How to Wear a Criss Cross Underscarf: Tying Your Hijab Over It

A criss cross underscarf is known for the V-shaped detail at the forehead where two layers of fabric overlap. This detail frames the face, adds movement to the hairline and makes even a simple scarf look smarter. Put on correctly, it holds all your hair and shows elegantly under your scarf.

What Is a Criss Cross Underscarf, and How Is It Different from a Plain One?

A plain underscarf creates a straight line at the forehead. A criss cross underscarf forms a V with two layers crossing in the middle of the forehead. That is why it stands out in styles where the scarf is tied further back and the forehead detail stays visible. To compare it with other types, see our guide to types of underscarves.

How to Wear a Criss Cross Underscarf

Tie your hair up: At the back-middle of your head, just above the nape.

Find the front: Hold the cap with the V detail at the front, right in the middle of your forehead.

Place the front edge: The point of the V should sit in the middle of your hairline, in line with your nose.

Slide it back: Pull the cap over your head and tuck your bun inside.

Check the symmetry: Both arms of the V should open evenly towards your ears.

Cover the nape: Pull the back down below your nape.

The criss cross detail should sit right in the middle of the forehead

How to Tie a Hijab Over a Criss Cross Underscarf

The best thing about a criss cross underscarf is the visible forehead detail. To show it:

Keep the front edge of your scarf 1–2 cm behind the forehead band of the cap so the V stays visible.

Take the scarf back over your ears from the sides, slightly taut.

With slippery scarves, tie the first layer so it overlaps the sides of the cap; this reduces slipping.

In turban-style wraps, a criss cross underscarf gives an elegant forehead look on its own.

Which Face Shapes Does It Suit?

Because the V shape lengthens the face vertically, it has a balancing effect on round and square faces. On long faces, tying the scarf slightly further forward to cover part of the V keeps things balanced. For details, read hijab styles for your face shape.

Criss Cross Underscarf Styles

Everyday wear

Classic criss cross underscarf: the classic crossover shape.

Criss cross slip-on undercap: a quick, easy style.

Criss cross tube underscarf: tube-shaped, on in one move.

XL criss cross slip-on undercap: for a roomier fit.

Hot weather

The breathable mesh criss cross undercap, which lets air through with its mesh detail.

Sport

In the viscose sports range: the zigzag criss cross sports hijab, the pinstripe criss cross sports hijab and the Hanfendy athletic criss cross sports hijab; in the micro range, the Pro X criss cross sports hijab.

Cap and scarf in one

If you would rather not wear a separate cap: the chiffon shawl with built-in criss cross undercap.

Chiffon shawl with built-in criss cross undercap: cap and scarf in one

3 Ways to Style a Criss Cross Underscarf

1. Under a classic hijab

Tie your scarf 1–2 cm behind the forehead band to reveal the crossover. Even a simple scarf looks neater and smarter.

2. Turban look

Gather your scarf at the back of your head over the criss cross cap and knot it; the crossover forms the front of the turban. Complete the look with a ninja underscarf or a turtleneck.

3. Sports outfit

A criss cross sports underscarf can be worn on its own; for neck coverage, choose one-piece criss cross sports hijabs.

What to Look for in a Criss Cross Underscarf

Fabric thickness: Under thin scarves the crossover layers show through; use this as a style detail or choose a cap close to your scarf colour.

Depth of the V: A deep V makes the face look longer; an advantage for round faces, something to watch with long faces.

Fit: The crossover means extra fabric at the front; choose a fit that sits closely on your head so the layers stay neat.

Use: Choose cotton jersey for everyday wear, and micro or viscose sports fabrics for sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more practical, a criss cross or a plain underscarf?

A plain underscarf can be worn invisibly under any scarf; a criss cross underscarf adds style when the forehead detail shows. Having both is the most flexible option.

Can a criss cross underscarf be worn on its own?

Criss cross sports caps can be worn on their own for sport and at home. Outside, they are usually worn with a scarf or turban.

Can I wear a criss cross underscarf back to front?

The crossover should always be at the front, in the middle of your forehead. Worn back to front, the V ends up at the back and the cap does not sit properly.

Does a criss cross underscarf show under a scarf?

If you tie your scarf slightly further back, the crossover shows and looks elegant. If you want to hide it completely, simply bring your scarf down to your forehead.

Does a criss cross underscarf slip?

A criss cross underscarf in the right size sits closely on your head. If yours slips, see the fixes in why does my hijab slip.

See every style in our criss cross underscarf category.