How to Wear A Scarf: 14 Ways to Style Your Favorite Cold Weather Accessory
From classic wraps to trendy twists!
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Scarves are so much more than just a cold weather accessory! Think of them as a versatile fashion accessory that can instantly take you outfit to the next level. Basically, the coziest winter scarves make for the absolute best ways to layer winter clothes like warm coats, sweaters, and cardigans. They tie the whole look together... literally! We say that because there's really a variety of ways to tie your scarves in order to complete your ensemble. Sure there's the classic loop around your neck or drape across your shoulders, but you can also knot it into an eye-catching design, tie it to resemble a bow, or even use a belt to add a flattering addition to your outfit.
Sounds complicated? We promise it's not! And if you read on, we've got tips and tricks for how to wear a scarf! So, if you've got a scarf (or two or three) hanging in your closet just waiting to be thrown over a jacket, these steps are sure to help you through the season. Whether you're using a thick cashmere piece purely for the purpose of bundling up or prefer a thin silk scarf to switch up the entire look of your outfit, scarves offer endless styling possibilities. From classic wraps to trendy twists, we've rounded up an assortment of creative and chic ways to wear your scarf. You'll stay extra cozy, too! Just don't forget to add cute hats or earmuffs!
The Loop and Drape
Say you've got a big and beautiful scarf that you're wanting to show off this season, here's how to do it: loop the scarf once around your neck, making sure the ends hang down evenly. Next, take those ends and drape them over your shoulders a la Alex Drummond!
The Knot
Elevate any ensemble with this eye-catching knot effect seen here on Keira Knightley! To start, take a large scarf and fold it in half widthwise. After that, loop the scarf around the back of you neck so the folded side is in one hand and the two ends are in your other hand. Grab one end of the scarf and bring it through the fold then bring the remaining loose end over the top of the folded side and pull it through the fold, too.
The Bow
Two words: bold and beautiful! To achieve this look, wrap a scarf around your neck then tie a loose knot near your collarbone. Much like you would with your shoe laces, tie the ends of the scarf into a bow then adjust the shape so it lays how you like.
The Drape
Get all the style that comes from accessorizing with a scarf sans fuss when you just slip it over your head and let the ends drape down your front. With this one, you can don a bold pattern like Reese Witherspoon for a little extra oomph.
The Clip
With a scarf clip or ring, you have the flexibility to be creative with any and all of the scarves hanging in your closet. For this oh-so-chic lay, wrap your scarf around your neck like usual then place the pin or ring so that it holds the two ends together. The pop of metal draws the eye while adding subtle sophistication.
Monochromatic
It's always the right time for a monochromatic moment! Take it from us, wearing an alike color palette from head to toe looks polished and put together—especially when you throw on a solid scarf. The hanging lines will elongate your body while the similar shades keep each layer from being overwhelming.
Pop of Color
Fall might bring with it dreary days and chillier temperatures, but that doesn't mean your outfit has to match the mood of Mother Nature. Similar to Cynthia Nixon, one of the simplest way to do that is by throwing a vibrant scarf atop your everyday attire.
The Bundle
Doesn't Lily Collins look the perfect balance between cute and cozy in her winter getup complete with a thick scarf? To copy this effortless, easygoing style, drape the scarf around your shoulders then loop the longer end around your neck before letting it hang. You can then jauntily tie or wrap the two ends off to the side.
The Shoulder Toss
In a hurry to get out the door? This effortless (yet timeless) scarf style seen on Alexa Chung is just what you need. First, drape your scarf evenly around your neck then toss one side over a shoulder. And don't be afraid to play around with a colorful accessory like this one!
The Loop
It might seem simple, but this loop trend has withstood the test of time—and for good reason! Much like Heart Evangelista, you can loop it once around your neck then let the ends hang beautifully down your body. A thin silk scarf is elegant as ever, but you can also try this look with scarves of any fabric.
The Shawl
Here's how you can bundle up for fall in the most fashionable way: just treat your scarf like a shawl! A bigger scarf like Pritika Swarup's will work best for this one. Spread out the fabric and wrap it evenly around both shoulders. Finish off the look by leaving one end down your body while the other is thrown across the opposite shoulder.
The Cowl
Keep you neck nice and toasty while accentuating your outfit with a stylish cowl neck tie. To do it, wrap the scarf around your neck once so the ends drape over your shoulders. Then, tuck the loose ends into the loop of your scarf or the front of your coat or sweater. For even more fashion-forward fun, use a scarf with fringe!
The Belted Scarf
We love this look for several reasons: It adds an instant upgrade to your outfit and flatters your figure by highlighting the waist. Once you've chosen a scarf to match your ensemble, drape it evenly around the back of your neck then fasten a belt over the scarf at the smallest part of your waist.
The Over-the-Shoulder Knot
Transition from warmer weather to a cooler climate with this tasteful tie that embraces both modern and retro trends. If you want to recreate the snazzy scarf style yourself, you'll begin by laying it out in a bandana shape then draping the triangle end down your back. Take the loose ends across your shoulders and knot them at the neck. Voilà!
Macie Reynolds is the assistant editor of E-Commerce and SEO for The Pioneer Woman.
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