The turban has been back for years, but it's still the accessory people most often feel they "couldn't pull off." Nearly always it comes down to the wrong shape or a bad first attempt. Here's how to choose and wear one so it works.

The two kinds of fabric turban

Pre-formed (wide band). A loop of soft fabric, often with a knot or twist already sewn at the front. You pull it on like a very tall headband. The easiest: on in five seconds. Our "Rachele" models are this type.

Tie-style. A long strip of fabric you wrap and knot yourself. More versatile — you can vary the height and knot position — but it takes a minute of practice at the mirror.

If it's your first turban, start with the pre-formed.

How to put it on (pre-formed)

1. Brush your hair back. If it's long, gather it into a low bun — the turban will cover it. 2. Pull the turban on from your forehead towards the nape, like a cap. 3. Position it about a finger and a half above your eyebrows at the front, and check it covers your hairline at the nape. 4. Set the knot or twist slightly off-centre — it looks more natural and lengthens the face. 5. Let a few strands out in front of your ears if you want to soften it.

Which shape for your face

• Round face: a turban with a higher knot and some volume on top, which lengthens. Avoid low, very close styles.
• Long or oval face: almost anything works. You can wear it low, near the eyebrows.
• Square face: a soft twist at the front, rounded lines, no rigid protruding knots.
• High forehead: wear it low, covering part of the forehead.

By hair type

Short hair: a turban is ideal — covers everything, nothing to gather. Long hair: leave it loose underneath (it comes out at the nape) or tuck it up. Curly hair: choose stretch fabrics that won't crush your curls.

When a turban is the right call

• Ceremonies: a silk or velvet turban with a brooch is an alternative to a hat that never comes off and never flattens your hair.
• Bad hair days: full, elegant coverage — not a fallback.
• Hair loss: for anyone going through chemotherapy or alopecia, a soft fabric turban is lighter and more breathable than a wig and can be worn all day. More in our dedicated guide.

Fabrics

Silk and velvet for occasions; jersey, viscose and cotton for every day; wool and crochet for winter. Every turban we make is hand-sewn in Italy and made to order — ask us for a specific size or fabric. For bridal and ceremony styles, see the luxury collection.