How to Tie a Scarf: 8 Easy Ways

A scarf changes an outfit in ten seconds. You just have to tie it with something other than a tight double loop at the neck. How you wear it depends mostly on its size: a small 50 cm square does not behave like a 90 cm square or a long rectangular scarf. Here are eight methods, from the simplest to the most worked.

The basic neck knot

Fold the square into a triangle, then roll it on itself to get a band. Wrap it round the neck, cross the two ends at the front and tie a simple, slightly off-centre knot. This is the express version, great with a white shirt or a plain jumper. Off-centring the knot keeps it from looking too prim.

The Parisian knot

The chic classic. Fold the square into a triangle, roll it into a thick band, pass it behind the neck. Bring both ends forward and tie loosely, then tuck each end under the loop. The result is dense and structured, perfect over a winter coat. A 70 to 90 cm silk square works better than a small format here.

As an ascot (open collar)

For dressing up a shirt or a light jacket. Rolled band round the neck, one end longer than the other, then tie loose and let the points fall under the open collar. It replaces a tie without the stiffness. Lovely in spring with a trench.

The bandana knot

Fold the square into a triangle, lay the point on the front of the chest, bring the two corners behind the neck, cross and bring them forward to tie under the triangle. A clear retro effect, nice over a plain vest top in summer. A 65 to 80 cm square gives the right coverage.

As a hair band

Roll the scarf into a thin band, lay it over the top of the head and tie under the hair or to the side. A small square or a narrow rectangular scarf suits this best. On a ponytail, wrap the base of the tie instead and make a small knot: it replaces the visible elastic.

On a bag handle

The method that needs zero technique and freshens up a dated bag. Fold into a thin band, tie a loose knot round the handle, let the ends hang or tuck them in. A light silk scarf drapes better than a thick one, which weighs the handle down.

As a belt

On high-waisted jeans or a shirt dress, a long rectangular scarf threaded through the loops and tied to the side replaces a classic belt. Save colourful prints for this detail: on a neutral outfit, it becomes the thing that carries the colour.

The bow at the neck

More creative. Rolled band, form a first loop then a second as for a shoelace, tighten at the centre and adjust the wings. It takes a little practice but gives a clean focal point on a monochrome outfit.

Choosing the right size

Fabric matters as much as size. Silk slides and holds slim knots without puffing. Cotton and viscose, more matte, suit bandana or headband versions where you want hold. Avoid thick fabrics for anything tied near the face, as they bunch and itch.