How to Wear a Scarf—Plus 7 Sustainable Options to Style
Deciding how to wear a scarf involves some thoughtful styling. These looks (and sustainable accessories) will help get you started.
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The scarf is a simple, though enduring, accessory. Whether worn as extra armor against the cold or to make an immediate throw-on statement, the strips and squares of fabric are enough to upgrade any wardrobe, particularly in the chillier months. And, like most things, the timeless staple becomes all the more iconic when sourced sustainably.
Scarves make for a worthy DIY—think cut-and-sew or crochet—populate thrift stores, and are crafted from eco-friendly materials by some of your favorite sustainable clothing brands. Opt for an exaggerated oversize option, a chicly knotted kerchief, or a scarf-and-beanie bundle for instantaneous comfort and style.
Should you need some inspiration, here are seven examples of how to wear a scarf for maximum outfit impact.
How to Wear a Scarf: 7 Must-Try Looks
1. With a Coordinated Bag
Ramp up a would-be simple leather-jacket-and-jeans look with a patchwork scarf, worn overhead for extra, well, extra. A color-coordinated bag, particularly in a bold hue, makes this outfit one to remember.
Recycled Patchwork Scarf, $30
This super-soft scarf is made from a polyester-cotton-acrylic blend crafted from recycled water bottles, offering a cruelty-free alternative to cashmere.
2. Twinned to a Manicure
A brightly colored (and blanket-sized) scarf is even more eye-catching when paired with a thoughtfully selected nail hue. In this case, a study in green makes an environmentally-minded accessory an even cooler choice.
Free People Shetland Recycled Blend Fringe Scarf, $48
Free People's boldly colored scarf is made from 50% recycled polyester for a fashionable choice with a smaller footprint.
3. As a Classic Kerchief
Lean into your glamorous sensibilities with a kerchief bound around your head. The addition of a printed scarf is at once decorative and protective and can be easily personalized with brooches—or even a super subtle tiara.
Madewell Winona Irene Silk Flying Fish Flying Bird Square Scarf, $65
This Los Angeles-made silk scarf honors the environment with a printed motif inspired by California's flora, fauna, and landscapes.
4. Paired With a Beanie
Name a better duo than a scarf and a beanie (we'll wait). Whether an actual set or a cleverly-coordinated duo, styling your scarf with a cozy cap translates to instant togetherness—meaning you can easily elevate your seasonal sweats.
Everlane The Cashmere Scarf, $140
Everlane works with a mill in Italy to give a second life to cashmere garments. This warm and cozy scarf is made from recycled materials and plays well with a similarly striped beanie.
Everlane The Cashmere Beanie, $75
Pair this chicly striped beanie with an in-step scarf for easy chic. Like the scarf, it's mostly made up of recycled cashmere and recycled wool.
5. As a Subtle Accessory
A small scarf tied around the neck is all you need to take your outfit from casual to can't-look-away. Pair with a denim jacket, a favorite blouse, or even a crewneck sweatshirt for effortless cool.
ABLE Emerson Scarf, $28
This silk patterned scarf from ABLE is neutral enough to style with virtually any outfit—and in any season.
6. For a Pop of Color
Fans of all-black would do well to reach for a sumptuous scarf in their (other) favorite color. An earthy and muted green keeps your otherwise monochromatic look grounded in timeless style.
Monsoon Brushed Blanket Scarf, $24
This soft and sizable blanket scarf is made from 100% recycled polyester, delivering seamless color and texture sans unnecessary environmental impact.
7. As an Afterthought
The most memorable moves are those carried off with ease. Toss a neutral-toned scarf around your neck to reimagine—and reinvigorate—your go-to sneakers and jeans.
Tentree Cotton Ribbed Scarf, $68
Tentree's organic cotton scarf features fibers cultivated without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers—talk about the perfect low-impact holiday gift.
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