Buying guide for best scarves
Scarves are among the unsung heroes of any wardrobe. They can spruce up a basic outfit, add intrigue to a good outfit, and above all, keep you warm. Depending on its thickness and material, a scarf may be suitable for wear all year long. If you have one already, stocking up on a few more won’t take up much closet space.
Before you start adding scarves to your cart, there are some key factors to consider. The occasion and season you have in mind for your new scarf matters, as that will inform the type of fabric and style you’ll want to get. Also think about the type of scarf you prefer (there are many to choose from), the scarf length that would best suit your needs, and the colors and patterns you’re interested in.
The history of the scarf
As with many fashion staples, the scarf dates back to Ancient Egypt. Queen Nefertiti was known to wear a scarf underneath a jeweled headdress. In China, military men would wear scarves to show their rank. And in Ancient Rome, scarves were a matter of practicality and used to dry sweat while working.
Scarves didn’t start to become a common fashion accessory in the west until the nineteenth century or so. The luxury brand Hermes was one of the first to sell scarves, selling ones made from Chinese silk in the early 1900s. Since then, scarves have been sold as luxury items, cold-weather accessories, and fashion statements.
“Scarf” is a broad, all-encompassing term. There are some specific styles worth mentioning.
What are the types of scarves?
Bandana
Also known as kerchiefs, bandanas are rectangular or square pieces of fabric that can be tied around the head as a hair covering or worn around the neck. The typical bandana has a paisley pattern, although you can certainly find others. While the classic bandana colors are red and blue, they’re readily available in most colors of the rainbow.
Infinity scarf
Infinity scarves are a cold-weather favorite. These scarves are crafted as a single large loop that can wrap around the neck multiple times. With infinity scarves, you don’t have to worry about the best way to tie the scarf. They can also wrap around the shoulders for a shawl-inspired look.
Cowl scarf
A cowl scarf isn’t too different from an infinity scarf. The primary difference is that the scarf loop is a smaller one. Cowl scarves have a dramatic drape at the front and don’t need to be wrapped around the neck multiple times. If you like fuss-free accessories, a cowl scarf is a great option.
Knit scarf
Knit scarves are popular for cold weather. Often sporting a chunky, thick texture and raised ribbing, knit scarves may be made of wool or a blend of wool, cotton, or viscose. Knit scarves can come in cowl and infinity patterns, but many of them are long scarves meant to be wrapped around the neck multiple times.
Stole
A stole is a cross between a scarf and a shawl. A stole is typically long and rectangular and is often wrapped around the shoulders, hung around the neck, or worn as a scarf. Stoles are versatile. You can take one with you on a cool fall evening as an extra cover-up for an otherwise-light outfit.
Triangle scarf
As the name suggests, a triangle scarf is shaped like a triangle. These scarves are solid lightweight options for the fall and winter months. Though there are multiple ways to wear a triangle scarf, one of the most common is a loose kerchief style with the triangle design hanging down the front.
STAFF TIP
Experiment with how you tie your scarf. Try a bow-style, a sliding knot, or a basic drape style to start.
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What are the most common scarf fabrics?
Wool
Wool scarves are among the warmest scarves available. A quality wool scarf is soft, and pure wool scarves are hypoallergenic. Often high in quality, these are premier winter scarves. They are also among the most expensive scarves. If you want a lower-cost wool scarf, look for one blended with cotton or viscose.
Silk
When you think of luxury scarves, silk may be one of the first fabrics that comes to mind. Silk scarves are sourced from silk which, in its natural form, is harvested from silkworms. Silk scarves are durable and wrinkle-resistant. Often, you can find them with beautiful designs and patterns. Like wool, silk scarves are hypoallergenic. Silk is among the priciest scarf fabrics.
Cotton
Cotton is another natural fabric, and it’s one of the most common fabrics. Cotton scarves are breathable and durable. Unlike wool and silk, they also wash pretty easily. There is no need to use special detergents, the delicate cycle, or dry cleaning—although we recommend hang-drying most cotton scarves.
Cashmere
Another luxurious fabric option for scarves is cashmere. The purest cashmere is sourced from goats in places like Mongolia, China, and Central Asia. Cashmere scarves are incredibly plush, soft to the touch, and naturally temperature-regulated. Because of how exclusive cashmere fabric is, it’s another scarf you can expect to pay a lot for.
Synthetic
Synthetic scarves are made from any combination of synthetic fabrics. Some common synthetic fabrics for scarves are viscose (also known as rayon), nylon, and polyester. Synthetic fabrics are usually cheaper than natural fabrics, but some of these scarves won’t stand the test of time as far as quality goes.
If you plan to wear a scarf as a head covering, pay extra attention to the fabric. Certain fabrics, such as cotton, are incredibly absorbent and may sap the moisture from your hair. Silk scarves are probably the best choice for headscarves.
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What other important scarf features should I consider?
Color
You can buy scarves in any color imaginable. The colors you choose depend on the season you plan to wear the scarves along with the current makeup of your closet.
When in doubt, go for a neutral scarf color. This is especially true if you plan to invest in a quality scarf meant to last for years. Shades of black and gray are always timeless, especially in winter. A white scarf would work nicely on a snowy day, either complemented by a light-colored coat or contrasted with a dark one.
For the fall, consider muted earth tones. Think of moss greens, rusty oranges, and mustard yellows, which add soothing color to your look without being overpowering. That said, if you love certain colors, you may decide to buy scarves that reflect your preferences.
Length
Scarf lengths vary, but you can expect them to stretch between 45 and 80 inches long. Shorter scarves are a fine choice for shorter folks, while a scarf of 70 inches or longer is great for someone who is taller than average—or someone looking to make a dramatic statement. Keep in mind that an ultra-long scarf is more likely to drag on the ground.
DID YOU KNOW?
A small scarf can serve as a fun hair accessory. You can tie it like a headband, use it to hold up a ponytail, or weave it into a braid.
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How much do scarves cost?
Inexpensive
With all the different kinds of scarves you can buy, it’s no surprise that they vary in price. A lot. On the cheaper end, expect to pay between $5 and $15 for a scarf. Scarves in this lower range are usually smaller in size (perhaps 40 inches or less) and primarily made from synthetic materials. Those that aren’t made from synthetic materials will be very small, possibly handkerchief-sized.
Mid-range
At the $15 to $35 range, your options will open to include long scarves, chunky knit scarves, cotton scarves, and wool scarves. There are more silk scarves in this range as well, both in solid colors and patterns. These scarves tend to be smaller than the typical 55-inch winter scarf.
Expensive
At $35+, you can invest in a high-quality scarf. Cashmere and quality wool are viable options, particularly if you want to keep a scarf to wear again and again over the years.
Tips
- Feel matters. Since your scarf will undoubtedly touch your skin, choose one that feels pleasant to the touch.
- Check the care label. Some fabrics can be machine-washed. Others can only be dry-cleaned. Look at the label to determine the best way to care for a scarf. If you can’t find instructions on the label, check the brand’s website.
- Pick one solid and one patterned. If you plan to get multiple scarves, opt for one solid, neutral-colored scarf and one brightly colored statement piece.
FAQ
Q. Are scarves feminine?
A. Not really. Scarves are gender neutral, though to some, they have a reputation for being feminine. It’s all in the style and color of the scarf you choose and how you wear it. Any scarf draped around the neck, wrapped and knotted around the neck, or wrapped twice around the neck is perfectly suited for a masculine look or a feminine look.
Q. Can I put my scarf in the dryer?
A. Regardless of the fabric, we generally recommend hang-drying scarves. Scarves made from wool and cashmere would absolutely shrink in the dryer. Even if a scarf isn't made from a shrink-prone material, drying it could reduce the fabric quality and cause piling.
Q. Does wearing a scarf damage your hair?
A. Generally speaking, not much. Scarves worn around the head won’t cause damage if the hair underneath is dry and well-moisturized. For neck scarves, certain materials can be rough on the hair at the nape of the neck. Those with afro-textured hair can be especially prone to breakage. Moisturizing well, wearing a hat over the entire head, or even wearing one’s hair up can combat any damage.
