Square Hijab, a Guide to Types and How to Wear Them

A square hijab is a head covering made of square-shaped fabric. It typically measures 110 to 120 cm per side and hasn't been pre-formed into a specific pattern, unlike rectangular pashminas or instant hijabs that are already sewn and ready to wear.

If you are trying it for the first time, it is normal if the result isn't neat yet. Square hijabs do require a little more practice compared to instant styles, but once you get used to them, a single piece of fabric can be styled in many different ways depending on the occasion.

This guide covers the basics: the differences from other formats, material types, sizes, and step-by-step instructions for beginners. If you already understand the basics and want to jump straight to brand recommendations, there is a more detailed discussion on that at the bottom.

What Is a Square Hijab and How It Differs from Pashminas or Instant Hijabs

Square hijabs are distinguished from other formats by their fabric construction: they are a complete square, not sewn into a pattern, and require pins or safety pins to hold them in place.

If you are curious about pashminas in more detail, Harraku has covered them completely in pashmina types and materials.

Types of Square Hijabs by Material

The most common materials used for square hijabs are four: superfine voal, ultrafine voal, ceruti, and Paris cotton, each having different drape characteristics.

This is just a general overview. If you want to know the details of fabric weight (GSM), edge-stitching types, and how to distinguish material quality from product photos before buying online, the discussion is covered in full in our article on good quality square hijab brands.

Common Square Hijab Sizes on the Market

Standard market sizes range from 110x110 to 120x120 cm, and this choice of size affects the styles you can try.

• 110 cm: suitable for simple daily styles
• 115 cm: most versatile, still comfortable for layered styles
• 120 cm and above: flexible for turbans or draping styles

How to Wear a Square Hijab for Beginners

There are three basic styles that are easiest for beginners to learn: the simple triangle, basic turban, and classic back-tie. All three only require a safety pin, with no sewing needles or additional accessories needed.

Simple Triangle Style

This style is best for beginners as it only requires two connection points and takes the least amount of time.

1. Fold the fabric into a triangle, place the long side on your forehead
2. Pull both ends to the back of the neck, cross them once
3. Bring both ends to the front again, pin under the chin or at the side
4. Smooth out the back so there is no loose fabric hanging

Basic Turban Style

Note: this style requires a fabric size of at least 115 cm so the wrap isn't too tight on the head.

1. Put on an inner cap (ciput) so your hair is neatly covered
2. Fold the fabric into a triangle, place it as in steps 1 and 2 of the simple triangle style
3. Instead of pinning in front, twist both ends over your head like wrapping a turban
4. Secure with a safety pin on the upper side, leaving a little volume on the crown

Classic Back-Tie Style

This style is most often used for semi-formal events because the end result looks neater and has minimal folds in the front.

1. Place the fabric as in the simple triangle style up to the second step
2. Instead of crossing in front, bring both ends straight to the back
3. Tie both ends into a knot at the nape of the neck, rather than using a safety pin
4. Smooth out the front so it drapes symmetrically on both sides

Common Mistakes When Wearing a Square Hijab

These three mistakes most often make square hijabs look messy, even if the fabric is of high quality.

Currently Popular Square Hijab Models

Floral and ethnic motifs are still favorites for daily use, while plain earth-tone colors are more sought after for work and formal events.

• Floral motifs, usually chosen for a cheerful daily look
• Ethnic and ornamental motifs, often a choice for events requiring a cultural feel
• Plain earth-tone colors like gray, mauve, and milk chocolate, favorites for workwear
• Dark colors like navy and black, remain a safe choice for formal events

Square Hijab Brand Recommendations

If you understand the basics and want to move on to choosing a brand, there are some specific things to check before checking out, ranging from the type of edge stitching to the printing technique of the motifs.

A complete discussion, including brand comparisons based on material type, is written separately in the article on good quality square hijab brands. If you are curious about which Harraku products are the best sellers, the data is also available on our top-selling Harraku products on Shopee.

One Square Hijab, Many Functions

Before buying too many, there is one thing rarely mentioned: square hijabs can actually be used for more than just headwear. Tied to a bag, used as a neck scarf during cold weather, or folded as a headrest while traveling. Voal fabric in particular is light enough for dual functions like this without taking up space in your bag. Not the primary reason to buy, but a nice extra consideration if you like versatile items.

FAQ

What is a square hijab?

A square hijab is a square-shaped head covering measuring about 110 to 120 cm per side, not pre-formed into a pattern, and requires a safety pin to lock its position when worn.

What is the ideal square hijab size for a beginner?

A size of 115 cm is recommended for beginners because it is flexible enough for several basic styles; it is neither too small nor too big.

What is the difference between a square hijab and a pashmina?

Square hijabs are square-shaped and need to be styled manually with pins, while pashminas are rectangular and can be wrapped more quickly without many tie points.

What is the most comfortable material for a daily square hijab?

Ultrafine voal is most often recommended for daily wear because it is light, breathable, and not too hot for all-day wear.

Is a square hijab suitable for a beginner who has never used a safety pin?

Yes, provided you start with the simple triangle style that only needs one to two pins. Turban or back-tie styles can be tried after getting used to it.

References

• Kumparan, How to Wear a Square Hijab for Beginners, Simple and Hassle-Free
• Orami, 15 Contemporary Square Hijab Models You Must Try
• IDN Times, Simple Daily Square Hijab Tutorials
• Popbela, Differences Between Square, Pashmina, and Instant Hijabs You Need to Know
• mybest, 10 Best Square Hijab Recommendations