Why scarves are versatile accessories
Hi, I’m Em, and I am a big scarf lover and collector.
And no, I’m not talking about the woolly pieces indispensable in winter (not that I don't love those as well), but in this post, I’m referring to silk, satin, and even light cotton scarves, aka, the spring/summer/early fall ones.
Yes, I have a weakness for scarves, and I’ve acquired quite a few over the years — I simply can’t resist a pretty scarf!
Sadly, I don’t wear them as much as I’d like, but I’ve made a pact with myself this year to incorporate them more into my looks, in various ways. You see, I really do believe scarves are versatile accessories and very chic ones at that. They can easily transform an outfit or simply add some fun to it, and I thought of sharing ideas on how to do that.
Here’s what I have in mind:
As a head cover
Either to protect from the sun or to simply keep your hair in place (think a la Sophia Lauren or Audrey Hepburn), wearing a scarf as a head cover is iconic, and oh-so-chic (thinking back to those unforgettable photos…)
Wear around your neck
It doesn’t get any simpler than that, though you can play around and get creative here. Either simply tied around your neck, or made into a bow, or even a tie, a scarf can easily transform your look from boring… to interesting.
As a hat band or ribbon
Hat bands are generally fairly basic, so why not transform them by swapping (or covering) them with a scarf? A skinny scarf can easily do the job, but why not go dramatic with a regular-sized one, loosely rolled over with the ends flying in the wind? See what I’m talking about?
cover for your hat’s crown
The latest trend I’m seeing is wearing a scarf over a baseball cap, but as I don’t wear those, I say, use a square scarf tied around the crown of your hat for extra coverage, and why not, flair?
Wrapped around your bag’s handles (as pictured)
Another common use for scarves is to wrap them around the handles of your bag. You can easily change the look of your bag or help coordinate with your outfit this way. Also, this is a great trick for hiding wear and tear on those handles.
Outfit details: shirt dress (sold out in this color but available in several others — I shared more about it here); shoes (TTS); sunglasses; scarf (I also love these); the belt is no longer available but this one and this one are somewhat similar; my exact bag is no longer available, but this one and this one are similar; the necklace is my own creation.
Attached to your bag
I most often just tie a scarf at the base of the handle (as seen here and here) to add a pop of color, extra detail, or simply for fun. Coordinate or make it, stand out, the choice is yours!
As a belt
Sarah Flint has created a bestselling scarf belt that I dream of, but you can also simply tie a scarf around your waist instead of a belt (rolled or as I’m wearing it here).
As a bracelet
Roll it around to make it your desired width, and wrap it around your wrist. For this one, you’ll want to use a scarf that pops, and I’m thinking about this one here!
Or wrapped around a bangle for a unique piece
This would work best with a skinny scarf, but ultimately, use your creativity, and why not, make yourself stand out!
As a top
I’m sure you’ve heard of or seen this trick — you’ll just need a big enough scarf. Play around to find what works for you, and even try securing it around your neck with the help of a necklace.
As a hair tie or ribbon
Finish up your ponytail but tying with a scarf. If you braid your hair, weave a scarf through the strands, and take all the compliments! 😉
Shop beautiful scarves below (or here).
