Summer style often means shedding layers, but that can leave an outfit feeling flat. A simple linen dress or white tee and denim works, but can lack punch. This is where the summer scarf comes in. It’s an easy way to add color, pattern, and texture to a lightweight garment without adding heat.
In the cool summer, I still like to wear a scarf around my neck. The key is to choose something simple and tie it loosely, so it feels breezy rather than tight.
When the heat really sets in, I start moving the scarves to another place, to the bag, wrist, or hair. They still add color and pattern, without just making July feel more amazing than it already is.
When the wind returns, I return them to the throat, but loosely. Consider a loose drape, a soft knot, or a thin belt tied with breathing room. The point is to add interest, not to distract.
I’m teaming up with my friends Susan and Cindy today to share some tips for wearing scarves this summer.
Here’s how to style it now to stay cool and look current.
Save Your Hair: Jackie O Move
The wind and humidity of summer can be cruel to your hair. If you’re out on a windy beach, on a boat, or just driving with the windows down, use a large silk square to keep your hair from blowing to death.
Fold a large square scarf into a triangle, drape it over your head, and cross the ends under your chin to tie tightly at the back of your neck. The final move is by Jackie O. It’s incredibly effective because it keeps all the hair in place, but it also looks sleek and purposeful rather than messy. Add a pair of oversized sunglasses, and you’re good to go.
I also like to tuck the ends in the back to protect the scarf but keep my neck from overheating. This is like a durag that has come in and out of popularity.
I don’t have enough hair for a ponytail, but if you do, and you just want to lift your hair up and off your neck on a sticky day, tie a small square of silk at the base of a low ponytail or a soft bun.
Dress Up Your Summer Bag
If it’s too hot to wear an extra layer of fabric, let your accessories be more upscale. A canvas beach bag, purse, or any tote can start to look repetitive in the middle of summer.
The remedy can be as simple as folding a small square scarf diagonally until it’s long and stretchy, then tying it securely to the base of your bag’s handle. It adds instant color, and if you suddenly need it on your head, it’s very effective.
SWEET BANDS
Wrap Your Wrist
If you want a pop of pattern but don’t want anything too close to your face, try a wrap around the wrist. Take a small silk twilly or lightweight cotton bandana, fold it into a small band, and tie the ends together with a small knot. Then slip it on your wrist, twist it, and slide it back and forth until it’s smooth.
It works like a piece of textile jewelry. It stays secure, doesn’t trap body heat the way a heavy metal cuff can, and adds a fun splash of color to whatever you’re wearing.
Mine started around my neck yesterday, and when the temperatures rose, I tucked it around my head and wrapped it around my wrist.
Swap Your Belt for a Silk Scarf
I also like to replace my belt with a long narrow scarf. Take a long, oblong scarf, or fold a large square into a bias belt, and thread it through your belt loops. Tie it loosely at the side, letting the ends hang down. It introduces a pop of print and changes the whole vibe of a basic outfit.
If the scarf is short, I usually stretch it with a few loops on the side and tie in the middle.
Use a Large Lightweight Scarf as a Wrap
On those warm days when you want to wear a sleeveless top or dress but don’t want your arms to be completely bare, a large, lightweight scarf is the perfect solution. A structured jacket or heavy cardigan can feel stuffy in the heat, but a breezy wrap gives you enough coverage without adding weight.
The trick here is to choose the fabric in motion. Look for oversized cotton gauze, a fine linen blend, or silk. Simply pull it over your shoulders and let it hang loose, or tie it loosely in the front. It provides a bit of sun protection during the day, protects you from the hot restaurant atmosphere at night, and adds a nice, fluid layer to a light outfit.
Choose “Hot” Fabrics.
The biggest mistake I see with summer scarves is choosing the wrong weight. Heavy, stiff silk or dense synthetics will make you sweat. They hold the heat, and frankly, they look like they’re in October.
In hot weather, look for cotton gauze, fine linen blends, modal, or more fluid habotai silk. You want something that moves with the breeze, changes shape easily, and feels weightless against your skin. If it doesn’t budge when you leave, leave it in the closet until fall. Eileen Fisher has some charms, of courseQuince, at an amazing price.
A small scarf is an easy way to add color, pattern, or a little polish to a simple summer outfit. Wear it wherever it feels comfortable that day, and skip it if it’s not. That’s the whole trick.
Now let’s look up and see where Cindy isCindy Hattersley Designand SusanX woman Susan Blakeythey are doing with their summer scarves…I know it will be great!
Thanks for reading, and make sure you wear what makes you feel confident.