How Do You Wear a Keffiyeh?

If you've never used a keffiyeh before, then how do you wear a keffiyeh? The easiest way is to fold the square scarf into a triangle. Then you can wear it over your head, over your neck, or over your shoulders. Which method is suitable is determined by the situation, the weather, and the regional style you wish to follow.

A keffiya could then be worn with other traditional Arab clothing such as thobes so that it does not stand out in the way. Those who prefer to create a matching outfit do not need to purchase individual garments anymore as Al-Haq Thobes allows the shopper to shop in one place for them all. 

How Do You Wear a Keffiyeh on Your Head?

The basic triangle fold is the first step to learn how to tie a keffiyeh if you are tying it for the first time. Most traditional patterns derive from this simple pattern.

1. Place the keffiyeh so that it is smooth and unfurled.

2. Cross one corner over to the other to form a triangle.

3. Fold the long edge over the top of your forehead.

4. Do not let the triangular area slip behind your head and over your shoulders.

5. Adjust both ends on the sides so that they are nicely stretched and even.

6. Once you have determined your fashion, loosen them, wrap them around your head or fasten the scarf with an agal.

A keffiyeh head wrap should not be too tight or it will end up being uncomfortable to wear. Before tightening the ends, make sure the front continues to move; if it does, then alter the fold and position before re-tightening the ends. 

Do You Need an Agal?

Not always. Over any type of Arabic headwear, an agal is typically placed over it to secure the fabric. A keffiyeh may also be worn as a scarf or folded in.

This partly depends on regional dress. The terms are also sometimes interchangeable; kufiya shemagh and similar head coverings are often alike but may not have the same patterns and/or are regionally distinct.

Similarly, the traditional red and white shemagh of Jordan and the Arabian Peninsula may not be presumed to be the same as Palestine or Gulf-wide Palestinian or Gulf traditional headwear.

Can You Wear a Keffiyeh Around Your Neck? 

A keffiyeh neck scarf is the simplest option for those who are new to wearing them.

Fold the square across the diagonal into a triangle, place the apex of the triangle on your chest, and fold the two corners around the back of your neck. Cross them and take them back towards the front. Either make the ends loose or tuck them below the fabric.

This style, which needs little change, is helpful for cooler or windy weather. 

Can You Wear a Keffiyeh Around Your Neck?

A keffiyeh neck scarf is the simplest option for those who are new to wearing them.

Fold the square across the diagonal into a triangle, place the apex of the triangle on your chest, and fold the two corners around the back of your neck. Cross them and take them back towards the front. Either make the ends loose or tuck them below the fabric.

This style, which needs little change, is helpful for cooler or windy weather. 

How Should You Pair a Keffiyeh With Traditional Clothing?

When you wear a keffiyeh with a thobe, just don't couple random patterns. A simple head covering can help to balance a detailed garment, and patterned clothes can really make a patterned keffiyeh stand out.

The same principle applies in respect of a Moroccan thobe with a hood; the Moroccan custom of dress differs from that of the Gulf and Palestinian areas. Don't think that all clothes and head coverings are the same “Middle Eastern” style.

A kandura thobe can provide a cleaner foundation for traditional headwear chosen appropriately for the Gulf and its aesthetic. 

Common Keffiyeh Wearing Mistakes

Don't try to make the first try too complicated. Lots of folds and extremely tight ends typically make the scarf more difficult to manage, and not easier.

Above all, be aware of what you are wearing. Palestinian keffiyeh is a special link to Palestinian history and identity and a common black-and-white scarf worn by both men and women of Palestinian heritage. Clothing of some cultural relevance with a bit of background is better than it being an unknown patterned scarf. 

Conclusion: Start Keffiyeh With the Simple Triangle Fold

If you are still wondering how do you wear a keffiyeh, remember one starting point: fold the However, when you're still considering how do you wear a keffiyeh, keep this single tip in mind: simply fold the square into a triangle. You can then make a head wrap, tie it with an agal and put it over the head, or cross it over the shoulders.

No one single solution works for all regions and for all events. Look for a style appropriate for the occasion, find a wrap that is comfortable, and be aware of the tradition of the wrap. To complete the look of traditional clothes and headwear, look up Al-Haq Thobes and choose options that harmonize with each other, not form a single garment that serves as a standalone accessory.