How to Wear Summer Scarves

Lightweight scarves work well for summer accessorizing.

Scarves aren't just for keeping you warm in winter. Summer scarves can add color, fun and sophistication to your warm-weather wardrobe. Of course, in the summertime you don't want to pile on layer upon layer of fuzzy woolen warmth. Wearing a summer scarf is all about choosing fabrics with the right weight, texture and color, and then wearing your scarf in ways that won't weigh your look down or cause you to swelter in the heat.

Instructions

Selecting Summer Scarves

1. Choose the right fabric weight. Perhaps it's a no-brainer, but heavy, thick, woolen scarves just won't look--or feel--right during summer months. Choose scarves in lightweight, breezy fabrics such as cotton, rayon or silk.

2. Select the right texture. Look for textures that convey coolness or crispness, such as satin, crinkle gauze, chiffon or lightweight jersey knit.

3. Consider color and pattern. Again, it's all about adding an air of coolness and breeziness to your outfit. Look for scarves in pastels and bright jewel tones. When it comes to pattern, florals, ombre--color shaded from light to dark-- stripes and paisleys are all appropriate for summer when their colors are not too dark and heavy.

4. 

   Bright colors, lightweight fabrics, fringe and delicate metallic thread make these ideal summer scarves.

   Look for scarves with embellishments such as fringe, embroidery, or metallic threads. Add an embellished scarf to a simple white T-shirt and jeans, and it instantly becomes a pulled-together outfit.

Add a Scarf

1. Try a scarf the old-fashioned way: around your neck. A long, skinny scarf can be worn around the neck many ways. You can tie it in a circle and wear it long and loose like a necklace. Or, tie a knot in each end and simply hang the scarf, untied, around your neck and shoulders. Try wrapping one loosely around your neck several times for a lush, layered look. For a more tailored look, tie a shorter scarf more snugly around your neck, undo a button or two at the top of your blouse, and let the scarf peek out from under the collar.

2. Wear a long, thin scarf in place of a belt. This is a stylish option when the summer's heat is so intense that you just can't bear the thought of adding layers around your neck. Tied in a bow or a knot, the scarf adds color and punch without adding warmth.

3. Try wearing a scarf on your head. Fold one into a long, thin piece and wear it as a a headband. Or, fold a square scarf into a triangle and tie it bandanna-style at the nape of your neck. If your job requires conservative business attire, tie an elegant silk scarf around a classic low ponytail to add just the right amount of color, softness. and femininity.

4. Tie your favorite scarf around the handle of your handbag.This simple trick works well with just about any style of handbag, whether you're dressing for work or the weekend. Something silky and sophisticated works especially well with a business suit, while just about anything goes with jeans, shorts or a sundress.

5. Wear a larger scarf as a wrap over a shoulder-baring dress when the summer nights or air conditioning give you a chill. A large rectangular scarf works well for this, as does a square one folded into a triangle.

6. 

   A scarf tied around a straw hat is a tried-and-true summer statement.

   Use a scarf as a hatband around a favorite straw hat. Whether you tuck the ends in or let them fly freely behind you, this is a classic summer look.

7. 

   A large scarf can double as a swimsuit cover-up.

   Tie a larger scarf around your waist and wear it as a sarong or swimsuit cover-up.

Tips & Warnings

• In general, no special knots are required. A simple square knot or "granny" knot will work fine. Simply tie ends over and under, then over and under again.

• Don't pull the knot too tightly, or it will be difficult to untie. Likewise, a knot that's too loose will come undone and you'll risk losing your scarf.