7 Chic, New Ways To Wear A Scarf This Season

It’s that time of year again when the bitter chill compels you to bundle up and reach for hats, gloves, and — perhaps most importantly — scarves to help cover every inch of skin. A draped scarf is a staple in your seasonal wardrobe, from the first dropped leaf through the final snowfall. Unlike most other primarily functional cold-weather layers that come off as you move from the outdoors in and vice versa (think: gloves, a hat, your sixth layer), when you're deciding how to wear a scarf, you're considering the fact that it can be styled as an integrated element of your outfit at every level of bundling. And what’s more, there’s a scarf for any ensemble or occasion.

For a cozy, comfy look, look for a thick knit or oversized blanket scarves. Fringed and printed scarves are perfect for adding intrigue to basics or infusing a classic fit with a bit of trend power. Fur makes an excellent choice when you need something a touch more luxurious. And now the fashion world is seeing padded puffer scarves enter the scene as the must-try style of the season, piggybacking on the popularity of their full-size outerwear cousins.

Ahead, we turn to the street style set to inspire seven chic ways to wear a scarf this fall and winter. Whether you wrap it, knot it, drape it, dress it up or dress it down, here’s to staying fashionably warm all season long.

Scarf Outfit: Wide Leg Trousers + Plaid Padded Scarf

The puffer motif has extended well beyond the realm of things sporty with its recent surge in popularity. A plaid padded scarf looks entirely elegant when paired with a luxe knit and wide-leg jewel-tone trousers. Add a sleek leather top-handle for the perfect finishing touch.

Scarf Outfit: Leather + Bright Scarf

Black and leather are foundational elements of most any city girl’s wardrobe, but a brightly colored scarf packs a punch to take your autumn ensemble from dark to daring. For extra impact, bring in some exotic snakeskin textures as well.

Scarf Outfit: Electric Green + Burberry Plaid Scarf

Apply a trendy update to classic plaid by pairing it with electric green. Burberry’s signature check scarf has long been a classic, but bold neon gives it just the right jolt to make it feel modern and of-the-moment.

Scarf Outfit: Navy Suit + Sweater As Scarf

Nail the country club aesthetic of a sweater knotted over the shoulders, but in a more conveniently layer-able package, by choosing a scarf that mimics the look of knit sleeves. A sophisticated navy suit works well as the base for such a preppy accessory.

Scarf Outfit: Jeans + Colorful Oversized Scarf

If you’re the kind of person who lives for all things cozy the moment a chill hits the air, this look has your name written all over it. A oversized scarf basically makes it socially acceptable to bring your blanket with you outside the house. (Now if only the couch could come too...)

Scarf Outfit: Printed Dress + Fur Stole Scarf

When you think of scarves, chances are you think of something knitted or woven, but don’t forget about fur varieties as you plan your winter wardrobe. A touchable stole is especially ideal for evening wear, when you need something warm that won’t look too casual or frumpy.

Scarf Outfit: Bright Fur Coat + Graphic Scarf

Go bold or go home. Slogan scarves are to winter what slogan tees were to summer. A cool, graphic scarf draped over your shoulder will amp up your most basic denim. And if you want to take things a notch higher, toss on a brightly colored fur coat.