Turbans Make A Comeback in Fashion

A few months ago, I was reading the style section of the New York Times where I came across an article that paid homage to the turban. The turban has traditionally been worn in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East for centuries. During the 16th century, imperialism and trade between Europe and other cultures in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East increased the influence of this accessory in European attire. Since this time, the turban has been a permanent feature for stylish women throughout the decades in American fashion.  Specifically, turbans emerged as a fashion staple in the Western world during the 1920s and continued to live throughout the 20th century; this accent has adorned several Hollywood actresses such as Gloria Swanson, Joan Crawford, Sophia Loren, Iman, and even Sara Jessica Parker wore one in Sex and the City II.

I wore a turban this past winter. It caused quite a spectacle among colleagues who commented that I looked like those grannies that one sees on the train. I was not fazed, I replied that those are fashionable mature women who knew about fashion, just like their predecessors. I will continue to wear them for the summer months as well. In fact, my mother is notorious for her turban-wearing and head wraps. As long as I can remember she has routinely worn colorful and vibrant head pieces to add attitude to her attire. I will be digging in her scarf collection this summer!

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June Ambrose

This is a fun but fabulous look to try. This look does not require fancy or expensive fabrics, silks or cotton fabrics that are about 1.5 to 2 yards long can do the trick. I highly recommend a silk taffeta because they are pliable and easy to twist and turn and they hold knots well. Because it is the summer, opt for bright fuchsias, azeleas, magenta, yellows or tie dyes. The turban can be worn with a tank top and a pair of white jeans and flat sandals. The only thing required to wear this head piece is CONFIDENCE! You have to commit to the look if you dare to wear it. Enjoy this fashion forward look this summer! Below are some pictures to help inspire your look. Also, fashion stylist, June Ambrose provides a tutorials that was featured in Ebony magazine that gives some different ways to tie the turban.   

Ebony Magazine: June Ambrose Turban Tutorial