How to Choose and Wear a Scarf: Fabrics, Sizes and 8 Easy Ways to Tie It
Wool, cashmere, silk or cotton? How to pick a scarf for warmth and style, which size suits you, and eight simple ways to tie it for winter and transitional weather.
A scarf is one of the easiest ways to make an outfit look finished, and in a North American winter it is also essential protection from the cold. Here is how to choose the right one and wear it in different ways.
Choose the right fabric
| Fabric | Warmth | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Wool | High | Cold winter days, daily wear |
| Cashmere | High and very soft | Sensitive skin, elegant outfits |
| Acrylic blends | Medium | Budget, easy care |
| Cotton or linen | Low | Spring and fall, breathable |
| Silk | Low | Accessorizing, hair, bags, dressy looks |
If wool feels itchy, try merino or cashmere, or a scarf lined with a softer fabric.
Choose the right size
- Long scarf: the most versatile; wraps several times for warmth.
- Blanket scarf: large and square or rectangular; works as a shawl.
- Infinity scarf: a closed loop; quick and tidy.
- Small square: for silk scarves worn at the neck or in the hair.
Match it to your coat
A neutral coat pairs well with a bold or patterned scarf, while a colourful coat looks best with a solid, neutral scarf. Read our guide on how to choose a winter coat and how to layer clothes for winter.
8 easy ways to tie a scarf
- The simple drape: hang it around your neck, ends loose. Great indoors.
- The once-around: wrap it once, let both ends hang in front.
- The Parisian knot: fold in half, place around the neck, pull the ends through the loop.
- The double wrap: wrap twice, tuck the ends for maximum warmth.
- The over-the-shoulder: wrap once and toss one end over the shoulder.
- The shawl: open a blanket scarf over your shoulders, belt it or pin it.
- The infinity twist: loop an infinity scarf twice for a cozy collar.
- The silk neckerchief: fold a small silk square into a band and knot it at the side.
How to care for your scarf
- Follow the care label; many wool and cashmere scarves need hand washing.
- Dry flat to keep the shape.
- Store folded with cedar to protect wool from moths.
- Remove pilling gently with a fabric comb.
A good scarf is a small investment that lasts for years. Find more style ideas in our guides to building a capsule wardrobe and finding your personal style.