How to Tie a Scarf

By eHow Fashion, Style & Personal Care Editor

Tie a Scarf

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A beautiful silk scarf can add glamor and chic sophistication to a simple shift dress, a classic crewneck sweater or your favorite blouse. A chunky wool or cashmere scarf can add a touch of warmth on a cold day and also dress up your look. Whichever scarf you choose, remember that there are many ways to tie a scarf. Play around and find the look that best suits your style.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Scarf
Mirror

Step1

Fold a square scarf diagonally into a triangle. Then grasp the broad and middle point, folding repeatedly until the scarf forms a 2-inch band. Drape around your neck and tie a knot. Wear the knot in front to flatter an open-collar blouse, and to the side to add sass to a boatneck top.

Step2

Create the look of an ascot by spreading a square scarf upside down over a flat surface. Pull the fabric up from the center of the scarf, tie a small knot, then flip the ends so that the knot is underneath. Tie the opposite ends around the back of your neck, and let the scarf spill over from the base of your throat.

Step3

Make a shawl out of a very large square by first folding it into a triangle. Drape the scarf over one shoulder so that the point extends toward your elbow and the ends hang on either side of your torso. Tie the ends at the opposite hip, or belt the scarf at your waist.

Step4

Go for a quick and easy look. Turn a square scarf into a triangle, then wrap the scarf around the back of your neck so that the tip points down. Tie the ends into a knot and adjust to complement your neckline.

Tips & Warnings

Decorate a solid scarf with a pin or brooch. Match any metals or gems to those on your jewelry or belt.
Hand wash or dry-clean your scarves regularly depending on frequency of wear. The oils in your skin and other dirt can render vibrant colors flat and lifeless.
Iron your scarf on a low setting when you notice that the ends are starting to curl.
Be careful when using pins, brooches or a belt, as pulling or tugging on fragile material may leave permanent holes or tears.

Comments

Sue-Z said

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on 12/19/2007 Thanks for the ideas - I grew up in the days when all girls bought small silky square scarves, folded them in a triangle, knotted around the neck, then had the knot/ends to one side or in front depending on mood. I love scarves - don't know how to use them! (I've worn the Audry Hepburn style many times - good for keeping hair from flying/tangling in a convertible or on an ATV)

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Men have ties and can make strong statements with them. To add a feminine touch to your interview clothing you can use a good-quality, printed silk scarf. The Newsreader look (jacket, top, minimal jewelery, unfussy hair) for an interview is appropriate and strong, but can be a little sterile.

Fold a large (34 inch or bigger) scarf into a triangle and then roll it down into a 2 inch sausage. You can iron it at this point if you want a very crisp look. Take off your jacket and place the scarf around your neck like a collar, with the ends dangling at your stomach. Put your jacket back on and adjust the scarf so you have a bead of color running inside the jacket. No knot necessary - you can tuck the scarf into your waistband or pin it to your top to keep it in place. Feminine, professional, powerful. Try it.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 This is for oblong scarves...
Holding one point firmly between your fingers, with your hand extended away from your body, spin the scarf in a tight spiral (it will begin to twist upon itself close to your hand and work its way down as you circle your hand). When the scarf has wound upon itself the full length of the scarf, quickly reach down and grab the lower point. (Twist a little more tightly if desired at this point.) Bring the two points together and let the twisted scarf twist upon itself again as you fold it in half. Take the looped end of the now double-twisted scarf in one hand and bring the other end around behind your neck. Feed the free ends through the looped end and pull snugly. Wear the joined section of the scarf in the front of your neck or to the side. Fluff the now-loose ends as they proceed from the loop-closure.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 For small square scarves:

Fold the scarf into a triangle. Grasp the points at the long end and tie them into a small knot. Drape the scarf on your wrist with the knot on top. With the other hand, grasp the top corner of the point opposite the knot and hold it. With the hand wearing the scarf, grasp the bottom of the two points opposite the knot and pull it back through the opening. As you pull the ends in opposite directions, a "rose" will form at the center around the first small knot. Tie the long ends behind your neck so that the "rose" is in the front (loosely or snugly, to suit your style).

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Fold a large square scarf in half so it forms a triangle. Grasp the two pointiest ends and lay the scarf on top of your head. Bring the points down under your chin and twist twice, then bring them behind your neck and tie twice so the knot lays flat.

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