10 ways to style a scarf
A scarf is one of the most versatile accessories in your wardrobe. A single silk scarf can change the look of an outfit depending on how you tie it. Classic around the neck, in your hair, at the waist, or as a detail on your bag. A silk scarf suits outfits in both summer and winter thanks to its temperature-regulating properties. Here, we have gathered 10 ways to style and tie a scarf.
Classic crew neck
This is one of our favorite knots and perhaps the most timeless way to wear a silk scarf. There are several methods for tying a scarf classically around the neck, but this is likely the most common. The result is relaxed and works just as well with a white shirt as it does with knitwear, a blazer, or a simple T-shirt.
- 1Fold the scarf diagonally into a triangle and place the triangle loosely on your chest, just at the base of your throat.
- 2Bring the ends behind your neck, cross them, and bring them to the front again.
- 3Tie a small knot at the back of the neck or at the front, preferably slightly to the side.
As a headscarf or bandana over the hair
A style we have seen a lot of during 2026 and which we expect to see even more of in the coming years. A tougher styling that gives a simple outfit a completely different look. Wear it with everything from a shirt and jeans to a dress or at the beach.
- 1Fold the scarf diagonally into a triangle and place it over your face, with the tip of the triangle pointing downwards.
- 2Tie the ends at the back of the head.
- 3We recommend attaching two to four hair clips to the scarf and hair to extend the hold. This works especially well if you have slippery hair.
Around the waist over a shirt
Let the scarf break up the classic silhouette by tying it around your waist over a shirt. Combine with loose-fitting trousers and a slightly oversized shirt. An easy way to create shape and add color or patterns to an otherwise minimalist outfit.
- 1Fold the shawl into a triangle and then tie the scarf slightly to the side.
In the hair
Wear the scarf as a headband with your hair down, in a low bun, or in a ponytail. A simple way to incorporate the scarf into your everyday wardrobe, even on days when you don't want to wear it around your neck.
- 1Fold the shawl into a triangle first.
- 2Fold the scarf lengthwise several times until you have a narrow band.
- 3Place it over your hair and tie at the back of the neck.
As a tie
A sophisticated tie knot that takes 30 seconds to tie. The styling works particularly well with a crisp shirt or other tailored garments.
- 1Fold the scarf into a narrow band and place it around your neck.
- 2Tie a simple knot at one end and thread the other end through from above.
As a belt
A scarf as a belt is an easy way to add color and pattern to a neutral base and a softer alternative to the classic leather belt.
- 1Fold the scarf into a triangle and then roll it into a narrow band.
- 2Thread the scarf through the belt loops of a pair of jeans or trousers and tie it in the front or slightly to the side.
With a classic knot around the neck
This knot is simple yet effective and is particularly suitable when you want to add a small detail to a T-shirt, tank top, or knitted sweater.
- 1Fold the scarf into a narrow band and place it around your neck.
- 2Tie a simple knot at one end.
- 3Then pass the other end through the knot from underneath.
- 4Adjust the knot by pulling on both ends while holding the knot.
Over the shoulders
Wearing a scarf over the shoulders works well over a shirt, dress, or thin knit sweater and allows more of the scarf's pattern to be seen.
- 1Fold the scarf into a triangle and place it over your shoulders.
- 2Bring the ends forward and let them hang freely.
- 3For better durability, you can tuck it into your shirt.
As top
A scarf can also be styled as a top. The size required depends on your clothing size. Feel free to use a necklace to get more fabric to work with. Wear it as is on warmer days or together with a blazer. For an edgier look, you can advantageously wear this scarf top over an oversized shirt.
- 1Fold the scarf diagonally and tie the tip to the necklace.
- 2Then bring the ends to your back and tie a double knot.
A unique top
Wear it as it is together with your favorite necklace
The knot on the bag
A scarf doesn't always have to be worn on the body. It’s an easy way to change the feel of a bag you already own. Add a pop of color to give your outfit more personality.
- 1Tie the scarf around the handle of a bag and let the ends hang loose.
- 2You can also braid it around the bag's handle.
A square scarf of approximately 70x70cm is the most versatile. For tops and longer shoulder drapes, a larger square is needed depending on your body shape.
100% silk is temperature-regulating and works all year round, both summer and winter.
Hand wash at a low temperature, lay flat to dry, and iron on a low setting from the reverse side, preferably with a thin towel between the iron and the scarf.
FAQ
Which scarf is best suited for these knots?+
A square scarf of about 70x70cm is very useful for many ties around the neck or in the hair. To tie tops and longer shoulder drapes, a larger square scarf is needed depending on your body shape.
Is it possible to wear a silk scarf all year round?+
Yes. Silk is temperature-regulating, which makes the same scarf work just as well on a warm summer day as on a chilly winter day.
Which knot is easiest for beginners?+
A classic neck wrap or a simple knot is the easiest place to start. From there, the tie knot and the simple bandana are natural next steps. In this article, we have gathered several of our favorite methods https://eloe.se/blogs/the-silk-edit/hur-knyter-man-en-sidensjal.
How do I care for my silk scarf?+
Hand wash in lukewarm water with a mild, enzyme-free detergent, avoid wringing it out, and lay it flat to dry. Iron on low heat, preferably with a towel between the iron and the scarf.
One scarf, many ways to wear it
The beauty of a scarf is that the same accessory can take on entirely different expressions depending on how it’s styled. Around the neck one day, in the hair the next, and tied around the waist when a simple shirt needs a little something extra. A silk scarf doesn't need to be saved for special occasions; on the contrary, we think it’s at its best when it becomes a natural part of your wardrobe and is worn again and again.
Fashion changes. Some details remain.
Discover ELOÈ's silk scarves and shawls in 100% Italian silk