DESIGNER 101
Hermès 101:
How to Tie an Hermès Scarf
By James F. Feb 26, 2021
Since inventing the first graphic silk scarf in 1837, Hermès has
become synonymous with the art of silk dyeing. A simple silk scarf is arguably the most versatile, expressive, and perennially-chic accessories one could own. Infinite possibilities exist around how to don this staple piece of neckwear, so here are ten classic ties to get the inspiration flowing.
Since inventing the first graphic silk scarf in 1837, Hermès has become synonymous with the art of silk dyeing. A simple silk scarf is arguably the most versatile, expressive, and perennially-chic accessories one could own. Infinite possibilities exist around how to don this staple piece of neckwear, so here are ten classic ties to get the inspiration flowing.
Pli de Base
For any square size scarf, courtesy of Hermès
To begin your tying journey, you’ll need to know the basics. The Pli de Base is the starting point for most ties involving square scarves, so it’s essential for every scarf lover to master.
First, lay your scarf flat so that a corner points toward you. Fold the top corner two-thirds of the way down the scarf. Then fold the bottom corner two-thirds of the way up the scarf so that the corner lays atop the folded edge. The scarf should look symmetrically folded in thirds.
Fold the top half of the scarf toward the center, and then the bottom half toward the center.
Then, simply fold the top half on top of the bottom half to complete the Pli de Base.
Riding Style
Pictured on far left, courtesy of Hermès | Best for 90cm square scarvesa
This classic tie has been made for decades, spanning back to the early Hollywood dames and also the European equestrians after whom this tie was named.
First, lay your scarf flat and bring two corners together to create a triangle. Drape the scarf over the top of your head so that the folded edge is toward the front and the left and right sides are even.
Then cross the left and right corners over one another in front of you, and bring them around to the back of your head to knot them together.
Ceinture Twilly
Best for Twilly and Maxi Twilly scarves, courtesy of Hermès
Take your two Twilly scarves and knot them at one end, allowing for about two inches to pull through the knot. Starting at the backmost belt loop, pull both ends of the Twilly belt through each belt loop toward the front, then tie in a bow-tie knot to complete the look. Très simple!
Bandeau Rétro
Best for 70cm square scarves, courtesy of Hermès
Begin by creating that Pli de Base we mentioned earlier. Then, wrap the scarf around your head with the ends toward the front. Tie them in an overhand knot just above the hairline, then finish with a decorative knot of your choice. Or, stick to the classic double knot look.
Carré Bijou
Best for 90cm and 120cm square scarves, courtesy of Hermès | Requires a scarf ring
First create a Pli de Base. Bring the scarf around your neck with the ends toward the front. Pull the ends through each side of a doubled scarf ring and let the ends drape freely for an easy accessory.
Twillys Tressés
Best for Twilly scarves, courtesy of Hermès
Lay three Twilly scarves parallel to each other, then take a small band and tie them together at one end, allowing for about an inch to pull through the band. Briad the Twilly scarves tightly together until you have reached the last inch of silk, then band that end as well to finish the braid.
Tie the braid around your forehead in a simple knot for a vibrant, silken coronet.
Grand Nœud Papillon
Best for 90cm and 120cm square scarves, courtesy of Hermès
Take two scarves of equal size, then fold both into a Pli de Base. Next, tie them together at one end allowing about an inch and a half to pull through the knot. Wrap the scarves around you with the knot at the nape of your neck. Tie an overhand knot in the front and comfortably and snugly tighten the tie.
Then, tie an oversized bowtie to complete the look. Pull more of the ends through the knot in order to balance out the proportions of the bow.
Turban Croisé
Best for 90cm square scarves, courtesy of Hermès
This tie is a staple that has roots reaching back decades, and has resurfaced over the years in bohemian countercultures and mainstream trends alike. Again start with the simple Pli de Base. Then wrap the scarf around your head with the ends tower the front. While twisting slightly, create an “elbow” by bringing the left end around the right end and pulling snug.
Next, bring the ends around toward the back of your head and finish with a simple knot to secure the headband.
Petit Gaucho
Best for 70cm square scarves, courtesy of Hermès
Create a Pli de Base. Wrap the scarf around your neck so that the ends point toward the front. Then, tie a necktie knot and pull the end through to create a symmetrical “gaucho” bowtie shape.
Twilly Manchette
Best for Twilly scarves, courtesy of Hermès
Double-wrap your scarf around your wrist. Secure with a knot, then add your own creative flourish by adorning with another knot. The manchette is such a simple tie that can be a delightfully surprising accessory that packs a whimsical punch!
