The Handkerchief Top Trend Is Back from the '90s and Chicer Than Ever

Now that summer‘s sun has finally arrived, I can’t help but be compelled to spend my spare time—when not chasing said sun—sifting through Pinterest boards and Instagram pages in search of warm-weather outfits to emulate this season.

Although, admittedly, my wardrobe already contains most of the ingredients for a summer of successful outfits, I’ve come across a glaring gap that I plan on filling as soon as humanly possible. Tempted by the Instagram images that have saturated my timeline in recent weeks, I am contemplating trying the handkerchief top trend for myself.

Balancing both a casual and elegant aesthetic, the strapless top trend lends a look the relaxed ’90s energy that I want to bring with me all season. Ideal for quickly covering up on beachside days, the pretty top trend also looks impossibly chic when selected in a luxurious silky style and worn with a flowing maxi skirt or draping silk trousers.

Whilst you might have imaged that the trend was difficult to wear—with its strapless silhouette and cropped design, you would be forgiven for thinking this might be the case—it’s actually incredibly easy to. Consider pairing the breezy top with some linen trousers or figure-skimming skirt to ensure you feel comfortable all day. Alternatively, find a fuller-coverage top, or search for one with straps (our shopping edit below will point you in the right direction) and continue with styling as planned.

To get the look, simply select a square silk or cotton scarf, fold it in half and tie the two narrow edges into a knot behind your back. Alternatively, shop one of the “pre-made” styles on offer at our favourite brands. From Bershka’s clever elasticated style, to SIR’s supremely elegant silk top, high street and designer hotspots are rife with the growing summer trend.