In the next few editions of my column, I will be focusing on different accessories that can totally rejuvenate your look.
Everyone knows just how versatile scarves are. Recently, the scarf has gone through a kind of rebirth, re-emerging in a great number of forms. Its appeal as an accessory has trumped its utilitarian function of keeping the neck warm. Scarves are the ideal accent for any outfit, be it an everyday getup like a sweater and jeans, a weekend ensemble like a little black dress, or garb for a job interview like a blazer and slacks.
It is easy to play it safe with accessories because we feel as though they speak for themselves, but we must resist the temptation to become idle scarf-wearers. Many of us wrap scarves around our necks in the same habitual motion, just as we brush our teeth or pull on our socks in the morning.
The three most common ways to wear scarves are: 1) the "simple drape," which involves no effort on the wearer's part, 2) the "loop"—you fold the scarf in half, pull the ends through the hole, and tighten, and 3) the "symmetrical strangler"— you wrap the scarf behind you and cross over the two sides, bring them forward, and let the ends hang at your chest.
Michelle Phan, self-made Youtube fashion and makeup guru, offers seven innovative alternatives to tying a scarf (7 Ways to Wear a Scarf). Though they are only slight variations of the aforementioned looks, her ideas make a world of difference. My favorite suggestion is the triple loop, which adds a funky twist to the "loop."
Another way to revamp your accessory inventory is to invest in a circle scarf, my newest obsession. Circle (also known as infinity) scarves, not only provide a bulky layer of warmth and comfort, but also complement a down jacket or cardigan perfectly. The thick texture of circle scarves makes for a cozy companion and it is fantastic to rest assured that the (non-existent) ends will not drag on the ground. Safely secured around your neck in perfect symmetry, circle scarves serve as the perfect addition to any ensemble.
Circle scarves are unisex as most of them are tones of neutral colors, like charcoal gray and navy blue. Additionally, every circle scarf from American Apparel, one of the pioneers of this simplistic yet ingenious must-have, is accompanied by a circular (for obvious reasons) tag displaying 13 different ways to wear a circle scarf.
Essentially a thick, soft blanket, a circle scarf can be draped around your neck, wrapped and twisted around your head as a turban, or even used as a shawl. Plus, you can stretch out one of the folds in the front and cover your mouth as a quasi-facemask in the cold or pull the back portion over your head for protection from the rain.
The polar bear hood-mitten combo that the cheerleading team unveiled on campus was not only a smashing hit at Bowdoin, but also seemed to be a nationwide phenomenon. The cute concept reached many different audiences, including young children, college students and parents.
Scarf-mitten combinations serve a dual purpose, providing an effortless way to stay warm. We misplace gloves so often, and the simple solution of a connective scarf is as pragmatic as it is innovative. Though we may be especially inclined to reach for our scarves in the wintertime, remember that scarves are not seasonal. Come springtime, be on the lookout for silk and satin, or circle scarves of a sheer fabric. Scarves never fail to spice up any look, 365 days a year.