to learn, or aren’t confident of your ability, you can always consider a pre-wrapped shemagh. You simply put it on your head like a hat, and you’re good to go.

Shemagh styles

The instructions above will give you a basic, everyday headscarf that will ensure you fit into any group. However, just like neckties, there are some subtly differing ways to wear the scarf that will demonstrate that you’re an adept wearer, or to identify with a certain group. Some of the common ones are:

Cobra: This style is characterised by its resemblance to the hood of a cobra. The shemagh is wrapped around the head with the ends folded to create a raised, dramatic effect that fans out above and behind the head.

Teacher: Known for its simplicity and elegance, the Teacher style involves neatly folding the shemagh and draping it over the shoulders. The ends are often tucked in, making it a tidy and practical choice.

Eagle: The Eagle style is quite dynamic, featuring one end of the shemagh pulled up and draped over the opposite shoulder, mimicking the wingspan of an eagle. This style provides a sense of strength and nobility.

Modesty: As the name suggests, this style prioritises coverage and is often used for practicality. The shemagh is wrapped tightly around the head and neck, offering extensive protection from the elements and signifying modesty.

VIP: The VIP style exudes an air of sophistication and elegance. It involves a carefully arranged fold that falls gracefully over the shoulders, often with a more refined finish that’s suitable for formal occasions.

Butterfly: This style is defined by its light, airy appearance. The shemagh is folded and draped in such a way that it creates soft, wing-like folds on either side of the head, resembling a butterfly in flight.

Each of these styles offers a different look and can be chosen based on the occasion or personal preference. Like the basic style, though, it certainly pays to practise and take advice on any style you choose. Otherwise you might end up with:

• Unravelling: the style of shemagh worn by those who failed to put in the hours in front of the mirror!