Different Types of Scarves: Everything You Need to Know!
Scarves are one of the most versatile accessories in your wardrobe. You can wear them to dress up an outfit or make it more casual. They can be worn around your neck, tied over a shoulder, wrapped around your head like a turban or draped loosely around your waist like a belt.
In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the different types of scarves, how to wear them, and other relevant things.
Different Types of Scarves
There are many different types of scarves to choose from. While some are designed for warmth and others function as a fashion accessory, they all have the same basic shape.
Here are the most common ones –
Plain Scarves
These scarves are solid, no pattern or print. They come in a variety of types from silk to viscose and cotton. You can wear them as they are or layer them with other prints for added dimension.
Wear one as a belt around your waist, looped through the elbows as arm warmers, as a headband or tie one on your bag to add that chic look.
How to Wear
Wrap a plain scarf around your neck and secure one end with a brooch or pin. You can also just tie it loosely in a knot.
When to Wear
Wear them any time of the year, whether it’s winter or summer.
When Not to Wear
Don’t wear them with too many colors or prints. Also avoid wearing them with outerwear like jackets – it’ll make the whole outfit look boring.
Plaid Scarves
Plaid scarves are the perfect accessory for anyone who loves to wear bold patterns. If you’re searching for a low-cost option to spruce up your winter wardrobe this season, don’t pass up the chance to get yourself a plaid scarf!
How to Wear
To create the most fashionable look possible when wearing a plaid scarf, pair it with either solid colors or more muted patterns.
When to Wear
Plaid scarves are the perfect accessory for wearing during cold winter days, but they’re also great for dressing up your outfit when it’s chilly outside in early spring. You may mix and match your plaid with a variety of shirts to see which combination looks best on you.
When Not to Wear
As mentioned above, plaid scarves aren’t best worn with pattern-heavy outfits, so make sure to only bring them out during the winter and early spring months.
Patterned Scarves
The basic brown beanie is a timeless classic, while the brightly colored patterned scarves are the ideal finishing touch to any winter wardrobe. If you want to add some flair and style to your winter attire, pick up a patterned scarf today!
How To Wear
Hands down the most popular ways of wearing these accessories is tied around your neck, wrapped around your neck like a poncho, or tied in front of your chest.
When to Wear
Patterned scarves are great for wearing when it’s cold outside and during chilly spring days, but they’re also perfect to wear on warmer winter days if you want to add a little extra flair!
When Not to Wear
If you’re going to wear a lot of color and patterns in your outfit, don’t bring out a patterned scarf; it looks good with simple ensembles.
Hair Scarves
These types of scarves are usually worn by individuals with long hair to help them keep their many hairstyles in place. Hair scarves can be tied around the head or simply slid to the back, allowing an individual’s hair to fall over the scarf.
How to Wear
In order to wear a hair scarf, make sure your hair is down and completely brushed out. You can either tie the scarf around your head or slide it back over your hair. Then pull up the sides of your hair for an even fuller look.
When to Wear
Hair scarves can be worn everyday, but are most popular for weddings and other formal events.
When Not to Wear
Hair scarves should not be worn to any formal events. Plus, hair scarves are not meant for individuals with short hair.
Hair Bow Scarf
Hair bow scarves are types of hair accessories primarily made for women. They have a specific design where the scarf is formed into a bow shape and attached to a clip or barrette.
How to Wear
In order to wear a hair bow, make sure your hair is down and completely brushed out. Then place the bow on your head, allowing it to rest just above one eyebrow.
When to Wear
Hair bow scarves can be worn for both formal and casual events. They are most commonly worn for weddings, but they can also be worn to the office or even out shopping.
When Not to Wear
Hair bow scarves are not meant for individuals with short hair or men.
Fan Scarf
Fan scarves are types of hair accessories made for both men and women. These are mainly worn by sports fans to show their support for a certain team. A sports team’s logo is usually printed on a fan scarf, which is generally of rectangular form.
You can remove the printed logo if you know the process of getting under-armour logo off.
How to Wear
Fan scarves can be worn in multiple ways. The most common and popular way is to simply tie it around your head like a regular scarf. However, fan scarves can also be tied around the wrist or arm as well.
When to Wear
Fan scarves are most commonly worn at sporting events.
When Not to Wear
Don’t wear them in formal settings.
Evening Scarf
Evening scarves are types of hair accessories worn for formal occasions, such as nights out or balls. Evening scarves usually come in silk or satin material and are generally long, thin, and either oblong or triangular in design.
How to Wear
An evening scarf should be wrapped around the head once, allowing a large amount of fabric to fall on the opposite side. Then, you can either tie the ends together or allow them to hang loose.
When to Wear
Evening scarves are most commonly worn for nights out and balls. They can also be worn as a fashion accessory during sunny days as well, but only when paired with a cardigan or blazer.
When Not to Wear
These tend to be a bit gorgeous. So, don’t wear them in casual settings.
Shawl Scarf
Shawl scarves have a long, rectangular shape. These types of scarves can be both thin and thick in material and made from a variety of fabrics.
How to Wear
To wear a shawl scarf, simply drape it over your shoulders. Then either tuck the ends into your blazer or hold them together in front.
When to Wear
Shawl scarves are great for days when the weather is cold, windy, and rainy. They can be worn over cardigans, blazers, jackets, etc.
When Not to Wear
Don’t wear them on summer days (duh!!!).
Pashmina
Pashmina scarves have a long, rectangular shape. These types of scarves are generally made from cashmere and silk materials and come in a variety of colors. Pashminas are usually thin with either fringes or tassels at the end.
How to Wear
To wear a pashmina scarf, simply drape it over your shoulders like you would an evening scarf or shawl scarf. Then either tuck the ends into your blazer or hold them together in front.
When to Wear
Pashmina scarves can be worn for formal events as well as casual, such as shopping and at the beach. They can also be worn for days which are windy, rainy, and cold.
When Not to Wear
If you want to wear a lot of color, don’t bring out a pashmina scarf. Because the pashmina is best worn with basic clothing, avoid wearing one with a bright outfit.
Turban Scarf
Turban scarves have a circular shape and are round-shaped. You can pull off different types of fashion attires with this scarf.
These types of scarves usually come in muslin, cotton, or satin material and can be tied in various ways. Some examples of tying include the turban style, which is most common, the headband style, and the scarf knot.
How to Wear
To wear a turban scarf, you must first tie it into a turban style. Then you will need to slide your hand through your hair until it reaches your forehead. Finally, pull out both ends to tighten the turban design around your head.
When to Wear
Turban scarves can be worn for formal events as well as casual, such as shopping and at the beach. They can also be worn for days that are windy, rainy, and cold.
When Not to Wear
If you are bald, don’t wear the turbans. It is only for people who have hair to cover their heads with.
Wearing a turban scarf when it’s not cold also doesn’t make sense because you are letting your head get colder than it should be which can lead to health problems including headaches and nausea.
If it isn’t cold outside, just wear a regular hat or something that will keep your head warm but won’t restrict blood circulation in your scalp.
Circle Scarves
Circle scarves have a circular shape and are round-shaped. These types of scarves come in various types of fabric, such as wool, cotton, tweed, cashmere, etc. Moreover, you can find scarves made of banana fibers as well. Circle scarves can either be knitted or crocheted.
How to Wear
To wear a circle scarf, you can tie a knot to adjust its size, simply wrap it around your neck and then tie or pin it in place. You can also do the same thing by wrapping it around your head.
When to Wear
Circle scarfs can be worn for formal events as well as casual occasions.
When Not to Wear
If a circle scarf seems like a good idea to you, then by all means go for it! Just be aware of what types of clothing items will work best with your outfit. For more formal events, skip the circle scarves.
Silk Scarves
Silk scarves have a square shape. They are usually made of silk material and can be tied in different ways, such as tying the knot around the neck, around the head, over one shoulder, over both shoulders or simply wrapping it around your wrist for an added accessory.
How to Wear
If you’re feeling confident and elegant tie it around your neck with just one side hanging out. If you’re looking for something simple then just wrap it around your wrist. Want something more causal? Toss it over your head like a hairband! The possibilities are endless!
When to Wear
There are no rules as to when to wear a silk scarf! You can wear it during fall, spring, summer or winter. You can also wear it for formal events as well as casual occasions. It all depends on how you want to style it!
When Not to Wear
There aren’t any certain types of occasions that would not be appropriate for a silk scarf. Just don’t wear one if you’re going to the beach or somewhere where sand gets everywhere because that’s just annoying and tacky.
Also, try not to double up with too many accessories, or else you will look like Lady Gaga at an awards show. Make sure that your outfit is complete before throwing on more accessories than necessary.
Hippie Headband
Hippie headbands have a triangle shape. Headbands are a band that goes over your forehead and ties in the back. It can be made out of thick or thin fabric, depending on what you’re looking for.
How to Wear
There are two types of ways you can wear hippie headbands: casual and dressy. Casual would be if you just tied it around your hair in a base of your neck. Dressy would be if you tie it around your forehead or underneath your chin- either way is fine!
When to Wear
Headbands are for any types of occasions. You can wear them on an everyday basis (casual) or pair with some formal clothing (dressy). Just go out there and play around with your fashion sense!
When Not to Wear
It’s really hard to make a mistake while wearing a hippie headband, so feel free to use this accessory as often as you like! However, if you’re going for a dressy look don’t try layering up too many accessories because that screams “over-accessorizing.”
Kimono Scarf
Kimono scarves are rectangular types of scarves. They are known for their soft silk material and also the fact that they can be worn in various types of ways.
How to Wear
There are different ways to wear a kimono scarf! You can wear them around your neck, over your shoulders, wrapped around an object (coat rack, chair), or simply tied up with something else. It completely depends on what you feel like doing that day!
When to Wear
Kimono scarves are great for any seasons/occasions! They go great with formal outfits as well as causal attire. They are perfect for winter because of their material and how warm it is! You can also use this during the summer to block out the sun’s harmful rays. Go out there an try something new!
When Not to Wear
There isn’t anything that would be inappropriate for wearing a kimono scarf. Just don’t wear one with shorts or anything else that will make you look like you’re trying too hard. Make sure your outfit goes together before adding any other accessory because you’ll just come off tacky.
Faux Fur Scarves
Faux Fur is a type of material that looks like the fur from an animal, but it isn’t! Faux fur has been around for a long time and has changed a lot since the 70’s. Due to its popularity, there are lots of different ways to wear faux fur scarves.
How to Wear
There are many different types of ways you can wear your own faux fur scarf! Some people will just throw them over their shoulders while others may tie them around their necks. There is no such thing as rules when it comes to fashion so just do whatever makes you happy!
When to Wear
Faux fur scarves can be worn in a variety of settings, whether to a casual lunch with friends or to work. They add an elegant touch to any outfit and keep you warm from the winter wind.
When Not to Wear
If you want a more formal look, faux fur scarves should not be worn. They’re perfect for everyday wear, but they take away from the eveningwear elegance. If you’re going to an event or out with your friends, keep your fake fur scarf for another day!
Afghan Scarf
An Afghan scarf is a type of fashion item that you can use to dress up any outfit! It’s like an obi-sash because it helps hold your shirt or whatever kind of top you’re wearing together. An Afghan scarf is typically very long and wide, but there are other types such as the infinity loop scarf which will be used for this fashion trend.
How to Wear
There are many different types of ways to wear an Afghan scarf! The best thing about this accessory is that you can just tie it around your waist or neck depending on what kind of look you’re trying to achieve.
When to Wear
These scarves should be worn for casual events because they don’t really match up with dressier outfits.
When Not to Wear
These doesn’t seem to go well in formal settings.
Neck Scarf
The neck scarf is a lightweight fabric that can be worn loose or tied in several different ways. It is very versatile and adds an element of warmth to any outfit without adding extra bulk.
How to Wear
Wrap them around your neck twice, then leave the front end hanging longer than the back, cross it over behind your neck, then tie it to hold it in place.
When to Wear
You can wear them with casual outfits for an extra touch of warmth or classiness.
When Not to Wear
To tone down the beauty, wear them with a suit. Avoid wearing them when you need to keep yourself warm, such as while playing sports or sledding.
Foldable Scarf
Foldable scarves are simple to transport since they may be folded into a small bag or handbag without any problem. However, when folding your scarf, be cautious because the cloth might crease and deform.
These scarves are frequently offered in bright colors and interesting designs, plus some of them come with zippered pockets.
Some designs will offer you heating capability.
How to Wear
Wrap them around your neck any way you want.
When to Wear
These offer functional uses. You can wear them anywhere you like.
When Not to Wear
Given that they come in a wide range of colors and designs, you may select whatever color or pattern suits the occasion best.
Cocktail Scarf
The cocktail scarf is a long, narrow piece of silk that can be worn draped across or tied into a bow. These scarves are frequently found in plain colors and clean designs, but they come with a slight shimmer to complete the elegance.
How to Wear
Wrap it around your neck, fold the ends inward, cross them in front of your chest, and tie together at the side. Or for a more casual look, tie the ends loosely around your neck.
When to Wear
Cocktail scarves look fantastic with formal attire or business attire. Each outfit has a gleaming, luxurious appearance thanks to the glittering design.
When Not to Wear
Wear them with a more casual clothing to tone down the opulence. If you want an even simpler look, consider wearing a normal scarf rather than a cocktail one.
Tips for Buying Scarves
Here are some tips for buying scarves:
Tips 1: Buy Different Kinds!
Make sure to buy at least three different kinds of scarves so you have options on how to wear them.
Tips 2: Match the Scarf to Your Outfit!
Make sure you have a balance between prints and solid colors. You can also match scarves to your shoes or bag!
Tips 3: Accessorize with Scarves
You can accessorize with your scarves by tying them around different parts of your body like around your neck, your head, or around your waist.
Tips 4: Know What You’re Buying
Scarves can range from ten to hundreds of dollars depending on the material and how good the quality is. Make sure you know what you’re buying!
Tips 5: Look for Deals!
Once you know what kinds of scarves you’re looking for, look around for deals online and in different stores. You can sometimes find great deals like buy one get one free or 50% off!
Tips 6: Don’t Wear Too Many at Once
When buying multiple scarves make sure to not wear too many at once or it will be way too much and look tacky. Stick with two or three!
Tips 7: Avoid Wearing Them to Work
Scarves aren’t professional enough for work, so avoid wearing them unless you’re going out on a date later that night!
Tips 8: Make Sure the Material is Right for You
Make sure whatever scarf you buy will go with what kind of weather it’s like outside! I prefer silk scarves in the winter, and cotton or linen during summer.
Different Ways to Style a Scarf
With the cold weather coming in, it’s time to start thinking about scarves and ways to style them! Scarves are a classic fall and winter accessory that can add warmth while still looking stylish! Below we will go through a few different ways you can style your scarf.
The Basic Knot
The basic knot is a great way to hide your hair while also keeping warm throughout the day. It works well with any length scarf or shawl!
Simply fold the scarf in half so there is an overlap of the fabric by at least two inches, then wrap it around your head once, pulling one side of the folded fabric over each shoulder so they cross behind you.
Take one side of the fabric and pull it over the top of the opposite shoulder. Then cross the two loose ends of the fabric in front of you, bring them underneath your chin, and tie them behind your neck.
Tying the Windmill Scarf
The windmill scarf is probably one of our favorite ways to style a scarf! This look is so easy to achieve and looks great no matter what color your hair is or if you’re wearing any jewelry with it.
Start by folding your long scarf into half so that there is an overlap of about 8-10 inches at either end. Take one side and pull it all the way up until its just below your eye line (make sure not to cover your eyes) then wrap it around the back of your head.
You can then take the loose ends of fabric and pull them over your crossed scarf before clasping it in place.
The Knot Front Scarf
This look is simple but stylish, especially if you have a great big statement necklace to pair with it! Simply tie your long scarf around your neck once, leaving half of each end hanging off.
Pull one side up and loop it behind the front knot before tying again for a neater finish. Take the remaining length of fabric and pull it through the loop that was created by making a second knot, then tie in an overhand knot at your neckline.
Twisted Topknots
A twisted topknot works well when you have short hair or just don’t want to wear head-covering scarves. Simply twist your scarf into a rope shape, then tie it in place with an overhand knot at the crown of your hair.
You can then leave it loose or pull any stray pieces through the knot and pin them under for a messier style!
The Infinity Scarf Knot
This look is super stylish and works well for those who want to wear their long scarves around their necks all day without tying them.
To achieve this look, simply wrap your infinity scarf around your neck once, leaving about an inch gap between each loop as you go (the gap should be equal on either side).
Once all loops are complete, tie both ends together as you would with a scarf to create a giant bow at the front!
Floral Headbands
If you want an easy way to style your scarf, try making a headband with it! Using either double-sided or regular tape, stick one end of the fabric to your forehead and continue wrapping until you reach your desired tightness and fit.
Once in place, use pins (or more tape) to secure any loose ends for a look that will keep your ears warm while still looking stylish throughout the day!
The Best Way to Store Your Scarves
Rule 1!
The most important thing is to choose the right kind of scarf storage bag.
Some bags are better for storing longer scarves, some work better for storing shorter scarves or children’s’ scarves, and some work best with only certain fabrics.
For example, heavy velvet can easily be crushed in a long thin bag meant for children’s’ scarves.
An organza bag is generally too lightweight for heavy winter scarves that need to be supported in a large bag with hanging loops.
For the best results, choose a scarf organizer that matches the weight of your scarves and use one size bigger than you think you need.
Rule 2!
Scarves should be stored away from light, heat, and humidity.
If kept in dark drawers at room temperature they will last longer! If you live in a humid climate, store your scarves in the refrigerator between uses to avoid mold.
And never forget rule 3!
Rule 3!
Scarves are not towels!
They should never be stored hanging in a hot steamy bathroom or draped over radiators.
Be sure to use the proper hangers for your scarves and store them on sturdy racks designed specifically for scarves.
If you have just purchased new scarf storage tubes but they seem stiff, use them for a while before you load them up with heavy winter scarves.
How to Care for Your Scarf Collection
These are the best ways for caring for scarfs, to retain their color, and prevent them from snagging.
Don’t Tear or Fray the Edges
The edges of your scarf will begin to fray after some time, especially if you are wearing it frequently. However, you can prevent the fraying from getting worse by not pulling at the threads that begin to stick out.
Don’t Bunch Your Scarf
Piling one scarf on top of another is not a good way of storing them, because the friction between two or more scarfs may cause them to tangle up with each other. Instead, roll them carefully together.
Don’t Wear Hats or Hairclips on Top of Scarves
It may be convenient to place hats and hairclips on top of your scarfs but this can damage their fabric. Placing anything hot over the scarf is also bad for its quality as it can alter the scarf’s color.
Take Them off in Rain or While in Transport
You can wear your scarves even if it is raining, but take them off when you are in transport to avoid accidentally stepping on them (and leaving dirty footprints).
Don’t Place Your Scarf Near a Heater or Open Flame
Both heaters and open flames can singe the tips of your scarfs, so keep these items away. Don’t leave them hanging around radiators either.
Do Clean Them When Necessary
However, do clean them when they get dirty because not only will they lose their luster but also molds can grow on dirty fabrics. You can hand-wash silk scarves for convenience purposes. If you have dry-cleaning services available in your area, ask them to clean the more delicate types of scarfs.
Be Careful with Your Scarf while Doing Household Chores
Doing certain household chores can damage some types of scarves, for example, do not put your silk scarf into a washing machine because it will get tangled up.
If you are wearing a cashmere scarf during winter, be careful not to touch hot water or stoves with your scarf on because this may cause its color to fade.
Avoid Strong Chemicals
You should also avoid using bleach or detergents with heavy chemicals when washing your scarfs! Bleach is actually bad for most fabrics and even worse if it’s mixed with other chemicals.
Many brands of fabric shampoos have a different formula for lighter and darker scarves so if you have a scarf in multiple colors, be sure to read the label before washing.
Don’t Leave Your Scarf in Direct Sunlight
Leaving your scarf lying on the ground beneath the sun will cause it to fade more quickly. Instead, hang them up when they’re not being worn.
Accessories That Go with a Scarf
These are the accessories that you can wear with a scarf.
- A hat
- Jewelry
- A belt
- A purse
- A sweatshirt or a coat
- A T-shirt
- A dress
Are Cashmere Scarves Really That Much Better than Other Types of Scarves?
People like cashmere for variuos reasons. It is a very versatile material and can be used to create a wide range of stylish, trendy, and timeless accessories. Cashmere is also known to be a luxury item and can be a great way to add a touch of sophistication and class to any outfit. Thus, it can be deemed better than many other scarf materials.
Final Words
That’s all, folks! The best thing about scarves is how fashionable they can be. Hope you have picked your favorite among the different types of scarves that we have listed today. And remember, you don’t have to buy your favorite type of scarf. You can always weave or knit one for yourself if you’re equipped with the right tools.
