There are few accessories that boast the versatility of a silk scarf. Beloved by 1950s starlets and the most stylish influencers of 2024 alike, the enduring utility of a silk scarf should never be underestimated. A resort-style top one minute, a sweet hair accessory the next, tied to the handle of a bag or threaded through belt loops on a pair of wide-leg pants, the silk scarf really is the styling trick that keeps on giving. Light as a feather and taking up no space in a suitcase, fussy headbands and impractical hats need not apply when it comes to packing smartly for summer sojourns.

Here, our five favourite ways to wear a silk scarf inspired by the chic celebrities and style icons that do it best, from Kendall Jenner to Elsa Hosk, plus the styles we have our eye on this summer.

Worn as: A triangle headscarf — for a dose of Scandi-girl cool

How to: Take a square silk scarf and fold it in half to make one big triangle. Fold it in half again (and once more if your scarf is particularly big). Hold the two corners furthest from each other and place the longest edge on top of the head. Tie the two corners into a knot at the nape of the neck and adjust the hair. One we love: Anemone Print Silk Foulard, $695 from Ferragamo, Ground Level

Worn as: A fun top — for living out beach-to-bar fantasies

How to: Take a square silk scarf and fold it in half to make one big triangle. Hold the two corners furthest from each other and place the longest edge horizontally across the back.

Tie a tight double knot with the two corners to secure, then twist it around so the knot is at the back and adjust as necessary. One we love: GG Silk Jacquard Scarf, $900 from Gucci, Ground Level

Worn as: A resort-style belt — to save on packing and add a touch of island glamour

How to: Take a large rectangular silk scarf. Fold it in half then continue rolling to form a long thin log. Thread through the belt loops of a pair of pants or shorts and secure with a double knot at the front. One we love: Check Silk Scarf, $810 from Burberry, Ground Level

Worn as: A chic bag charm — to level up your trusted tote

How to: Take a small square or rectangular silk scarf and roll to form a thin log. Tie around the strap of a handbag, letting the excess scarf hang. One we love: Dior Amor 70 Silk Scarf, $550 from Dior, Ground Level

Worn as: A bandana — for hiding salty hair and giving castaway chic

How to: Take a square silk scarf and fold it in half to make one big triangle. Hold the two corners furthest from each other and place the longest edge across the forehead. Tie the two corners together behind the head, letting the excess scarf hang down. One we love: FF Foulard, $750 from Fendi, Ground Level