With cool weather officially here, there is no time like the present to brush up on your layering, draping, cocooning, swathing-game in the latest scarf styles. The scarf is usually created as a finishing accessory for wintry outfits, but we think it can be upgraded to be the centrepiece of an outfit. From a pop of colour to modern monochrome, cashmere to wool, alpaca and more – these are the pieces you’ll wear on repeat this season and the next.
1. Winter Layering
The key to winter dressing is lots of cosy accessories and layers. Play with scale and texture with chunky, oversized scarves made out of exquisite fabrications like mohair, alpaca and merino for maximum warmth. Investing in quality fabrications not only feel good, but will last season’s when cared for properly. For that inbetween weather, opt for a fine wool scarf that’s easily folded and packed in a work tote and pulled out when you need it most. A skinnier style scarf can help pull together a look without adding too much extra bulk.
For a directional look that is inspired by the street style of New York and Copenhagen, replace a hat or beanie with a scarf to protect against the chill and drape over your head before securing around your neck like a balaclava. Finish with a longline camel trench coat, a v neck knit, black suit pants, and leather boots.
2. Monochrome Styling
An outfit of head-to-toe matching hues is a guaranteed way to look instantly polished and put together. Opt for soft, light tones like buttery neutrals to lean into the quiet luxury trend. For another take on a matching look, if the weather allows, skip finishing an outfit with the traditional jacket or coat and instead, throw a scarf over your shoulders in a matching hue. Or opt for a scarf and cardigan in the same yarn for the ultimate coordination. These pieces are great paired separately but even better together.
3. Autumn Outfitting
When the weather transitions from summer to autumn, we look forward to bringing our favourite summer pieces into the new season too. Where off the shoulder tops and blouses might be too thin and skin baring for when the chill hits, scarves weather proof your look and are easy to shed once you enter the office or return home. Finish the look with impeccably tailored pants, an oversized trench coat and polished loafers for an outfit that is refined and ready for whatever your day brings.
4. Inject A Pop of Colour
Colour shy? When the weather is dark and cold, it’s easy to reach for black pieces that reflect the winter mood. From thick, oversized wool-blend coats to leather separates, impeccably tailored suiting and long, sweeping dresses – the outfitting and layering opportunities are endless when you reach for the same hue. For an entry-level foray into colour, we recommend adding a contrasting scarf that’s as chic as it is warm. Large, oversized knits are guaranteed to add an extra layer for the depth of winter, and opt for pops of electric blue or rich browns for a statement touch of colour. Practicality aside, the perfect accessory can make or break a look and a scarf and is a nod to the dopamine dressing trend which can help brighten the darkest day.
5. How to Tie Your Scarf
For a refresher on how to tie a scarf discover our tips below.
The Easy-to-Toss Scarf: Drape over shoulders, cross one side over and toss it over the opposite shoulder for a cool, nonchalant look.
The Cinched Scarf: Wrap around the neck, spread over shoulders, and secure with a belt at the waist for a shaped silhouette.
The Balaclava-Style Scarf: Drape over your head and wrap around your neck for a scarf that doubles as a balaclava adding extra protection from the elements.
The Single-Loop Scarf: Loop a long scarf once around the neck, allowing ends to drape for an effortless style.
The Pull-Through Scarf: Fold in half, loop around the neck, and pull ends through the loop for snug warmth.
The Funnel Neck Scarf: Utilise its turtleneck base for warmth, styling open or closed for a chic winter look.
6. So, What Scarf Should I Invest In?
A warming outfit essential or an ensemble centrepiece, how you want to treat and wear your scarf should inform exactly what style you decide to add to your wardrobe. If you are typically a monochrome dresser, a bright and bold bottle green or vivid red might just be the winter pick-me-up your closet needs. If you’re keen to experiment and play more in pattern, a scarf is a great entry level addition. Needless to say, the traditional, heritage patterns will never be out of style – herringbone, chequered or stripe.
And lastly, if you want to ensure your next scarf fuses form with fashion and keeps your top-half warm while looking polished and put together, do not look past warm, natural-fibre woollen, viscose and cotton varieties that are breathable and durable.