While it may be true that scarves are a capsule wardrobe item, it’s important to learn how to wear a scarf without looking like an old lady. Now, nothing against those lovely older ladies out there, but should a twenty year old and their grandma really have the same style? Probably not.
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How To Wear A Scarf Without Looking Old
If you absolutely love scarves, but don’t know how to wear a scarf without looking old, you’re not along. Luckily, it really only takes two key pieces of advice. Because yes, there actually are styles and patterns you’ll want to avoid when you’re choosing a scarf. So be sure to keep this in mind when picking out a scarf to keep you or a loved one warm!
Styles To Avoid
There are three styles I think are just better to avoid altogether. The infinity scarf, the shawl, and the neckerchief. Now an infinitely scarf might not make you look like you’re older than 50, but it’ll definitely make it look like your style hasn’t changed since 2012.
As far as the shawl and the neckerchief go, these styles will make you look like your grandmother. Now if you just want a really big scarf for that cozy feeling, then that’s perfectly fine. But walking around all day with a shawl just gives old lady vibes. And for the neckerchief, most peoples’ association of them isn’t a trendy vibe, which sets them up for a losing battle. I fell for the neckerchief trap once, so trust me when I say, don’t go there.
Patterns To Avoid
In the world of scarves, there are absolutely some patterns you just have to avoid. My rule of thumb is the plainer the better. Sounds boring, I know. But, too bold of a pattern may either make you look like a child or your grandmother, and neither is a good look. Plus it’s much easier to finger knit a scarf if you keep it plain and simple.
Neutrals are your best friend when it comes to scarves because they have a simple stylish look without going overboard. If you’re choosing a plaid pattern, a neutral color scheme with a pop of color can look really nice. I’m absolutely loving black and white scarves right now! If you do want a more colorful scarf, choose more muted colors or ones blended with neutrals. But all costs, avoid polka dots and extremely bright colors, especially if you’re buying a scarf as a gift. I mean, this post is all about how to wear a scarf without looking old, remember?
Ways To Wear A Scarf Around Your Neck
So now that you know what not to do, you’re ready to learn about the best ways to wear a scarf around your neck. I’m not the biggest fan of wearing any sort of scarf in the summer (don’t get me started on silk scarves) so remember that this is advice is for styling scarves that will keep you warm!
For all of these styles, I recommend sticking with both thick and long scarves. If a scarf can’t be wrapped around your neck (with room to breath) and still hang past your chest, it’s too short. Thick scarves are more flattering and look nice regardless of how they’re styled. If you’re going to go as far as to wear a scarf around your neck, it may as well serve its purpose.
Draped Around Your Neck
Simply wearing a scarf draped around your neck is a classic style. No matter where you are in life, you can always grab a scarf on a cold day on your way out the door and just let the two ends hang. One of the best things about this style is that you can wear your scarf over or under your coat, depending on it’s length. For a scarf that’s draped around your neck, a long scarf is a must. Another great thing about scarves is that they’re so versatile, you can even wear your boyfriend’s scarf 😉 .
Tossed Over Your Shoulder
Wearing a scarf tossed over your shoulder can look very fashionable, but it may not always be the most practical. In my experience, the end that gets tossed over your shoulder tends to slip, depending on the material of your coat. It’s definitely a style that can take some trial and error to figure out if it works for you. I don’t recommend trying to keep one end of your scarf over your shoulder on a windy day 😉 .
Wrapping Scarf Around Neck
To keep both your neck and some of your face warm, try wrapping a scarf around your neck. This can definitely come in handy on an extra chilly day. If you want to add a loose knot to tie your scarf, the easiest way to fold your neck scarf is to fold it in half, hold it behind your neck, and thread the loose ends of the scarf through the loop you’ve created. Ta-da! Now you know how to tie a scarf.
This style looks great over or under a coat and can still work on slightly thinner scarves. Just make sure your scarf is long enough. Otherwise you may not have enough scarf to thread through!
If you’re headed to Paris, and are wondering how to wear a scarf in Paris, this is the way to go. There’s a reason it’s known as the classic French knot.
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