A Guide for First-Time Hijabis: Underscarves, Scarves and Your First Shopping List

For many women, deciding to start wearing hijab is a beautiful step they have been thinking about for a long time. But the decision also brings plenty of questions: Which underscarf should I buy? How do I wrap a scarf? How many scarves do I need? We wrote this guide for first-time hijabis to make your first weeks easier.

Step One: The Right Underscarf

The underscarf is the foundation of your hijab; it largely decides how your scarf sits. Our suggestions for beginners:

Non-slip underscarf: While you learn to wrap a scarf, a cap that does not slip makes things much easier. Start with a non-slip underscarf.

Ninja underscarf: If you worry about your neck showing when your scarf loosens, a ninja underscarf gives you peace of mind.

The right size: Neither tight nor loose. Our underscarf size guide will help.

We explain every type in types of underscarves, and how to put one on in how to wear an underscarf.

Your First Scarves: Easy-to-Wrap Fabrics

Starting with fabrics that are easy to wrap and do not slip keeps you motivated:

Jersey and viscose: Soft, gripping and forgiving fabrics. The jersey viscose hijab is ideal for beginners.

Crepe: It holds its shape and does not show creases. See our crepe hijab guide.

Chiffon: Very elegant but slippery; try it once you have some practice, or as a hijab with a built-in undercap.

Viscose hijab with built-in undercap: the easiest start for the first days

Starting to Wrap a Scarf

Learn one simple wrap first and repeat it for a few days.

If you prefer not to use pins, start with pin-free wrapping methods.

Discover wraps that suit your face shape in hijab styles for your face shape.

Keep a quick alternative to hand for days when you are in a hurry.

Quick Lifesavers

While you learn to wrap, ready-made styles save you from rushing every morning:

Ready-to-wear turbans: a modern look in seconds.

Instant hijabs: the classic hijab look in a ready-made shape.

Ready-to-wear hijab sets: cap, neck cover and hijab in one, such as the viscose hooded instant hijab.

We compare turbans and instant hijabs in ready-to-wear turban or instant hijab.

Ready-to-wear hijab sets need no wrapping skills

Your First Shopping List

2–3 non-slip or plain underscarves (black, cream and skin tone)

1 ninja underscarf

3–4 scarves: black, cream/beige, one pastel and one dark colour (navy, khaki, brown)

1 ready-to-wear turban or instant hijab (for rushed days)

1 neck cover and arm sleeve set (for the short-sleeved clothes you already have)

1 sports hijab, if you exercise

Starting with neutral colours makes it easy to match your existing wardrobe. If you find colours hard to choose, see our hijab colour guide; we explain how to look stylish with fewer pieces in our minimalist style article.

Give Yourself Time

In the first weeks it is completely normal for your scarf not to sit the way you want or for wrapping to take a while. Within a few weeks your hands will get used to it and your morning routine will come down to minutes. Most importantly, start with pieces you feel comfortable and secure in.

Things You May Come Across in the First Weeks

Your scarf slips: Wear a non-slip underscarf and start with fabrics that grip. We have gathered the fixes in why does my hijab slip.

You feel hot: Choose breathable Clima Fit underscarves and light fabrics, and wear fewer layers.

Your underscarf is too tight: Check your size; adjustable styles with a toggle help.

Wrapping takes too long: On rushed days, reach for a ready-to-wear turban or instant hijab; the more you practise, the quicker it gets.

Adapt Your Wardrobe Gradually

Starting to wear hijab does not mean changing your wardrobe overnight. You can make your existing clothes modest with arm sleeves and neck covers, and add long, loose pieces over time. You can keep wearing a short-sleeved dress you love by adding arm sleeves and a ninja underscarf. We explain how to wear arm sleeves and neck covers in our arm sleeves guide.

Your First Step with Ecardin

As Ecardin, making underscarves, scarves and modest accessories since 1989, we have prepared the first underscarf and first scarf for many women starting to wear hijab. If you cannot decide which products to choose, you can message us on our WhatsApp line; we will be happy to help you choose the right underscarf and scarf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which colours should I start with?

Neutral colours such as black, cream, beige and taupe are easy to match with your existing clothes. Over time you can add the bright colours you love.

How long does it take to learn to wrap a scarf?

Most people can do one wrap comfortably within a few weeks. Ready-made styles make this period easier.

Which scarf should a first-time hijabi buy?

Starting with easy-to-wrap, non-slip fabrics such as jersey, viscose and crepe is easiest. Leave slippery fabrics like chiffon for later.

Which underscarf is best for a first-time hijabi?

A non-slip underscarf is the best start, because it stays in place while you learn to wrap. For the neck, you can choose a ninja underscarf.

How many scarves do I need?

To start, 3–4 scarves in different colours and 1 ready-made style for rushed days will be enough.