The French Foulard Is Fall’s Latest Trend

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Paris always hits home when it comes to the newest trends, even with the latest fashion craze: a typical French foulard. Impeccably sexy, coy, and the ultimate status of chic, a thin scarf is not necessarily an accessory but actually a French signal of confidence. It takes quite the bravery to put on the coveted headcover in days when fashion tends to wear less and less, making the scarf a luxury.

With Paris Fashion Week in full swing and the weather not on par, fashionistas are tying their hair back with a classic foulard. Originally a creation of Hermès, the square foulard was a sign of sophistication that only few could (and still can) afford. During World War I, these same silk creations concealed maps that only the Allies could crack. Though as times have changed, Hermès continues to pay homage to its history by printing the most elaborate scarves, and other brands have joined in on the efforts too. The best part: we’ve all got a few hiding in our closets, or waiting to be bought at the nearest thrift store. Here’s a compilation of our favorite French-girl foulard styles straight from this season’s runways, how to wear them, and where to get them.

Long, thin, twill scarf: 

Subtle and elegant in the form of a tie, the long foulard may be clipped on a ponytail or tied at the neck. (Options available at Urban Outfitters, All Saints, and elsewhere.) 

Bandana scarf: 

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1oj7MqJmyB/

Featured is a classic camp bandana that was seen on every summer vacation from the 80s to present day. Props to you if you’ve got a vintage option, or else you can pop by your local vintage/thrift store for a $5 steal. (Find your nearest Goodwill here.) 

Tied to a bag: 

https://www.instagram.com/p/BpFdV-UBhzo/

When it comes to scarves, the creative canvas is open for any variation. Tie any of the scarves on this list onto a bag, a shoe, a piece of luggage, and you’ve got a statement.

Woven in your hair: 

This particular canvas style originates in Oaxaca and the featured fashionista made a few styles from material remains at Onda de Mar. Wrap the canvas into a braid and you’re sure to feel more confident.

Audrey Hepburn style: 

The ultimate foulard-icon Audrey Hepburn wears her the most memorable scarves in her movie Charade. Stop by a local vintage store, or perhaps Hermès, to pick out one to match your eye color. (Vintage options available at Brooklyn’s Dobbin Street Market, Feng Sway, and Beacon’s Closet.) 

Tied as a hair tie: 

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2cq5UkJfeT/

Add volume to your hair then wrap it in your biggest lightweight scarf. (Options available on Etsy.)

Necktie:

The classic option really reminds us of camp, but if Kaia Gerber approves of it, so do we. The little handkerchief can upgrade any look, making it that much more special.

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