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This Is the Most Overlooked (and Useful) Hair Accessory of All Time

silk scarf
@aysha.sow | Design by Zackary Angeline.

The rules of haircare are simple and finite; as such, we know that you can't get a perm wet for 24 hours—and if you don't sleep with your hair wrapped in a silk scarf or bonnet, you're seriously damaging your strands. That's because your bed is an actual disaster zone for that stuff on your head. The friction of your hair against your pillowcase can cause split ends and dryness (two descriptors we'd prefer not to have applied to our hair). Ready to wake up with healthier, shinier hair? We combed the Internet to find 12 best silk scarves and wrap caps for hair that pull double duty as both a hair protector and a fashionable accessory. Below, see the ones you need to shop.

1. Silke The Isla

Silke The Isla $65.00
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In fantasy, we're wearing this glamorous silk wrap with an equally luxe set of pajamas; in reality, we're probably wearing it with our old college T-shirt. Luckily, its hair-protective properties (and overall chicness) aren't diminished by the rest of our outfit. Be sure to take extra precautions and rock your silk wrap after your blowout to maintain the style. Dealing with second-day hair got a whole lot easier thanks to this simple beauty find. 

2. Senker Silk Scarf

Printed Silk Scarf for Hair
Senker Silk Scarf $11.00
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A silk scarf with a playful baroque pattern that is available in 10 colorways will make even the sweatpants-iest bedtime look appear chic. You'll definitely be feeling yourself in this elegant, yet comfortable bedtime accessory. 

3. Grace Eleyae Gray Slap

Grace Eleyae Gray Slap $24.00 $15.00
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If you have a bit of trouble finding hats and caps that fit you comfortably, then you're in major luck. This beanie is lined with hair-saving satin, and it comes in three different sizes, a perfect addition to your beauty routine. Say goodbye to the inevitable frizzy hair you wake up to thanks to this seriously cozy cap that you can also wear outside throughout the fall and winter.

4. Evolve Satin Wrap Scarf

Evolve Satin Wrap Scarf
Evolve Satin Wrap Scarf $6.49 $3.87
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This wrap scarf works exceptionally well for those with relaxed hair or are naturalistas who want to treat their curly, kinky, and coily locks well. As a bonus, the affordable scarf is long enough for you to double-tie it in the back, so you can adjust the fit to make sure it stays in place all night.

5. Rebecca Minkoff Leopard Print Silk Scarf

Rebecca Mkinkoff Leopard Print Silk Scarf
Rebecca Minkoff Leopard Print Silk Scarf $38.00
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A chic silk scarf takes a good haircare practice and makes it fashion. This yellow and cream leopard print scarf is so stylish that we won't blame you if you get creative to make it your signature accessory all day and night long. Try tying it around the perimeter of your head to add an unexpected pop of color to your off-duty weekend look. 

6. Isoken Enofe Moe

African Print Scarf
Isoken Enofe Moe $20.00
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The brand makes bonnets inspired by Afrocentric heritage; sizes range from small to extra large to fit all styles, textures, and lengths of hair. This green and multi-color style is made of 100% Ankara fabric, and will have your textured hair protected all night long.

7. Shhh Silk Pink Silk Sleep Bonnet

Pink Silk Sleep Bonnet
Shhh Silk Pink Silk Sleep Bonnet $59.00
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Add this option to your cart if you're a heavy sleeper. Since this is a bonnet, it's less likely to slip off your head during the middle of the night. Slip on this pretty pink satin bonnet before bed; wake up with softer hair. It's that simple, we promise.

8. Round + Square Sunflower Dot Silk Bandana

Round + Square Sunflower Dot Silk Bandana $58.00
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Protect your hair and show your support for gender equality, all in one. The brand donates 30% of proceeds to the nonprofit Equality Now. Plus, the cerulean blue printed scarf is made in Italy, so you know the craftsmanship is on-point. 

9. Kate Spade New York Party Hearts Diamond Silk Scarf

Kate Spade Party Hearts Diamond Silk Scarf
Kate Spade New York Party Hearts Diamond Silk Scarf $58.00
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An added bonus of pulling your hair back with a silk scarf: It can help with breakouts because you're not nestling your face in your product-filled hair all night. This Instagram-worthy pink and burgundy silk option from Kate Spade is so pretty, that you'll definitely want to sport it all year long. Which will be super easy since it's a light-weight scarf that won't cause you to overheat in the summertime.

10. Pretty Persuasions Sweet Valley Printed Silk Bandana

Ruston Silk Scarf
Pretty Persuasions Sweet Valley Printed Silk Bandana $28.00
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Upgrade your basic black scarf with this luxe-looking hair scarf with floral accents. This budget-friendly hair scarf pairs just as well with loungewear as it does with your street style looks, without breaking the bank.

11. Anthropologie Ruston Silk Scarf

Rosette Silk Kerchief Scarf
Anthropologie Ruston Silk Scarf $114.00
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If you're going to splurge on a silk scarf, then let it be this rustic-chic option from Anthropologie. A vintage-inspired scarf that's as conducive to a good hair day as it is beautiful. At 25" by 25" it's large enough to do triple duty for your nightly hair wrap, a charming addition to your high ponytail, and as a purse accessory. 

12. Yanibeast Extra Large Adjustable Satin Lined Slouchy Beanie

Yanibeast Sleeping Cap
Yanibeast Extra Large Adjustable Satin Lined Slouchy Beanie $15.00
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If you think that your hair is too long or thick to wear a silk scarf at night, then you're in luck. This slouchy beanie with a satin lining is breathable and has your hair needs covered. The adjustable strap is an especially helpful accent that will ensure your cap stays on all night, even if you toss and turn all night long. 

Opening Image: Anthropologie

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