I spend a lot of time in closets. And one thing I find in many clients’ closets is a bunch of scarves. And I don’t mean wooly, winter scarves that are intended to keep you cozy in cold weather. I mean fun, colorful lightweight printed scarves that you wear around your neck to liven up your look.
So, when I find these, I ask my client a few questions. Here’s how the conversation usually goes:
Me: “Are you wearing these?”
My client: “No.”
Me: “Why not?”
My client: “I’m not sure.”
Me: “Do you like having a bunch of fabric around your neck?”
My client: “No.”
It feels like scarves used to be the go-to accessory to add interest to simple outfits. And that’s why you may have bought so many. But, if you don’t like a lot of fabric around your neck, then they’re probably sitting in a bin at the top of your closet, sad and unworn.
So, you have two choices. One is to donate the scarves to someone who can use them. The other is to figure out how to wear them. So, before the donation centers get piled up with a ton of colorful, printed pieces of fabric - check out 4 ways you can wear your scarf when you don’t like wearing it around your neck.
IN YOUR HAIR
This may feel like a throwback suggestion. Or it may be something that you do all the time. But if you ever wear a headband or a turban or even put your hair in a ponytail, I think it’s something worth trying. Because it gives you that big hit of color and print that you were looking for, but without bulk around your neck.
I found a quick article on different ways to wear a scarf in your hair – click here to check it out.
AS A BELT
This is another fun one that you may not have thought of. First, though, you need a scarf that’s long enough to go around your waist. If you have one – that’s great. And if you don’t – you can skip this tip.
Otherwise, it’s pretty simple. This works best with lightweight, oblong scarves, or ones that can be easily folded into that shape. Fold the scarf over a few times so that it’s that thin oblong shape. Then loop it through your belt loops and tie. I like it best when it’s tied off to the side – but feel free to try and see what you like! (And then click here to see why I think belts are a super useful and underrated accessory.)
ON YOUR BAG
This is another throwback idea. It’s one I often suggest when you have scarves, but you’re not a scarf person. And it’s another easy way to add a hit of print and color to your outfit, without it getting in the way of anything you’re doing. It couldn’t be easier – use an oblong scarf (or fold it to that shape) and make a simple knot through the outside handle of your bag. And even if you’re just wearing a sweater and jeans, you’ve instantly amped up your style. (If you’re a sweater and jeans person, read this to see how they can be the basis of a bunch of different fall/winter outfits).
OVER YOUR JACKET
If you think all of the above ideas are too tricky, this one is for you. Just wear your scarf outside the collar of your jacket. You get all the benefits of wearing a scarf around your neck, but without any claustrophobic feelings. Just remember to know where the scarf is when you take off your jacket.
Do you have any other questions about making your scarves more useful? Drop them in the comments. And if you love the scarves that my friend Kim is wearing, you’ll love my friend Ellen Brook. All these scarves are created from her original hand painted artwork. Check out her scarves and other apparel here and tell her I sent you!
P.S. If you’re feeling like 2022 is the year that you’ll finally be ready to evolve your style, just let me know. I can help you define your style, purge your closet, shop with intent and create outfits that you love. Click here to schedule a free Zoom consultation.