KarenAnyone who knows me knows that I LOVE scarves. I love all accessories but scarves, in particular, have become a wardrobe staple of mine over the years. The fact that my best friend is French and that I know many fellow francophiles certainly helps…I’ve learned from the masters and have been given many scarf-tying tutorials. At this point, I can rock a scarf with just about any outfit, in any season. Yes, even in summer!
Here are nine of my favorite ways to wear a scarf in the summertime:
1.Long and Loose Around the Neck: The same way that I might wear a pashmina scarf in the winter, I select light cotton scarves to wear loosely around my neck in the summertime. This look, while still very casual, adds a bit of polish to sleeveless tops, short-sleeved t-shirts and dresses, alike.
2.French Knot: This is the classic way to tie a silk scarf. If you assumed that a silk scarf is only appropriate in the winter, think again. This knot looks fabulous with shift dresses and fitted t-shirts ( ones with a bit of spandex in them are ideal). Silk scarves that are colorful and brightly patterned add a lot of visual interest to a solid or neutral outfit. This can definitely help to stretch your wardrobe and change up the look of your wardrobe basics.
3.Over the Shoulder Wrap: I tend to get cold in restaurants and other air conditioned places, so I usually make sure to have a scarf or sweater on hand. A large scarf makes a beautiful wrap when draped over the shoulders. Just be sure that the scarf is (a) long enough to offer adequate coverage, (b) doesn’t compete with the colors or patterns in the rest of your outfit and (c) added to an outfit that is modern and stylish, so that you don’t end up with a dowdy, “grandma look.” The photo above is a great example of an outfit that is complemented by a fun and playful scarf.
5.Sarong: How can I talk about scarves in the summertime and not mention the sarong? This is the perfect bathing suit cover-up. I’ve even worn a large silk scarf as a sarong over a white tank top and white leggings in the summertime. White offers the perfect canvas for you have a little fun and play with colors and patterns.
6.Bracelet/Wrist Wrap: The neckerchief is the perfect size to wrap around your wrist as a bracelet. I happen to love the edginess of this look and how it’s paired with the denim button down shirt in the above photo.
7.Head scarf: Admittedly, you have to have the right hair for this one (some cuts are simply better than others for this type of look). However, if you have the time to play around with this one, it can be kind of bohemian and super sexy.
8.Tied to a Handbag: A small-ish scarf tied loosely around the handle is an easy way to dress up a simple, structured and solid colored handbag. Instant polish! (But note: a bag that is slouchy, patterned or embellished in some way doesn’t really lend itself to this look.)
9.The Halter Top: I saved this one for last because it’s my very favorite way to wear a scarf in the summer. It requires a bit of confidence to wear because you WILL turn some heads! It looks gorgeous with a long white skirt, white or dark skinny jeans, black dress pants or even shorts. And if you’re afraid you won’t be able to figure out how to tie it, don’t worry…there are tons of diagrams on Pinterest and video tutorials on YouTube. Bear in mind that you’ll need a large scarf for this one (it must be big enough to cover you, so you can keep it classy 😉
I hope that these ideas inspire you to dig out your scarves and experiment with some new looks. As always, the best approach to fashion is to be guided by a sense of play and what makes you feel good. I would love to hear from you in the Comments (and even see some photos!).
