They’ve always been that fashion accessory lurking around in the background without getting their time in the spotlight. Whether as a head accessory or seasonal attire to keep you warm from the cold they have been around for many years and it looks like they are here to stay.

Initially they were worn by women around the neck or head to protect modesty or draw attention. Ranging from silk to batik to pashmina or gossamer, they come in various shapes and sizes. They can be printed, have fringe, be in plaid etc. Whatever the look they are the perfect way to accentuate your boring outfit and make it look effortlessly colorful and chic. After all the much sought after Hermes scarf is a true testament to just how expensive and valued a scarf can be as an accessory.

Scarves are fast becoming a statement piece especially as they are used to commemorate heroes, movements, political statements and now even the names of fashion designers. As they can be repeated, giving you a new look each time, they are quite versatile and worth spending some money on so here are a few tips on how to wear them.

Some popular styles include

Infinity Scarf – it is a circular scarf and rather new on the scene. They are called throw and go scarves as they can be looped or just draped over. They come in a variety of materials and colours including floral, plaid and knitted.

Blanket Scarf – they are square in nature and are meant to be worn in a bigger size. They often come in plaid, checkered or tartan and are generally found in muted tones.

Long Scarf – commonly known as oblong scarves and are probably the most versatile as they can be worn a number of different ways.

Square Scarf – these are best worn as head scarves, especially bandannas, given their shape.

Pashmina Scarf- they are the crème of the crop as the authentic ones are made from the wool of Kashmir Pashmina goat found in the Himalayas. Some may include a fringe element too. 

Top Tips

• If you’re wearing a simple t-shirt and jeans pick a colourful or printed scarf to add that colourful pop. If already colourful then go for a single coloured scarf of a darker tone to give it some depth. 
• Rather than just draping it around your neck, loop it around to give it some extra layers. Infinity scarves are best used as they are circular and can easily be tied.
• Since we live in a tropical country choose scarves which are of lighter, semi sheer fabric rather as opposed to heavier fabric as it will still be airy and keep you cool.
• You can also go professional look with scarves. A thin scarf paired with a blazer and pants are the perfect combo for that job interview or even a dressed up day at work.
• When wearing a printed scarf make sure your overall outfit has no patterns that will clash. Also make sure the colour combo of the scarf is pleasing to the eye.
• It is trickier to pair with a dress and can quite easily be a fashion faux pau. If wearing a fitted dress pair it with a lighter, shorter scarf so that it doesn’t interfere with your neckline. If wearing a looser dress drape an infinity scarf or a knit scarf around your shoulders.
• You can also wear an oblong scarf if you want to give the effect of a loose cardigan.

Head Scarves

Scarves also make a perfect accessory for you hair whether it’s long or short and can be worn in multiple ways! (Tip – if you have dry hair silk scarves are preferred)

• First of course is the pony tie where you tie it around and let the ends hang down. For better effect try and match it to your outfit or to make it really pop pick a contrasting colour.
• For the hairband effect use a square scarf, simply fold it in half diagonally then roll it staring at the widest side and work towards the pointy side. You can also knot it in the middle to give it that extra volume.
• If you’re having a bad hair day or simply haven’t had a chance to wash it just wear it like a bandanna. Simply use a square scarf and fold diagonally then tie the two ends under your hair leaving the third end loose. If you want it as a bandanna cap tie the two ends on top of your hair and over the loose end.
• You can also make use of the silk scarf hairband style a bad hair day as you put your hair up in a messy bun. Take your scarf and fold it horizontally twice, giving you a slim band to work with. Place the middle of the scarf right above your forehead, and bring both ends down towards the nape of your neck. Once you reach the bottom of your head with both ends, switch the ends in your hands and bring both ends of the scarf upwards again to the top of your forehead. Move both ends slightly off centre, tie a secure knot and then tie a bow.  
• If you’re feeling bohemian, try the slim turban which is perfect for a brunch date. Start by opening the scarf up fully, placing one edge along your forehead and bringing the other edge to the back of your head, covering your head fully. Grab that knot and move it to the side of your head and make a large bow.

How to store your scarves

The best method is to hang them on some type of rack like a tie rack. Make sure there are no metal hooks involved as they can get snagged easily. You can also drape them on wooden or plastic hangers. If you are really out of space installing a towel bar can be quite useful. For better storage colour coordinate it so that it’s easier to find in a hurry.

#scarfcomeback #scarvesfor2021 #fallattire #tropicalattire #headfashion #bohemianvibes #Hermes

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nikita Gomez

She’s an avid Marvel fan, an old girl of Ladies’ College and now an LLB graduate from the Faculty of Law, Colombo. She fell in love with writing when she joined her school’s magazine committee by chance and since then has seized every opportunity she can to pursue writing. Additionally she absolutely adores animals and promotes the slogan ‘adopt don’t shop’.