The underrated summer accessory that can elevate any casual outfit.
Scarves — they’re probably something you’ve collected in your closet, but rarely ever use. Some may be too heavy for Texas weather, and others might just not fit with your style in this current moment.
But bandana scarves — now these are made for Texas.
They’ll take on your sweat in the heat of summer and give you that touch of southwestern style that us Austinites love.
So this week, I’m sharing 4 easy ways to style the bandana scarf featuring my own favorite one from local maker and owner of Tawa Ties, Tabria Williford.
HOW I’M TYING THE BANDANA SCARF
TIE TECHNIQUE ONE: COWGIRL TIE
Featured scarf: Tawa Ties large Buttercup scarf
TIE TECHNIQUE TWO: GIRL SCOUT TIE
cowgirl tie
girl scout tie
Q & A WITH TABRIA WILLIFORD, OWNER AND DESIGNER AT TAWA TIES
10. Why did you develop the brand you did? What does it mean to you and what do you think it means to your clients?
I developed Tawa Ties in December of 2018. It started out as an opportunity to mesh a lot of my interest. I was an aspiring designer who enjoyed being in outdoor settings and community work. Creating my own products and watching them evolve has been so much fun to see. I’ve become a better and more thoughtful designer. I’ve enjoyed connecting people with nonprofits and their initiatives in an artistic way. I hope my buyers find joy in their unique hand-printed pieces but I hope even more, they take time to follow the organization's my company donates proceeds to.
9. What is the favorite piece you make or sell? Why does it stand out?
Red Rock Wonderland is my favorite piece! I really love how the bandana illustrates Caprock Canyon State Park. Seeing the piece come together was really exciting. It was a really difficult piece to hand carve but I think the final product aligns really well with the rock formation and catches similar layers and textures of the land as if you were actually there in person!
BANDANA SCARF
LOOK ONE
Outfit ingredients: light neutral sundress, light neutral sandals, bold neutral statement earrings, bandana scarf, straw hat
Q & A WITH TABRIA WILLIFORD, OWNER AND DESIGNER AT TAWA TIES
8. How has being an entrepreneur affected the way you view the world?
Being an entrepreneur has allowed me to approach life differently in so many ways. The biggest lesson that comes to mind is allowing myself to be open to people's perspectives on an array of issues. It’s allowed me to think through different ways on how I approach my own business. Another big lesson is allowing myself to be vulnerable. I truly believe some of the most pivotal and critical times in my business have been my most vulnerable times. Lastly, is having patience and not forcing my art when I’m feeling uninspired or in a funk. This lesson has been critical to my growth and the rebranding of my business which is set to release in August!
7. Does being a business owner impact your personal life? How?
For me, absolutely! I know my boyfriend would say so haha!! He’s supportive and understands my business is really an extension of who I am. I’ll be outside and a landscape might inspire me and I’ll start talking about it’s meaning and significance out loud with my partner. It’s hard to separate my business and personal life because I love the work I do so much! I would say as far as balance it’s important to turn off and relax or do other things you enjoy my time with close friends and family. It’s also a great way to reset and prevent burnout.
Tabria Williford, owner and designer, Tawa Ties
BANDANA SCARF
LOOK TWO
Outfit ingredients: graphic tee, denim skirt/shorts, wedge sandals, statement earrings, bandana scarf, headband
Q & A WITH TABRIA WILLIFORD, OWNER AND DESIGNER AT TAWA TIES
6. What do you hope will change about your business in five years?
If I’m being honest I hope there’s an increase in representation in those who are attracted and take interest in my brand. It’s actually something I’m working through right now with rebranding. While I’m currently focused on initiatives and increasing awareness in the African American community, I’d like that to expand to focus on all minorities and their experiences. It's really important to me that I have a chance to listen and understand different walks of life and learn ways to better support diverse groups of people.
5. What do you hope will be the same about your business in five years?
I hope I continue to have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are creating awesome and unique outdoor experiences. There are so many ambitious and kind people in this space and I’m so excited to continue to grow my network to ensure long term inclusion.
BANDANA SCARF
LOOK THREE
Outfit ingredients: button down shirt, ripped jeans, summer sandals, statement earrings, bandana scarf
Q & A WITH TABRIA WILLIFORD, OWNER AND DESIGNER AT TAWA TIES
4. How do you try to support Austin women?
Before COVID, it was much easier to support my women friends who have businesses. Although it’s more difficult, I love to feature them and share their stories on my own media. It’s really brought together women from different backgrounds and that makes me so happy. I love when my friends are able to collaborate and bring a fresh new vision to their work.
3. What can the city government or local community do to support your business (besides visiting it more)?
I want people to know my business extends so much beyond apparel. Tawa Ties illustrates the contours and land in which we wander but we are also working with nonprofits that work effortlessly to increase diversity in outdoor spaces. I think the city of Austin can work to incorporate and fund more programs that encourage diversity within our own community.
BANDANA SCARF
LOOK FOUR
Outfit ingredients: silky skirt, spaghetti strap top, platform sandals, wide brim hat, gold hoops, bandana scarf
Q & A WITH TABRIA WILLIFORD, OWNER AND DESIGNER AT TAWA TIES
2. What about your brand or yourself do you most associate with Austin? How does it reflect Austin?
Exploration in outdoor spaces is a big tribute to how I associate my brand with Austin. I’ve lived here for 5 years and actually grew up commuting from San Antonio to play soccer in Austin. Austin has always provided an array of outdoor activities that has allowed me to stay active and get a good reset mentally.
1.If you were allowed to only eat one food every day for the rest of your life, but it provided you all the nutrition you needed, what would that food be and what do you love about it?
I’m obsessed with rare steak pho. When I’m having a bad day that will always cheer me up. I love how cleansing the dish can be. It’s full of warmth and texture and I always choose to add a kick of spice!
