When the mornings get crisp, a scarf is the hardest-working accessory you can own. It adds warmth, color and texture, and it can make the same coat look different every day of the week. The trick is knowing a handful of ways to wear it so it doesn’t end up as the same loose loop every time.

Here are seven easy scarf styles to try this fall, along with tips on choosing a scarf that works for your wardrobe.

Start with the right scarf

Before tying anything, think about what you have and what you need.

  • Long, lightweight scarves in cotton, modal or thin wool are the most versatile for early fall. They drape well and work with most knots.
  • Chunky knits are warmer and best for colder days. They look great with simple coats but are bulky for intricate knots.
  • Blanket scarves, the large square or rectangular kind, double as a wrap and pair well with jackets that have a simple neckline.
  • Small silk or satin squares add polish to a blouse or a trench coat without much warmth.

If you’re only buying one, a long scarf in a neutral or a soft fall color like rust, camel, olive or burgundy will go with almost everything.

1. The Parisian knot

Fold the scarf in half lengthwise to make a loop. Drape it around the back of your neck, then pull the loose ends through the loop and tighten gently. It’s warm, neat and stays put, which makes it a great everyday option with a coat or blazer.

2. The simple drape

Hang the scarf around your neck so both ends fall evenly down the front. That’s it. This look works best with lightweight scarves and an open jacket, and it adds a long vertical line that can make an outfit feel more polished.

3. The once-around

Wrap the scarf around your neck once and let both ends hang in front, or toss one end over the shoulder. It’s a little more structured than the simple drape and keeps your neck warm without looking bulky.

4. The infinity-style loop

Tie the two ends of a long scarf together in a small knot, then twist the loop into a figure eight and place both loops over your head. Hide the knot in the folds. You get the look of an infinity scarf from a regular one, and it’s especially good with chunky knits.

5. The blanket wrap

Fold a large square scarf into a triangle and drape it over your shoulders with the point at the back, then wrap the ends loosely around your neck and let them fall in front. Add a belt over the scarf at the waist for a sharper silhouette, or leave it loose for a cozy weekend look.

6. The neat bow or neckerchief

With a small silk square, fold it into a narrow band, wrap it around your neck and tie a small knot or bow slightly off-center. It’s an easy way to add a pop of color to a plain sweater or button-down without adding bulk.

7. The bag accent

Not every scarf has to go around your neck. Tie a silk scarf around the handle of a handbag, use a long one as a belt through jean loops, or wrap a small one around a ponytail. It’s a smart way to repeat a color from your outfit and get more use out of scarves you love.

Color and pattern tips

  • Match one color. Pull one shade from your coat, shoes or bag into the scarf so the outfit looks intentional.
  • Let the scarf be the statement. With a neutral coat and simple outfit, a bold plaid or bright color carries the look.
  • Mix textures. A soft knit against a smooth leather or wool coat adds interest even in neutral colors.
  • Mind your neckline. Bulky knots can crowd a high collar; a simple drape usually works better with turtlenecks and hoods.

Keeping scarves looking good

Check the care label before washing, since many wool and silk scarves need a gentle hand wash or delicate cycle. Lay knit scarves flat to dry so they keep their shape, and store them folded rather than hanging to avoid stretching. A quick pass with a fabric shaver can remove pills from well-loved knits.

Wrap-up

A scarf is one of the easiest ways to refresh your fall wardrobe without buying a whole new outfit. Learn two or three of these ties, choose a color that works with your coat, and you’ll have a new look ready every time you head out the door.

Image: Image via Rawpixel, CC0 1.0