Scarf, one of the most versatile accessories, a well-styled scarf can transform an outfit on chilled days—adding Fifties glamorous, rock’n’roll chic, or contemporary cool. But how do you keep it fresh?

Experts speak to wearing a scarf, from winter through to summer. A style staple, fashion houses have championed the unique versions that have made them instantly recognisable – check out Burberry, paisley at Etro. 

How to wear a winter scarf 

If you think there’s only one way to wear a winter scarf, think again and try this. “Oblong scarves are useful when the look calls for something heavier”. It’s a chicky way to break up an outfit while drawing the eye up and down

1) The French knot

A classic knot with a stylish twist. 

Fold an oblong scarf in two, and wrap it around the back of your neck. Take the ends and pull them through the loop. Take the lower half of the looped side and pull over the top half. Place the second end through the new loop. 

2) The drape

Perfect for throwing on over a blazer or shirt, opt for vibrant colours and patterns to make the most of the style.,  Pop up the collar of your blazer and drape a long scarf around the back of your neck so the ends hang evenly in front. Fold the lapels of the blazer back down over the scarf, adjusting the scarf so it hangs how you wish. 

How to wear a blanket scarf

A large and a bit heavy piece of warm cloth scarf is a multifaceted staple for any wardrobe, offering a variety of sartorial solutions. “A big rectangular scarf is great for travel. It can not only keep you warm but for multiple purposes things such as a shawl, a blanket or a beach wrap. 

3) The easy-breezy

You regularly finish the look with a woollen blanket scarf in winter. Drape a large scarf, wrap, or pashmina around the back of your neck, spreading the scarf over your shoulders. Toss one end over the opposite shoulder. 

4) The lazy girl

If you don’t know the use of a scarf, the lazy girl is a good place to start. Simple loop a long oblong scarf once around the neck. 

How to wear a square scarf

Wearing Square scarves is wonderful for its versatility when it comes to lots of different scarf ties. I recently saw folded square neckties at Proenza Schouler 

5) The headscarf

A fifties and Sixties fashion staple. Fold a small square scarf in half diagonally to form a triangle. Bring the scarf over your head with a long folded edge of the scarf on your forehead at the hairline and the rest of the scarf draped over your head. Knot the folded corners securely underneath your chin. 

6) The neck scarf

The neck scarf, or neckerchief, is another staple reminiscent of Fifties and Sixties glamour. Take your lead from Hepburn again, this time in Roman Holiday, and wear with an open-collared shirt.

Fold a small square scarf in half diagonally to form a triangle. Starting from the small point, turn over the scarf in 5-7cm folds, and continue to double over again until you create one flat piece. Bring the scarf around your neck once (or twice depending on the size of the scarf), and secure with a tight knot at your neck. Twist to style.

How to wear a silk scarf

Silk scarves might evoke thoughts of grandma’s style but you need only look to Kate Moss to see the silk scarf’s rock’n’roll appeal.

7) The tie

You can go a little insane or wild— up to you, on the pattern for this one, this is more vibrant as there’s only one rule: keep the width skinny. 

Arrange a long scarf around the back of your neck, letting one end hand longer than the other. Bring the long end over the short end and wrap the long end under the short end. Brind the long end forward one more time, wrapping over the short end. Pull the long end behind the short end and then up through the loop around the neck. Tuck the long end through the front of the knot you created and adjust the length, tightening all the way.  If you want a formal look, up to your throat for a more formal look or leave it lower for a relaxed vibe.

8) The half-bow

With a twist on the tie, you can opt for a wider piece for this knot.

Drape an oblong scarf around the back of your neck so that the ends hang evenly in front. Make a loose knot on one side, about halfway between your neck and the end. Pinching the other side of the scarf in the middle, pull it partially through the knot to form half of a bow. Tighten your original knot and adjust the bow as you see fit.