Pack This One Accessory If You Want to Look Rich on Your Next Vacation

woman wearing white matching set and headscarf on vacation

(Image credit: @saraloura)

What’s the one accessory that can instantly elevate your vacation wardrobe and make you look like you just stepped off a yacht in the South of France? It’s a printed silk headscarf. This effortlessly chic staple has been a favorite of style icons for decades—think Jackie O in Capri or Brigitte Bardot in St. Tropez. Whether you tie it under your chin for that old-money aesthetic, wrap it around your ponytail for a hint of quiet luxury, or drape it over your shoulders like a silk shawl, a headscarf is the ultimate accessory for a jet-set wardrobe. And the best part? It takes up zero space in your suitcase but adds maximum impact to every outfit.

One of the most glamorous ways to wear a headscarf on vacation is with a bikini. Here’s the scene: You’re lounging poolside, Aperol Spritz in hand, wearing a fabulous swimsuit with a perfectly tied silk scarf as a head wrap. Instantly, your look goes from simple to giving off major “rich on holiday” vibes. Choose a classic print—maybe a vintage-inspired chain motif, bold stripes, or a subtle monogram—for a playful touch.

But the appeal of a headscarf doesn’t stop at the beach. This versatile accessory transitions seamlessly from day to night, making it a must-pack item for any stylish getaway. Tie it around your ponytail or bun with a breezy linen set for a casual daytime look, or drape it around your neck with a slip dress for an effortlessly polished evening ensemble. You can even weave it through the belt loops of your trousers or wrap it around your handbag handle for an extra luxe detail. No matter how you wear it, a silk scarf always whispers “expensive” in the most subtle, refined way.

Vacation Outfit Inspiration Featuring Headscarves

woman wearing red linen pants and head scarf on boat

(Image credit: @_livmadeline)

Boat day means you'll need your hair protected and a scarf is the chic answer.

woman wearing leopard silk headscarf and bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

We love this leopard-on-leopard moment.

woman wearing silk headscarf and bikini bottoms with white tank

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

Paired with a little white tank, so effortless.

woman wearing silk headscarf and bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @annawinck)

A matching printed option? Done and done.

woman wearing silk headscarf and black bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @cocoschiffer)

This is giving 'old money' all around.

woman wearing silk headscarf and tank on vacation

(Image credit: @amaka.hamelijnck)

From the sun to afternoon activities.

woman wearing silk headscarf and white dress on vacation

(Image credit: @helenacuesta)

This bright blue scarf is so vacation.

woman wearing silk headscarf and green bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @luciacuesta_)

We're here for the unexpected color combo.

woman wearing pink silk headscarf and bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @raissatch)

With the sunglasses and necklaces ... vibes.

woman wearing silk headscarf and bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

With these statement earrings, no notes.

woman wearing silk headscarf, white tank, and miniskirt

(Image credit: @aishafarida)

The ultimate vacation outfit.

woman wearing white matching set and headscarf on vacation

(Image credit: @saraloura)

Just an iconic outfit, that's all.

woman wearing silk headscarf and bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @luciacuesta_)

Styled like this and it doubles as neck protection.

woman wearing silk headscarf and crochet dress on vacation

(Image credit: @meganadelaide)

We're into this monochrome neutral beach look.

woman wearing printed silk headscarf and white coverup on vacation

(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Stripes are so timeless.

woman wearing red headscarf and red bikini on vacation

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

All here for this all-red beach look.

woman wearing headscarf and white tank

(Image credit: @annawinck)

Another way to style the scarf post-sun bathing.

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Contributing Fashion Editor