How to Stylishly Wear Scarves

Whether your neck is warm or cold, scarves can be stylish additions to almost any outfit. In winter, they serve as cozy accessories and in summer, they’re bohemian finishes to a dress or blouse. But besides a degree of learned confidence and grace, wearing scarves requires a basic knowledge of artsy fashion. Here’s how to find the right scarf and work it:

*Choose the perfect scarf: While there are numerous kinds of patterns and fringes, scarves come in two common cuts---short and squarish or long and narrow. The latter, however, are more versatile because there are more ways to fold them. Not only that, but they can also be very slimming. But regardless of which cut you buy, buy one in a color that color complements your skin and will match several items in your wardrobe. Other factors to consider are fabric, texture, and any ornamentation. Most importantly, though, buy one that you like. The more you like it, the more likely you are to actually wear it!

*Learn to fold or tie it: How you fold or tie your scarf can transform the mood of your outfit from casual to elegant with minor adjustments. Long, narrow scarves are, again, more versatile than shorter, squarish ones, but you can still fold the squarish ones diagonally into a triangle or horizontally into rectangle and then tie them around your neck. The easiest way to wear a long scarf is just to hang it around your neck, with the ends dangling in front. You can also tie a loose knot around your neck or just sling wider scarves over a single shoulder. Another way to wear a longish scarf is to place it horizontally in front of your neck, throw it back so that both ends are resting on your back, then grab the right end with your left hand and vice-a-versa, bringing the two ends to your front. Experiment with other forms of folding for a new look everyday.

*Coordinate your accessories: Not every outfit needs a scarf, but many would benefit from having one. Before throwing on a scarf, ask yourself if your outfit is already over accessorized. With as many tempting goodies there are in stores and online, it’s easy to get carried away. In general, keep in mind that only really long, dangly necklaces can be worn with scarves. (Scarves will probably cover up shorter necklaces, anyway). If you already have on a bunch of long necklaces on, there’s no reason to clutter up the outfit by throwing on a scarf, though. Usually high-statement earrings are the best and only necessary accessories to accompany a scarf. 

*Think of proportions: Scarves should always be appropriately thick or thin. With more streamlined outfits, a thick scarf can be a powerful accessory, so keep everything else to a minimum, with the exception of eye make-up if you are feeling particularly dramatic. In the winter, especially, avoid looking bulky by wearing thinner scarves with baggier clothes, but don’t choose scarves that are cartoonishly small, either; they only make weak accessories. Longer scarves that just hang around your neck and dangle in the front will make you appear shorter, whereas shorter dangling scarves can make you look taller.

As with any fashion item, never let ignorance or inexperience prevent you from trying something new. Scarves can be a fresh addition to any wardrobe, but you have to learn how to wear them!