HOW 90s SUPERMODELS STYLED SCARVES. LOOKS YOU CAN WEAR TODAY!
Before the age of influencers and fast fashion, supermodels were the ones setting the trends. In the 1990s, icons like Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Linda Evangelista weren’t just walking runways—they were shaping the way women dressed. One accessory that defined their style? The scarf. Effortlessly draped, knotted, or tied into bold statements, scarves became a symbol of elevated simplicity. This article takes you back to the Supermodel Era to explore how these fashion icons styled scarves and why those looks still resonate today.
Iconic supermodel scarf styles: effortless, confident and individual
Each supermodel brought her own interpretation to the scarf - proof that this single piece could shape-shift across styles, moods and moments.
Graceful and understated, Christy Turlington embodied elegance, refinement and minimalism. She often styled silk scarves neatly tied at the neck, softening tailored lines with feminine ease. Christy also embraced silk headscarves and bandanas, scarves tied as a belt or scarves draped around her shoulders adding a subtle edge to her otherwise polished looks.
Naomi Campbell
Bold and unapologetic, Naomi Campbell embraced vibrant prints and luxurious fabrics with confidence. She often styled scarves as dramatic headwraps or eye-catching accessories, adding instant impact on and off the runway. Whether worn as a silk top, a sleek headscarf, or a tied bandana, Naomi made every look feel powerful, polished, and unmistakably hers.
Linda Evangelista
Whether dressed in sleek neutrals, black, or bold, saturated tones, Linda Evangelista’s style was always chic, poised, and polished. She leaned into a Parisian aesthetic - elevated with a modern edge. Her signature looks often paired tailored silhouettes with statement accessories. Linda frequently wore subtly patterned headscarves and bandanas, along with neck scarves layered under trench coats and jackets, creating a refined yet fashion-forward finish.
Cindy CrawfordCindy Crawford mastered the art of 90s American cool – effortless, approachable, and unmistakably polished. She often styled silk or cotton scarves with denim jeans, pairing them with a simple t-shirt or button-down shirt for a look that felt relaxed yet refined. Whether casually knotted at the neck or draped with ease, her scarf choices added just enough flair without overpowering the outfit. Cindy showed that with a scarf, jeans, t-shirt or even a leather jacket you could feel undeniably chic.
Off-duty cool: how scarves defined street style in the 90s
It wasn’t just the runway where scarves made their mark. Candid shots of supermodels between shows told another story - one where scarves added elegance to otherwise laid-back looks. Popular off-duty scarf styles included:
Bandana-style headscarves often paired with sunglasses and jeans.
Thin neck scarves looped and styled with jackets.
Bag scarves tied to the handle for a pop of colour and pattern.
Scarves became a go-to for model-off-duty styling: easy to wear, hard to forget.
The designer scarves that defined the 90s
Luxury fashion houses were quick to elevate the scarf from accessory to icon. The most recognisable styles of the Supermodel era came from:
Hermes 1990s scarf designs featured equestrian designs, embodying the tradition of Hermes heritage. Nautical-themed designs were also iconic during the 1990’s incorporating elements like anchors, ropes and sailing ships.
Versace's 1990s scarf designs are iconic for their bold baroque prints and gold-chain motifs, epitomizing the brand's luxurious aesthetic during the Supermodel era.
Chanel's 1990s scarf designs epitomized the brand's luxurious aesthetic, often featuring bold motifs such as the iconic interlocking 'CC' logo, intricate chain patterns and rich jewel tones.
Ralph Lauren's 1990s scarf designs captured the brand's Western American-inspired designs, featuring earthy tones and classic paisley patterns. These scarves often showcased rich color palettes, including deep browns, tans, and muted reds.
Scarves from these designers didn’t just finish a look, they defined it. Worn loosely or wrapped with precision, each scarf told a story of style, status, and self-expression.
The 90s scarf revival: back in fashion, bolder than ever
Fast-forward to now, and scarf styling is making a strong comeback. From fashion editorials to Instagram feeds, the influence of 90s supermodels is unmistakable. Trending 90s-inspired scarf styles in 2025:
Headscarves tied under the chin with oversized sunglasses
Skinny silk scarves adding polish to minimalist outfits
Waist-wrapped scarves used as skirts or layered over trousers
How to style a scarf like a 90s supermodel - 5 easy ideas
Ready to bring a little supermodel energy into your wardrobe? Start with a single scarf and style it five ways:
In your hair as a ponytail wrap, headband or bandana.
Around your neck tied low and loose, or high and snug.
As a top folded into a triangle and secured at the back.
Over your shoulders layered like a shawl or belt.
On your bag knotted to a handle for instant polish.
Why scarves still matter
The scarf’s appeal hasn’t faded, it’s only evolved. Supermodels in the 90s showed us how a simple square of fabric could become an emblem of elegance, confidence and creativity. Today, scarves still offer that same promise: effortless style, with room for personal expression - they’re statements, they’re stories. Whether you're inspired by Naomi’s bold prints or Christy’s clean lines, there's a scarf and a styling moment for you.
Ready to embrace scarf fashion like a 90s Supermodel? Start styling by visiting the Lila and Me shop for artist-inspired designer scarves today!
Image Credits: Getty Images
