10 Easy Ways to Tie Scarves

Posted on January 25, 2015 |

Scarves are one of my favorite layering pieces because they are fashionable and functional and can be worn year round by adjusting the fabric weight. I have seen several blogs and videos on how to tie scarves; many have great ideas but some get a little carried away. Do we really need to know how to tie scarves 50 ways? And if the techniques are so complex that putting on one feels like a game of twister, likely we are not actually going to do it.

So I have compiled my favorite 10 easy and realistic ways to tie scarves. Please note these 10 styles are being shown using long, wide rectangular scarves. You can use short rectangular scarves or thin rectangular scarves with these techniques as well. Or you can also copy some of these using smaller square scarves to get a more tailored look.

1. Classic loop

Fold scarf in half, wrap behind neck, slip both loose ends through the loop and tighten. Tip:This is a great technique for protecting your neck against the cold and tucking into a winter jacket.

2. Draped wrap

Hold scarf behind the neck off center. Wrap the longer side around your neck once then let both sides hang in front of you. Adjust so the draped hanging sides are even. Tip: Pull down loop for a more draped effect or wear it tight around the neck.

3. Neck wrap

Double wrap around the neck. Leave ends loose in front or tie them and twist off to the side towards your shoulder.

4. Bow tie

Double wrap scarf around neck, tie ends into a bow. Tip: Can be worn centered or twist bow to the side above the shoulder.

5. Twist

Start with a draped wrap. Then take each end and wrap each individually around that same side of the draped material. Tip: Can be twisted around as many or as few times for desired effect.

6. DIY infinity

Tie ends together in a small knot, leaving the scarf as one complete circle. Double wrap around neck, adjust so knot is in back and more covered.

7. Kerchief

Fold scarf in half then fold opposite corners to meet each other, making a triangle. Turn it upside down to make an upside down triangle. Take the two widest points, wrap around neck twice and knot in the front. Tuck knot under the scarf in the front to hide it.

8. Cowl neck

Wrap the scarf around over your shoulders. Grab the top two corners, crisscross them in front of you and tie behind your head. Adjust fullness of the drape in the front.

9. Wrap

Drape scarf over shoulders, pull down to cover arms. Tip: Wear draped like this or wrap ends around your back and tie. Pull the top down your back to create more of a poncho or cape effect.

10. Vest

Tie the top corner of each end of the scarf together. Open up to show two armholes and put one arm in each side like a vest. Tip: using a shorter scarf will create a shrug, a longer scarf will create a waterfall vest.

* bonus trendy technique: the twist- put 2 different scarves together and drape wrap to create fun patterns and color combos!

All of these techniques, PLUS 5 ways to wear infinity scarves, can be seen on this brand new episode of my style segment, Cheap Chic, on Comcast On Demand:

Which one is your favorite?? Give all of these looks a try and have fun with it! Remember playing with color, pattern and material makeup will give you all types of unique looks. Stay warm and look chic in your favorite scarf!