Scarves and wraps are some of the easiest ways to update your look, but if you're not sure what to look for when you're shopping for women's scarves, you may end up with a drawer full of accessories you never wear. If you're unsure how to buy scarves that you'll love, then this women's scarf buying guide is for you.
Finding beautiful women's scarves is easy. But knowing what size and shape of scarves to buy is the key to looking great when you wear them. Once you know how to tie a scarf a few different ways that you like, you'll know which sizes and materials to shop for.
How to tie a slipknot
For this cozy look, you will need an oblong scarf, one at least 48-inches long, although a large enough square can be folded to make an oblong scarf. You can use a light silk scarf or a heavy wool scarf; the length is more important than the thickness.
1. Grab both ends of the scarf in one hand to create a loop.
2. Take the looped end in your other hand.
3. Place the scarf behind your neck.
4. Pull the ends through the loop.
5. Adjust.
How to tie a front wrap
Add an easy-going flair to your look with a front wrap. You will need a large square scarf for this, one that is at least 48-inches square. You can use a silk scarf or a lightweight cotton scarf.
1. Fold the square over into a triangle.
2. Hold the triangle in front of your chest, pointed down.
3. Pull the ends over your shoulders and back around your neck, crossing over behind your head.
4. Pull both ends down in front.
5. Adjust. You can leave the ends even or arrange the scarf so that one end hangs longer than the other.
6. Variation: If the scarf is long enough, you can tie the ends together. Make sure the knot isn't too close to your neck; the look should be loose.
How to tie a cowboy kerchief
You don't have to be dressed for the West to wear this look. This works with soft silk scarves as well as stiffer cotton bandanas. You will need a square scarf. It only needs to be at least 18-inches square, but you can use a larger square scarf.
1. Fold the square into a triangle.
2. Tie the two ends into a small square knot close to the ends.
3. Pull the scarf over your head.
4. Adjust.
5. Variation: If the scarf is small or if you would like the scarf to sit closer to your neck, hold the triangle in front of you, pointing down, and tie the knot behind your head.
How to tie a ladies' ascot
Add a prim and proper detail to your outfit with a square silk scarf that is about 30-inches square.
1. Fold two opposite corners of the scarf toward the center of the square.
2. Fold those straight edges again to meet in the middle.
3. With the folded side facing your neck, wrap the scarf around and tie it in a half-knot in the front, close to your neck. The ends should be even.
4. Tie the ends into a square knot in front.
5. Pull the ends to the back and tie another square knot to keep them from hanging down.
How to tie a head wrap
Channel your inner gypsy with a large square silk or lightweight cotton scarf, one that is at least 36-inches square.
1. Fold two opposite corners of the scarf into the center of the square.
2. Fold those straight edges again to meet in the middle.
3. With the folded side facing your forehead, wrap the scarf around your head and tie into a square knot at the back of your head, just at the top of your neck.
4. Variations: You can pull your hair into a ponytail holder before tying on a head scarf. If you decide to leave your hair down, you can tuck your hair behind your ears.
A few other ways to wear a scarf
Tie a long scarf in a bow around your neck.
Tie a bright silk scarf to your handbag's handle.
Tie a small square silk scarf into a choker.
Fold a scarf until it is narrow enough to tie like a men's necktie.
Pull a scarf through your belt loops and wear it as a belt.
Add texture to a monochromatic outfit: Add a chunky wool scarf in black to an all black outfit for a luxurious winter look. Try a ruffled cashmere scarf in cream with a head-to-toe cream-colored outfit.
Add a seasonal trend to a classic outfit: If metallics are in one season, but you're not ready to commit to too much shine, try a shimmery scarf with your favorite blouse and trousers for just a dash of the trend.
Flatter your face: Tied around your neck, a scarf in a color that flatters your eyes or skin tone can help you look more awake and vibrant.
Give color to a basic outfit: Basic black is great, but add some green, purple or teal to your outfit with a scarf and the look just pops.
Keep you warm: Of course, in warm wool, a scarf can serve a functional purpose, but you can still choose one in your favorite color or pattern.
I have a short neck. Can I wear scarves?
Yes, you can actually make your neck appear longer when you wear one draped around your neck. However, you will want to avoid tying scarves like chokers, which would have the opposite effect than you want.
Do I need to have my scarves dry cleaned?
Most scarves do need to be dry cleaned, and the product description should tell you if the scarf you are looking at will need to be. Generally, you can use the same guidelines with scarves as you would with other clothing: If it is made out of a delicate fiber, like wool or silk, then you will want to have it dry cleaned, but cotton or polyester can often be laundered at home.
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Layer for warmth in the winter
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