The Best New Ways To Wear Scarves In The Summer

In mild summer weather, I still love wearing a scarf at the neck. The key is choosing something light and tying it loosely, so it feels breezy rather than bundled.

When the heat really kicks in, I start moving scarves elsewhere, onto a bag, wrist, or hair. They still add color and pattern, just without making July feel more dramatic than it already is.

When the breeze returns, I bring them back to the neckline, but loosely. Think open drape, soft knot, or a small bandana tied with breathing room. The point is to add interest, not insulation.

I’m partnering with my pals Susan and Cindy today to share some tips for wearing scarves in the summer.

Here’s how to style them now to stay cool and look current.

Save Your Hair: The Jackie O Move

Wind and summer humidity are can be brutal on your hair. If you’re out on a breezy coast, on a boat, or just driving with the windows down, use a large silk square to keep your hair from being beaten to death by the wind.

Fold a large square scarf into a triangle, drape it over your head, and cross the ends under your chin to tie them securely at the back of your neck. It’s the ultimate Jackie O move. It’s incredibly practical because it keeps every hair perfectly in place, but it also looks instantly chic and intentional rather than messy. Add a pair of oversized sunglasses, and you’re good to go.

I also like to wrap the ends around the back to secure the scarf but keeps my neck from overheating. This is similar to a durag that’s gone in and out of popularity.

I don’t have enough hair for a ponytail, but if you do, and just want to get your hair up and off your neck on a sticky day, wrap a smaller silk square around the base of a low ponytail or a soft bun.

Dress Up Your Summer Bag

When it’s simply too hot to wear an extra layer of fabric, let your accessories do the heavy lifting. A canvas beach bag, purse, or any tote can start to look a bit repetitive by mid-summer.

The antidote can be as simple as folding a small square scarf diagonally until it’s long and stretchy, then tying it securely to the base of your bag’s handle. It adds an instant splash of color, and if you suddenly need it for your head, it’s very handy.

FUN BANDANAS

Wrap Your Wrist

If you want a pop of pattern but don’t want anything near your face, try a wrist wrap. Take a small silk twilly or a lightweight cotton bandana, fold it into a narrow band, and tie the ends together with a small knot. Then slip it onto your wrist, twist, and slip it over again until it’s snug.

It acts like a piece of textile jewelry. It stays secure, doesn’t trap body heat the way a heavy metal cuff can, and adds a fun splash of color to whatever you’re wearing.

Mine started out around my neck yesterday, and as the temperatures climbed, I slipped it over my head and wrapped it around my wrist.

Try a Small Bandana at the Neck

When the weather behaves, and it’s not a blistering day, a small cotton bandana is my absolute go-to for the neck. It gives you that touch of color and texture without any of the bulk.

The logic here is all about keeping it casual. A small cotton bandana, however, is inherently relaxed. Fold it into a narrow band, tie it loosely around your neck with a small knot, and let the ends sit slightly off-center.

I also like it tucked into the collar of a crisp white shirt. Because the cotton fabric is lightweight and breathable, it stays comfortable on temperate days and looks like an effortless finishing touch rather than a stiff statement.

Swap Your Belt for a Silk Scarf

I also love replacing my belt with a long, narrow scarf. Take a long, oblong scarf, or fold a large square into a bias band, and thread it through your belt loops. Tie it loosely at the side, letting the ends drape down. It introduces a pop of print and changes the whole vibe of a basic outfit.

If the scarf is short, I often thread it through just a few loops on the side and tie off-center.

Use a Large Lightweight Scarf as a Wrap

A small scarf is an easy way to add color, pattern, or a bit of polish to a simple summer outfit. Wear it wherever it feels comfortable that day, and skip it when it doesn’t. That’s the whole trick.

Now let’s head over and check out what Cindy at Cindy Hattersley Design and Susan at une femme X Susan Blakey are doing with their summer scarves…I know it will be fabulous!

Thanks for reading, and be sure to wear what makes you feel confident.