How to Stylishly Tie and Wear Scarves
If you’ve been a reader here for long, you already know I have a soft spot for scarves. I’ve collected them for decades, which means I now own enough to outfit a small village or at least hide a bad neckline on short notice. They’ve saved more outfits than I care to admit, especially on the days when my clothes feel about as inspiring as a bowl of plain oatmeal.
I’m often asked how to tie scarves, how to choose them, and whether women over 50 should still be wearing them. The short answer is yes. Absolutely. A scarf adds color, texture, and a little interest without requiring us to wrestle with shapewear or squeeze into anything structured. That alone feels like a midlife victory.
So today, I’m updating this scarf guide with some easy tying techniques, a few tips on choosing the right size and fabric, and ways to work scarves into outfits you already enjoy wearing. Most of mine are old favorites I couldn’t link if I tried, but the ideas hold up just fine.
Why Scarves are a Wardrobe Essential
Before we jump into tying techniques, let’s settle the question I hear more often than you’d think: should women over 50 still be wearing scarves? My answer is a confident yes. Scarves are one of the easiest ways to elevate an outfit, and they take up so little space that even the most ruthless closet editor would let them stay. I always tuck a few into my suitcase when I travel. They give my neutral basics a lift and make it look like I tried harder than I did.
They’re also wonderfully flattering as we get older. A scarf can soften the neckline, draw attention up toward your face, and offer a little warmth when you need it. They’ll protect your hair in wind or rain, hide a bit of sunburn if you misjudged the weather, and generally behave like the helpful friend we wish lived in our pockets.
So let’s talk about choosing the right scarf for the occasion. Once you’ve got that down, the tying part becomes simple and, dare I say, fun.
Picking the Perfect Scarf
Now that we’ve agreed scarves are firmly in our corner, let’s talk about choosing the right one. Not every scarf works with every outfit, and some are better suited to breezy spring mornings than blustery winter errands. A little intention here makes styling so much easier.
1. Scarf Fabric
Fabric changes everything. Light, floaty materials like silk, chiffon, and linen are perfect when the weather is warm or when you want just a whisper of color near your face. When temperatures drop, I reach for wool, cashmere, or pashmina. They’re cozy without swallowing you whole. And if you’re layering, remember that not every texture wants to be friends. A chunky scarf with a chunky sweater can make you feel like you’re preparing for hibernation. Softer fabrics balance things out beautifully.
2. Size and Shape
Scarves come in every shape imaginable, but a few stand out. Square scarves are classic and endlessly versatile. Long oblong scarves are ideal for draping or looping. If you’re just getting comfortable with wearing scarves, start with a medium square. It plays nicely with most outfits and doesn’t require advanced tying skills.
3. Pattern or Color
This is where you can have a little fun. If you’re wearing a simple, neutral outfit, a patterned scarf can bring it to life. If the rest of your outfit already has a lot going on, a solid scarf keeps things from feeling chaotic. Think of scarves as a chance to experiment without committing to an entire printed blouse.
4. Occasion
Scarves have moods. A lightweight cotton scarf feels at home on a casual errand run. A silk scarf adds quiet polish to a lunch date. Cashmere brings elegance to a winter evening out. And if you’re spending time outdoors in cold weather, go straight for something warm and substantial. Style is lovely, but so is the ability to feel your fingers.
My Favorite Ways to Tie a Scarf
Now for the fun part. There are dozens of ways to tie a scarf, but these are the ones I reach for when I want something simple, polished, and realistic for everyday life. No Olympic-level hand skills required.
1. The Classic Loop
This is the workhorse of scarf tying. It looks polished, keeps you warm, and is nearly impossible to mess up.
- Fold a long rectangular scarf in half.
- Drape it around your neck.
- Pull the loose ends through the loop.
- Adjust so it feels comfortable rather than strangling.
It’s perfect with winter coats or any outfit that needs a little structure.
2. The Neckerchief
Small square scarf, big impact. It adds instant polish without overwhelming your neckline.
- Fold into a triangle.
- Roll it into a band.
- Tie loosely at the front.
- Fiddle with the knot until it sits just right.
This one is lovely with a simple sweater or button-down.
3. The Waterfall Drape
For those days when you want a bit of drama without actually trying very hard.
- Drape a long scarf around your neck with one end much longer than the other.
- Loop the longer end once around your neck.
- Let it fall forward in a soft cascade.
It’s elegant and effortless, which is my favorite combination.
4. The Pretzel
This looks far more complicated than it is, which is always satisfying.
- Fold the scarf in half.
- Drape around your neck.
- Pull one end through the loop.
- Twist the loop.
- Pull the other end through the twist.
Give it a little fluff and enjoy looking like you spent more time on your outfit than you actually did.
5. Scarf as a Shawl
An oversized scarf can double as a wrap when the weather turns chilly or you want a little coverage at a dinner or event. No tying required. Just drape and go.
6. The Infinity Loop
For an effortless, cozy look.
- Drape the scarf evenly.
- Tie the ends into a small knot.
- Twist into a figure eight if the length allows.
- Loop it over your head again and hide the knot.
It works with almost any fabric and gives a soft, relaxed feel.
Style Scarves Beyond the Neck
Scarves offer far more than a single purpose. When you think of them as small, elegant problem-solvers, they become surprisingly versatile.
Worn as Hair Accessories
A scarf can bring a bit of refinement to even the most ordinary hair day. Tied as a headband or wrapped around a low ponytail, it adds a gentle touch of polish. And on those days when the weather has other plans for your hairstyle, a scarf can smooth things over without announcing it’s doing so.
Styled as a Belt Substitute
Looping a long scarf through your belt loops can be a subtle way to introduce color or pattern. It softens the waistline without the structure of an actual belt, which many of us don’t miss. It’s a small detail that makes an outfit feel thoughtfully finished.
Tied On Your Handbag
A scarf on your handbag is an easy seasonal update and a quiet nod to personal style. It’s a simple flourish that suggests intention without trying too hard. And should the weather shift unexpectedly, you have something graceful to reach for.
Scarves That Caught My Eye
Most of the scarves I reach for these days have been with me for years, which is probably why they behave so well. That said, I do keep an eye out for pieces with beautiful color, texture, or workmanship. A thoughtfully chosen scarf can add just enough interest to an outfit without overwhelming it.
Here are a few that stand out for their quality and versatility. Whether you prefer something airy and understated or a richer, more substantial fabric for cooler weather, each of these offers a quiet lift to the clothes you already enjoy wearing.
Caring for Your Scarves
A well-loved scarf can last for decades with just a bit of attention. Many of mine have been with me longer than some trends have stayed in fashion, and they’re still going strong. Proper care makes all the difference.
- Read the Care Label: Silk usually prefers dry cleaning, while cotton, wool, and blends often do well with a gentle hand wash or a delicate machine cycle. It’s worth checking before assuming they’re all created equal.
- Store Them Right: Instead of folding scarves into sharp creases, try rolling them loosely or hanging them. Both methods help them keep their shape and prevent the kind of wrinkles that take more effort to remove than they did to create. I hang mine over felt hangers so I can see them.
- Use a Steamer: A handheld steamer is far kinder to delicate fabrics than an iron. A quick pass is usually all it takes to revive a scarf that’s been tucked away in a drawer or suitcase.
Scarves may be small, but they have a remarkable way of bringing ease and refinement to whatever we’re wearing. They add color when we want it, softness when we need it, and a bit of quiet confidence on the days we’re still deciding what the day requires.
Whether you favor a single signature scarf or enjoy collecting them over time, they’re a simple tool that can make getting dressed feel more thoughtful and less complicated. And honestly, who doesn’t welcome that?
Do you wear scarves often, or are you thinking about bringing them back into rotation?
Thank you for this article. Recently I’ve become drawn to scarves and have a long way to go in order to understand it all. There are many ways you have shown me regarding tying them to where they don’t resemble a jumbled mess. Thank you for that and all of your insight into them. Now, if there was only a way to fix the neck from taking such a downturn. 🙂
Yay, thank you Jennifer, this is the post I’ve been waiting for! This has been on my mind for a while, I’m the one who asked if scarves made us look outdated, overdressed or like we’re looking for a rodeo (I do love bandanas). When I lived in the northwest we actually wore scarves almost year around for warmth, type depending on the season. In the southwest I don’t really see anyone wearing them. Ever. I’ll have to get brave and just go for it! I recently saw a video where a small neck scarf was worn reversed to create a v – shape over a high round neck top with the jacket over it, making a more flattering neckline. Hmmm, worth a try? In the meantime I’m going to practice the pretzel, it’s going to freeze in New Mexico tonight.
Go for it Laura! At our age, we don’t need to follow the crowd…we get to blaze our own trails!
Where did you find the brown jacket you’re wearing in the first photo? Is is suede?
It’s a camel colored wool coat many years old.
I also have a lot of scarves . I enjoy wearing them and agree that they can elevate an outfit and add color or some pizazz to an outfit .
I love scarves! Thinking about the best size to gift, what is your suggestion for a square? Bandannas are usually 22 inches, but I think something a little larger is better, I’m just not sure how much bigger.
I think a 52 inch square is pretty versatile.
This was so informative! I’m a novice to scarves but am finding them interesting lately. I will definitely be trying out your ideas! Thank you.
I’m thinking about bringing them back. I always wear one with my coat when walking and that made me think I should wear them more often. I remember wearing wearing a bandana one over my hair in the seventies!
I too, love scarves. I didn’t know “the pretzel” and love such a simple and great looking tie. thanks!
I love scarves as you do. I probably have over 200. I hang them from a hanger with plastic clothes pins. Just a tiny bit of one corner goes in the clothes pins. You can see a ton of them all at once. They stay wrinkle free and are always ready to go. I hang like sizes together on one hanger. Happy scarf wearing!
Great idea Linda!
Thanks for this! Encourages me to revisit my neglected scarves and perhaps add a few!
To store some of our Christmas decorations, we repurposed an oversized suitcase with wheels.
Thanks for all you do!
I love scarves they can add so much style to a basic outfit. I usually just fold into a triangle and tie around my shoulders. Recently I saw video using a long rectangle scarf. You hold one corner and let it drape down before looping. It gives you extra length allowing for the looping styles.
Another great thing about scarves is that you never grow out of them. I have some I bought in France as a teen that I still “fit” in. 🙂
Yes!! Great point because I’ve certainly “outgrown” some of my shoes over the years.
I feel newly inspired! I too have a large collection of scarves (a few from my mother’s NYC days in the 1950s) that I’ve mostly stored since retiring from office work. Most of mine are silk, so I think I am going to need to add a some cotton and wool options as well. Oh darn, that means shopping 🙂 I love the creamy shawl in the first picture – do you have details on where to find it?
If you mean with the coat and hat, it’s a Sabina Savage I’ve had several years. There’s a link under the photo.
So many scarves in my drawers…you’ve inspired me to use them more often. I love them all but sometimes I feel that the heavy silk scarves are a little overwhelming. I do love them though, so maybe I can get over that feeling! They’re too beautiful to languish out of sight.
Agreed. Some are so stunning they look like art.
I LOVE scarves! Have since the 60’s when I started working. All sizes and have used all the ways you’ve mentioned. Just ordered the silk scarf from Chico’s…. I’m no longer able to wear browns well because of my gray hair so I’ll bringing it into my wardrobe this winter by way of dark brown corduroy jeans and a pair of those dark brown suede boots you showed from Walmart this past week (couldn’t believe they’re so comfortable!). This scarf will bring some brown/beige to the top of my outfit when I wear my ivory turtleneck shirt and ivory vest!
PS… I’ve stored my scarves for years now by making a chain of clear plastic shower curtain rings and hanging that swagged from a couple hooks in my closet. It keeps your scarves from being folded and keeps them in full view so it’s easy to pull one to wear!
Love your shares….. Thanks!
Brilliant idea!
I love my scarves! They are one of the items in my closet that rarely get edited out. A couple of them were found on trips to Europe and remind me of the happiness each time I wear them. I like to wear them to add print to my almost totally solid color wardrobe. And my favorite way is to have just a peek showing above a crew neck sweater or a huge wrap under a coat! Kinda don’t care if they are in or out of style either….i think they’re elegant all the time
I’m with you. I heard someone say last year that she hadn’t seen young, trendy people wear them so they were out of style…which is like saying earrings are out of style! Total nonsense. They’re never out of style.
This is a great post — thank you!
I recommend museum shops for beautiful scarves. You can get prints that most other people are not wearing, and you’re supporting a worthwhile cause. Win-win.
And if you search this time of year, you can get some fabulous Christmas pins/brooches at a reasonable price. (You can, of course, spend a lot for their higher quality / materials items.
I agree Maeve
Beautiful scarves! I really need to add the ones I have to my wardrobe rotations. They really do add a nice spark to an otherwise humdrum outfit.
What a great post! Thanks for all the great ttips,I’m saving this post! And you look great in all of them.
Love this post about scarves. The blue one you are wearing as a head scarf is lovely. They all are.
I have a scarf storage sort of “wall” that hangs in my closet. It is long with many holes in it so you slip the scarf loosely through. I think it’s by Umbra. I have my own collection plus my mums. So plenty!
You are so spot on that they can add that special touch so many times!
Thank you.
You’re so blessed to have some from your mom. Mine didn’t wear scarves.
You make the scarves look effortless and classic. Thank you for the ideas!
I do like scarves, and wear them often. Shopping tip, the Metropolitan Museum of Art gift shop online has a stunning collection of artsy scarves. I bought a Tiffany repro silk square that’s gorgeous, for $30!
https://go.shopmy.us/p-34381336
I do wear scarves and have a few for every season. I remember in the 1980s scarf-tying was quite elaborate but not so now. What a nice touch to any outfit. Vera Bradley has pretty, colorful scarves. I also have found scarves at thrift stores that I hand wash first before wearing.
Thanks for the inspiration. I used to wear my scarves all the time, they dress up a solid color sweater. I will revisit my favorites based on your inspiration. Have a blessed week!
Hi all, I’ve been making my own scarves for years. I use them myself and give them away as gifts. I don’t have the budget for silk, so I usually use polyester on one side and soft cotton gauze on the other side. I love making my scarves with many designs and many colors.
Dear Jennifer,
I want to compliment you on this fine article about wearing scarves. When I was just starting to work in the 1980’s I wore scarves daily as an accent. I did not own much jewelry and scarves were my go to for adding that “something extra”. It’s a detail that can tie an outfit together ( no pun intended) and provide a finished look.
I still wear scarves but mostly in the fall and winter. You have inspired me to consider my drawer of scarves to spruce up an outfit.
Thank you,
Edie
I’m so glad you’re inspired to get a few out. They do so much for my simple outfits! I love them.
This is so great…just bought a beautiful new silk scarf at the Rothschild estate outside of Nice. Can’t wait to try some of these ideas!
How fabulous
Great tips! But how are you supposed to deal with those pesky labels/tags on delicate fabric? Do you leave them on? I ruined a brand new silk scarf trying to get rid of the tag and the fabric just shredded. Somehow I can never hide them properly.
Great question! I use a seam ripper and very very carefully snip the threads to remove the tag.
Do wear scarves but mostly for warmth during the colder seasons with the favourite being the long oblong type as often style it into an infinity type (regardless they are passé) to wear as hood or snood to accommodate the weather elements of wind/rain/snow. Whereas as to any other type with the exception of twillies (source: Amazon has a good selection) that one can add to the handles or tie on to a handbag, it is about all that I own. Super tips though Jennifer for those who do love them.
-Brenda-
I love adding them to the handle of my bags too.
Thank you for this helpful post. I’ve loved scarves for a long time but as I age I am discovering scarves are a must-have accessory. Your post is so timely and one that I will keep handy to refer to often.
I just bought the 21” square mulberry silk scarf in shades of blue. The rest of my old scarves are large squares and I have struggled to find a way to wear one without it getting in my way all day. Thank you for all of these tying options. We don’t have a dry cleaner within 40 miles anymore so no dry cleaning. I have a silk , wool and cashmere cleaning product that can be used by hand or even in the machine on delicate. As my hands are too badly deformed with arthritis to hand wash anything, I wash my silk pillowcases in my front load on delicate and hang to dry. They look like new.
I wear scarves all the time. Always have and always will. I have some that belonged to my mother and have to be at least 30 yrs old!! And (not to rub it in) it’s 61 degrees, sunny and glorious here on the coast in the Northeast. My favorite time of year!
You are so fortunate to have a few of her scarves.
I love scarves! Over the years they’ve become kind of my signature. I bought the Rag & Bone scarf after seeing it in one of your posts. Love it! I just now bought the one from Amazon. At under $15, what a deal! What a nice selection. I’ll probably get several more. They’d also make a nice gift.
Amazon has some gorgeous scarves! Price isn’t always important when shopping for a pretty scarf.
Great information! Just curious…is there supposed to be a #3 in the list of favorite ways to wear a scarf?
Yes, there is
Hi, Jennifer: So nice to see a column devoted to scarves – and glad to see them coming back into style! I inherited my mother’s and grandmother’s silk scarves and have been collecting my own, also, since I was a young teen, some 50+ years ago. The collection now numbers around 150. Also have a treasure trove of the lovely booklets from the 80s/90s that stores like Nordstrom’s and Talbots used to put out – for free – with instructions for tying all types of scarves. They should bring this back, again, for the generations since when scarves became passé and considered “old school” and “old lady-ish.” Ah, yes, everything old becomes new again ….
You’re so lucky to have those from your mother and grandmother. My mom seldom wore scarves.
It would be so interesting to learn how you store your scarves, if they’re categorized by shape, season, fabric etc, and how you can select which to wear when you have so many choices! You’re so lucky to have the collections from your mom and grandmother too! P.S. I remember seeing all the pamphlets with direction so that’s a trip down memory lane! Thanks!
There are many YouTube videos on the many ways to tie a scarf of every size! I recently traveled to Scotland and my favorite purchase was a cashmere scarf.
I know you knit as do I. Do you think knitted scarves are also in style? I have quite a few of them as they are easy to knit in a variety of shapes, colors and
textures. Of course, they are a Fall and winter accessory.
I’ve knit a few of those triangle scarves and to honest, never wear them becuse they seem dated looking.
As another knitter ( who lives some of winter in the far northwoods of the Midwest where it is currently 0F), I love my crescent-shaped shawls for cold evenings. It does require a certain underlying style-more cozy/rustic- but it works in the right setting.
I’m going to start wearing my scarves! You’ve inspired me. In fact our morning walks are getting cooler so I’ve been wearing a scarf to keep my neck warm.
I have loved scarves for a long time. You have a beautiful collection of them! Thank you for giving us tips on how to wear them.
Most of my scarves belonged to my mother. I am an on again off again scarf wearer. I love the scarves you showcased in the blog today. Several are very tempting. I think the Amazon affordable scarf you included is really pretty. It comes in lots of attractive choices too.
There are beautiful scarves that you recommended. I have several scarves but for some reason seldom think to add them to my outfits. I am a busty girl and my larger scarves seem to add too much bulk up top. But the the square scarves might be where I need to focus my attention. Thank you for another great post on how to add style to outfits.
Thank you so much for this article. You’ve got some nice scarves and I learned a couple of new ways to wear them. I also have a lot of scarves, and I’d like to know how you store them. I tried the Marie Kondo method a few years ago, took such special care in rolling and still ended up with a wrinkles mess.
I hang mine on felt hangers so I can see what I have. If I don’t see them, I forget to wear them.
I have a huge collection of scarves saved over 50 years. Love them! Great easy way to accent or elevate so many outfits. Thanks for all of your tips! I so enjoy reading your posts. Keep it up!
I’m glad you enjoyed this!
This is one of my favorite posts! I’m excited to reaqauint myself with my scarf drawer. I’m going to donate a few that are too bulky and see what I need to add using your guidelines. I enjoy taking scarves on international trips. I go carry-on only and scarves help build different outfits and take up little space. They also make great souvenirs. Thank you for the encouragement.
I never edit scarves out of my wardrobe but now that you mention it, I have several that have to be donated because their colors make me look like a corpse.
Scarves were all over France, it really inspired me to wear them more!
I haven’t been to France lately but I’m inspired to wear mine!
I love scarves. I have a lot of them. They are my preferred accessory!
Love this post! I have drawers full if scarves I have collected for 40 years. As I’m honing my style I’ve decided that scarves will be a part of my signature. Like you I’m waiting for it to cool down enough to wear them! Also, if you are working on tailoring your wardrobe for your season, scarves can be an easy way to get your colors near your face even if other parts of your outfit aren’t your color. Example, I caved and got myself a trench in the coolest taupe I could find (not a great color on me) but I can help that with a bright scarf in my winter colors. On that note Jennifer, thank you for the gray leopard! I have an oblong but have been looking for a square version. (Also I’m a huge fan if Allsaints!)
I hear you on the trench issue. I caved and bought a classic cool beige that’s still a bit warm for my coloring. It’s not my best color so I think I’ll take a page out of your book and add a flattering scarf!!
I just returned from France, where it was a little cooler and many were wearing sweaters and jackets. All of these questions about whether to wear scarves are kind of moot if you go to France. Virtually every woman of all ages I saw who was wearing a coat, jean jacket or warm sweater had a scarf casually and beautifully draped around her neck. I have just checked out my largely dormant scarf collection and will start doing likewise.
Awesome! Scarves are beautiful and shouldn’t be ignored. I’ll be doing the same as soon as we get into double digit temperatures.
Good morning! I was a bit surprised to read the topic of your post today! Are scarves back in style? I thought they went out of style years ago? If they are coming back that is wonderful as I have a whole drawer of scarves that I never wanted to part with as I do love the look! But I stopped wearing them as an accessory many years ago!
They’ve never gone out of style. If you love the look, you should wear them. Don’t let trends dictate what you enjoy wearing.