Interested in an instant style pick-me-up? Look no further…it’s the ideal time of year to start incorporating scarves into your outfits! Whether you have a drawer full of them or you are looking to add a new one to your collection, scarves are a simple and effective way to quickly add some zest to your post-summer/pre-fall outfits. Plus, they are a great way to get a little extra warmth while you walk to and from appointments.
To achieve the epitome of carefree, European, joie de vivre flare with your scarf, there are a few requirements. It actually does take some effort to look effortlessly chic. Here’s what you need to know to achieve scarf perfection:
Dimensions: A scarf shaped as an extra long rectangle, approximately 70”L x 30”W, will give you the most versatile styling options.
Fabric: To wear a scarf that feels super soft against your skin, almost to the point where you hardly notice you’re wearing one, and to achieve the billowy, elegant and fashionable scarf ‘look’ I know you desire, picking the proper choice in fabric is essential. Select a scarf made with a cashmere/silk blend, 100% cashmere, or lightweight thin-knit wool. There are definitely other beautiful and less expensive scarves available made with viscose/rayon, acrylic, or (believe it or not) polyester which will not feel as soft against your skin, but will still create the fluffy/billowy effect when worn.
Design: One lightweight, double-faced, solid colored scarf and one lightweight, double-faced, patterned scarf is all you need for your transitional season wardrobe. If you want more…go for it! Choose colors that are flattering to your skin tone and complement your outwear (ie. a lightweight waterproof trenchcoat, etc.) and/or outfit. It is also a good idea to select a color your makeup won’t easily show up on.
To increase the versatility of each scarf, I also recommend opting for scarves that have only one-inch eyelash fringe or none at all. Long fringe tassels can be visually distracting – it all depends upon whether you want the fringe to be a focal point in your outfit.
Styling: Here are some no fuss solutions to your how-to questions. Check out this fantastic how-to video by the adorable Wendy from WendysLookbook, 25 Ways to Wear a Scarf in 4.5 Minutes. (Note accordingly she uses a square shaped scarf in the first few demonstrations). My favorite ways to wear/tie a scarf are European Loop, Basic Loop, The Celebrity, and The Waterfall. Also, Zappos do helpful video descriptions of each scarf listed on their site. This certainly gives you a better idea of how a scarf might perform when you tie it.
How do scarves make you feel? On yourself? Or when you see them on someone else?
Image credit, clockwise from top left: Halogen Snake Challis Scarf $58, available at Nordstrom, JCrew Refined Bright Dahlia (more colors) Silk-Cashmere Wrap $75, available at JCrew, By Malene Birger Kashmino Animal-Print Wool Scarf $155, available at Net-A-Porter, JCrew Small Metallic Dot Scarf $59.50, available at JCrew, Diane von Furstenberg Kenley Animal-Print Cashmere Scarf $230, available at Net-A-Porter.