How to Tie a Scarf: 7 Styling Tricks That’ll Instantly Elevate Any Outfit

Knowing how to tie a scarf is not considered an art—but maybe it should be. There are just so many ways to knot scarves around your neck, head, wrist, waist, handbag…wherever your creativity leads you. And the effect is immediate because, as always, a successful look depends on the details.

A scarf, be it a patterned silk scarf or a narrow shawl, can add a classic touch to your outfit at any time of year. Here, we’ve broken down seven different scarf-tying techniques and how fashion pros use this trendy accessory.

But first, which scarves are currently on trend?

Scarves have become increasingly popular in recent seasons, and some trends have emerged. Patterned silk scarves with graphic prints, for example, are an absolute must-have right now. Fashion insiders have been snapping up designs like those from Toteme for a minimalist look or decorative, eye-catching prints à la Hermès and Etro.

Triangle scarves and paisley bandanas are also on trend for more casual looks. And with the current tendency toward the fashion trends of the early ’00s, there are also many thin, narrow scarves that can easily be worn around the neck, as a hairband, or as a belt.

How to tie a scarf: 7 ideas

Now that you’re ready to elevate your look with a scarf, let us present seven ways to integrate one into your outfit…

The easiest and quickest way to tie a scarf stylishly around your neck is with a simple knot. Place the scarf around your neck, let the ends hang down evenly, and tie them together in a knot. This works for both small scarves and larger square scarves.

How can you tie a triangular scarf? There are two options. (Tip: If you don’t have a triangle scarf, you can always convert a square scarf by folding it diagonally.)

Option 1: Place the long ends around your neck and tie them loosely. The triangle can now be seen at the back, which can be a fun decorative accent to a backless top or plain white T-shirts.

Option 2: This scarf tying technique is the other way round: Knot the scarf at the nape of the neck or wrap the ends around the neck again at the front and knot them at the sides of the triangle. This turns the scarf into a statement piece.

This quick technique is ideal for tying a square scarf: Fold it diagonally into a triangle and then wrap it into a narrow scarf. Lay the scarf flat around your neck, cross the ends at the back, and bring them to the front. Then tie a loose knot that looks like a bow. The so-called wrap knot gives your look a casual and effortless touch—and is the best scarf-tying technique to protect you from the cold in windy weather.

This simple, understated scarf-tying technique looks particularly good when styled with a crewneck sweater or a shirt. To do this, fold the larger scarf into a narrow shape and wrap it around your neck until only two small ends remain. Tie them in a double knot, hide the ends under the scarf, and twist them to the back. This creates the effect of an endless loop. You can decide how tight or loose you want the scarf to be.

The bow idea shows just how creative and versatile a scarf can be by folding the scarf in the middle to create a wide band. Place it around your neck and bring the ends to the front. Cross them and tie them into a bow. Whether loose or tight is up to you—depending on the look you want. This technique adds a playful touch to any outfit.

The French knot naturally looks chic and elegant, just as its name suggests. Place the scarf flat around your neck with one end longer than the other. Use the longer end to make a loop pointing away from your neck. Then wrap the shorter end around the loop and push it through the loop from below. Pull on both ends to tighten the knot. This scarf-tying technique is ideal for special occasions or if you want a sophisticated look.

Long, narrow scarves, a.k.a. skinny scarves, are particularly popular with Gen Z at the moment—sometimes styled in a romantic, sometimes punk, way. Wrap the ultrathin scarf tightly around your neck from the front to the back, then back to the front, and let the long ends hang loose.

Outfit inspiration: This is how fashion insiders are wearing scarves now

The effortless single knot is the best way to show off the prints of patterned silk scarves, as influencer Juliane Diesner shows.

You can play with the width of the scarf when tying it. Chosen in an accent color and wrapped loosely around the neck, the scarf becomes a statement accessory.

Scarves don’t just have to be tied around the neck—a triangular scarf is the perfect headscarf in summer—or any season, really.

To keep outfits together visually, the scarf can be chosen to match another color in your look using the “sandwich” method. Here, Blanca Miró Scrimieri (you can find countless looks with a scarf on her channel) has tied her scarf in an infinity knot.

In summer a large square scarf can also be turned into a top. To do this, fold over one corner, wrap the scarf around your upper body and fasten it at the back with a double knot. Looks super stylish—especially on a beach vacation.

Fashion pros also love trendy hairstyles with scarves, which is a simple way to add a playful and romantic touch to any outfit. Simply style a plait, ponytail, or bun as usual with a thin hair tie and then tie a small scarf around it.

This post was originally published in Glamour Germany.