9 Clever Ways With A Scarf

Scarves have a special place in any wardrobe, offering a simple yet versatile accessory that’s easy to store and provides excellent value for its price. As the seasons change, scarves become an essential component of our outfits, allowing us to add a pop of color, texture, and warmth to even the most basic attire. The French, known for their effortless chic, frequently incorporate scarves into their everyday style, while women worldwide wear them for cultural, religious, health, warmth, and fashion reasons. For older women, scarves can be particularly useful in highlighting their best features while subtly concealing areas of concern. As we age, our skin loses its natural moisture, our figures change, and our arms may lose tone – but by incorporating scarves into our Fall wardrobe, we can counterbalance these effects and maintain a sense of style. By understanding our personal style and incorporating the following tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of this autumn season.

What type of scarves are worth buying?

When it comes to scarves, think versatility and longevity. For Autumn and Winter, opt for luxurious materials like silk, satin, cashmere, and wool. These textures will keep you warm and stylish during the colder months. In Spring, cotton is a great choice, as the weather starts to brighten up.Rather than getting rid of your scarves during seasonal updates, consider them a worthwhile investment. They’re small and easy to store, making them a practical addition to your wardrobe. A diverse collection of sizes and shapes can be especially useful, as each scarf has its own unique uses.Make an effort to acquire one or two stunning pure silk scarves that will remain timeless for years to come. Then, supplement with more affordable options when you’re building a new outfit. These inexpensive additions will not only complement the original piece but also work well with other existing pieces in your wardrobe, especially if you follow the Capsule Wardrobe method.One of the best things about scarves is their ability to incorporate on-trend colors for the season without committing to an entire outfit. As fashion trends come and go, a scarf can be easily swapped out or paired with classic pieces to keep your overall look fresh. With a scarf, you can add a pop of color to make even timeless clothing feel modern and chic.

1 Use a scarf to hide a wrinkled neck

When it comes to revamping a scrawny neckline, I find that a simple scarf can work wonders. The key is to create a long band by folding a small silk square into a triangle and then folding it over multiple times to achieve the desired length. Tie this around your neck with reasonable tightness, taking care not to overdo it. Depending on the size of the scarf, you may need to wrap it once or twice around your neck before securing the ends with a knot.The knot can be positioned at the back for a more elegant look, or shifted to the side for a jaunty feel. You can also tuck the ends under your neckline for a polished appearance, or leave them out for a sportier vibe. Experimenting with different end styles and knot positions will help you discover which combination works best for your personal style.If you’re struggling with limited mobility in your arms, consider tying the knot at the front and sliding it to the back while keeping the scarf close to your skin. This tightens the neck and adds a touch of sophistication to your overall look.

2 Tie a scarf to cover a lined chest or fill a neckline that’s too revealing

When sun damage leads to pronounced lines on the chest, many of us seek ways to conceal this area. A scarf is an excellent solution, allowing for a seamless integration with your outfit. The key is to marry the thickness of the scarf with the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for.

In my case, I’m covering a slender neck and filling in a neckline that’s slightly too low. To achieve this, I’ve chosen a lightweight silk scarf that’s almost translucent. Given the wide cut of the jacket and my larger hips, I opted for a long scarf to add some bulk without compromising warmth.

To create a casual look, simply double the scarf lengthwise, then thread the free ends through the loop on the opposite side of your chest. Alternatively, wrap the scarf twice around your neck, leaving the loose ends to the front. Gently lap the loose ends over each other and allow them to spill out for a polished appearance.

For a smarter look, you can create a knot with the loose ends and then splay them out. Another option is to wrap the scarf around your neck, allowing the loose ends to fall forward, and then tuck them into your jacket or top. This technique can create the illusion of being taller and more slender if your jacket features a low neckline.

3 Drape a large scarf to camouflage a big waist

If you’re self-conscious about your midsection, fear not! A simple silk scarf trick can help create a flattering silhouette. Start by folding the square scarf in half diagonally, then tie the ends together behind your neck. Allow the fabric to drape naturally into a V shape down the front of your body. The weight and texture of pure silk work particularly well for this style, as they provide a subtle definition without feeling too warm or bulky.

While I’ve demonstrated this look with a dress, it’s actually more effective when paired with a top and pants. This added visual interest can help elongate your figure and draw the eye away from any areas you may be self-conscious about.

4 Use a pashmina or blanket scarf to cover upper arms

At 71, I’ve acquired quite the droopy arm situation. When I was Mother of the Bride, I made sure to invest in a lightweight pashmina, perfect for keeping those arms of mine hidden during a summer wedding. These versatile scarves can be worn either covering the upper arms or flowing down to the lower arm, providing effortless elegance. For the big day, I opted for the lightest weight pashmina I could find, ensuring it wouldn’t add any bulk to my overall look.To achieve this stylish effect, simply drape one end of the scarf over your right shoulder, holding it in place as you swing the other end loosely over the opposite shoulder. You can leave it hanging casually or secure it at the shoulder for a more polished look. Just be prepared to reposition it periodically, as moving your arms tends to slowly dislodge the scarf.This effortless style translates beautifully to winter, where a blanket scarf in wool or cashmere adds an extra layer of sophistication. With this look, your face and neck are highlighted, making you appear elegant and warm – even if the scarf is quite thick.

5 Fold a scarf to make you look slimmer

To create an illusion of slenderness, focus on vertical elements that draw the eye up and down your body rather than horizontally across it. One simple yet effective way to achieve this is by wearing a scarf under your collar with the ends hanging straight down to around your waist level (for a casual look). For a smarter, more polished appearance, you can knot the scarf tightly near the ends to create parallel lines that aren’t constantly fluttering away from the sides. The key is to find a balance between creating definition and avoiding bulkiness.

Experiment with different knot placements to find what works best for your outfit. Just be mindful of where you place the knot, as it’s generally best to avoid positioning it at the widest point of your bust. Adding a pop of contrasting color can also enhance the slimming effect by drawing attention to the vertical lines and creating a more streamlined silhouette.

6 Choose a scarf to make your skin tone look better

When it comes to wearing beige, I’ve found that adding a scarf can make all the difference. In fact, any top that doesn’t complement your skin tone should be paired with a scarf at the neck. This applies to most reds, oranges, and yellows, unless you have very dark skin – in which case, you’re lucky enough to be able to wear almost any color next to your face.To choose the right scarf, I’ve found that it’s all about experimentation. Try holding different colors and patterns up to your face to see what works best for you. A mix of colors can be especially effective, as it can draw attention to your eye or lip color without being too obvious. And if you’re like me, you might find that certain colors make your skin tone look even more radiant.When it comes to wearing black next to your face as you age, things can get a bit trickier. That’s why I’ve added some standard silk squares in black, pink, and silver to my wardrobe – they help highlight my skin tones and create a flattering silhouette. Simply drape the scarf loosely across your shoulders, tie it in front, and voila! You’ll be creating an inverted triangle shape that balances out your hips.Just be sure to pin the scarf through the back of the knot into your shirt or top if you find it slipping around too much. With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at tying scarves in no time!

7 Use a bright colored scarf to turn a plain outfit chic

In French fashion, there’s a willingness to take calculated risks that sets everyday style apart from its British and American counterparts. While these women look polished, they can sometimes appear overly safe or predictable. To add an air of sophistication and intrigue, incorporate bold color choices into your wardrobe. Instead of playing it safe with traditional color combinations, introduce unexpected hues through accessories like scarves. A small pop of color can have a profound impact on the overall aesthetic. For instance, I’ve tied a vibrant red pleated scarf to the back, creating an eye-catching focal point that demands attention. By incorporating one of this season’s trending colors or an unusual shade into your Fall wardrobe, you can elevate a plain outfit to chic. The key is to use these bold color choices sparingly, as statement pieces rather than the foundation of an entire look. Have fun experimenting with different combinations and discover how a little risk-taking can yield big fashion rewards.

8 Wear a silk scarf to make a casual look more elegant

To elevate a dress to a sleeker ensemble, consider adding a scarf. This simple accessory can instantly transform a casual dress into a sophisticated outfit perfect for evening wear. Try draping a shiny scarf over your shoulders, securing it with a decorative brooch, and you’ll be channeling the elegance of the 1950s or 1960s. Alternatively, tie a long, slim scarf in a playful bow at the neckline of a blouse to add a touch of polish. For a more feminine look, drape a pashmina over your shoulder, allowing it to cascade elegantly down your arm. With these styling tricks, you can take a basic dress and turn it into a stylish masterpiece.

9 Wear a big scarf to look stylish in athleisure wear

This Fall’s athleisure trend is all about the inverted triangle silhouette, which can be achieved by pairing clumpy sneakers with leggings or jogging bottoms. Add a simple tee or a generous-sized sweatshirt to complete the look. To add some visual interest to your outfit, wear a large square scarf that’s been folded and twisted to create a long, narrow shape. Loop the ends around your neck for a stylish touch. Who says you can’t wear a pashmina to the gym? Make the most of the fringe by arranging the ends just so.When it comes to accessorizing, I’ve recently invested in a lightweight padded jacket that’s on-trend this season in a soft pink colour that’s almost beige. To add some personality to my outfit, I’ve tied a small silk square neckerchief-style scarf around my neck with a knot at the back and allowed it to drape into a V shape at the front. The result is a chic and polished look.I hope these ideas inspire you to get creative with your scarves and mix them up with your current wardrobe. If you’re new to wearing scarves for style, don’t worry – there are plenty of simple tying styles to master. What’s important is how we can use our scarves to elevate our appearance with a little care and attention to detail.If you found this post helpful, you might also enjoy learning about the best cardigans for women over 50 and how to style them, as well as tips on how to wear leggings over 50.