Why a Scarf is the Ultimate Accessory
Plus a video tutorial for how I tie square silk scarves.
I’ve always worn big wool scarves in winter but 2023 was the year all-season scarves unconsciously crept into my wardrobe, and now I barely go a week without incorporating at least one scarf into an outfit. It’s the accessory that’s practical (warmth!), seasonal (big and cosy in winter, light in spring or summer), and instantly outfit-elevating.
I like to think of the scarf as the cherry on top of a look. It’s the finishing touch that brings in an element of personal style - one that stands out more so than, say, a necklace or a statement lip. Got an all-black outfit that feels a little flat? Add a colourful neckerchief or an oversized scarf to give it a lift. Feel like that jumper you’re always wearing needs something extra? A scarf can instantly transform it.
Here are the five scarves I’ve been flitting between this winter - and will continue adapting for each season to come.
The silk scarf
I bought this scarf at a Sunspel sample sale in London a few months ago. I’d been seeing other women (and men) wear silk scarves with such style for a while and loved the difference they made to an outfit, so it felt like a great purchase. I already had that mental style inspiration locked and loaded - a rule of thumb for me if I’m ever considering buying a new piece, especially if said piece is something I don’t wear often.
This particular scarf is made up of a brown, white and navy pattern, so it slots into my wardrobe really easily. I’ve been wearing it a lot with jumpers (this is a good trick if you’ve got a new wool jumper that’s a bit scratchy around the neck), cardis and under button up shirts to add a little something extra to the look.
I often get questions about how I tie this scarf, so I’ve created a short video tutorial below.