Pleated paisley scarf navy ivory sky blue striped border

A permanent-pleated paisley square in navy and ivory

This scarf uses a fine accordion-pleat technique applied permanently to a 60 cm square, so the fabric compresses to a slim rope when twisted but releases back to flat with a gentle stretch. The print is a traditional Indian paisley (boteh) reworked in a cool blue palette: navy and ivory base on the body, a sky-blue striped border framing the edges. The pleating amplifies the print depth, making the paisley read with a 3D ripple rather than flat.

Construction and specifications

• Material: polyester satin with permanent pleat finish
• Open dimensions: approx. 60 x 60 cm
• Compressed width worn: 4 to 5 cm rope
• Print: paisley boteh allover, navy + ivory body, sky-blue striped border
• Care: hand wash cold, lay flat, do not iron (heat removes the pleat)

Styling a navy pleated scarf

Twisted at the neck above a denim shirt, the pleated rope reads bandana-cowboy. Worn as a headband over a low ponytail, it shifts to vintage 1960s and pulls the paisley into focus. Knotted on a tote-bag handle, it adds colour to neutral leather without committing to a full accessory. Browse our square scarves selection for matching paisley pieces in red and beige palettes.

Pleated bandanas as a wardrobe staple

The permanent-pleat technique was popularised by Issey Miyake (Pleats Please) in the 1990s and adopted across costume accessories from the 2010s onward. The key advantage over flat scarves: the pleated version stays in the rope shape without re-knotting, so a busy day at work leaves the scarf still looking deliberate at the end of the day.

Materials, fit and care

Polyester satin with heat-set permanent pleat. Polyester holds the pleat indefinitely under normal use; cotton or silk would lose the pleat in months. Care:

• Hand wash cold or machine 30°C delicate inside a mesh laundry bag
• Lay flat to dry; never iron or tumble dry
• Store rolled rather than folded to preserve pleat memory
• Avoid prolonged direct sunlight which yellows the ivory background

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

Will the pleat lose shape over time?
The pleat is heat-set into polyester fibres and is permanent under normal wear and washing. Direct contact with iron heat or tumble-dryer high-heat is the only practical way to lose it.

Can I wear it as a headband?
Yes. Fold the pleated rope in half, slide over the head, and adjust the tail at the nape. The pleated texture grips against the hair so it doesn't slip down during the day.

Does the paisley print fade after washing?
Polyester print colours are stable. Stick to 30°C and avoid bleach; the paisley pattern holds clear for years of regular wear.