How to Tie a Scarf: Six Easy Ways
Written by Artemis Clo
A scarf is the quickest way to make a plain coat or jumper look finished. If you have never been quite sure how to tie a scarf so it looks deliberate rather than wound on at the last minute, these six easy knots will see you through every season.
How to tie a scarf: choose the right one first
The knot depends on the scarf. Before you start, look at its size and weight.
- Long, light scarves are the most versatile. They loop, drape and knot easily.
- Long, chunky knits are best for one or two simple knots. Anything fussier gets bulky.
- Small squares make neat little knots at the neck, perfect with a shirt collar.
- Very large scarves work best as a wrap around your shoulders.
If you would rather not tie anything at all, a knitted scarf shrug with sleeves gives you the warmth at your shoulders with nothing to arrange. Our accessories also include hats to finish the look.
Accessories to start with
A few pieces that fit what you have just read.
Knitted Scarf Shrug with Sleeves
Women's Flat Cap with Adjustable Back Strap
Fluffy Fur-Effect Winter Hat with Rolled Brim
Six easy ways to tie a scarf
1. The loop
Fold a long scarf in half, place it around your neck, and pull the two loose ends through the loop. Tighten as much or as little as you like. It is neat, warm and stays put under a coat. You will also see it called the Parisian knot, and it is possibly the most useful knot there is.
2. The once-around
Drape the scarf around your neck with one end longer than the other. Wrap the long end once around your neck and let both ends hang at the front. Relaxed and easy, and lovely with a long coat.
3. The simple drape
Hang the scarf over your neck with both ends falling evenly down the front. No knot at all. It works best with a light scarf over a plain jumper or an open jacket.
4. The neckerchief
This is the neatest answer to how to tie a square scarf. Fold a small square into a triangle, then roll it into a band from the long edge. Tie it at the side or front of your neck with a small double knot. Smart with an open-necked shirt.
5. The soft bow
With a light, long scarf, tie a single knot at the front, then make a loose bow with the ends. Pull the loops so they are uneven, which looks more relaxed. Pretty with a blouse or a fine knit.
6. The shoulder wrap
Open out a large scarf and drape it around your shoulders like a shawl. Knot the two front corners loosely at one side, or let them fall. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cool church.
Which knot for which coat and neckline
| You are wearing | Try |
|---|---|
| A belted trench or a coat with a collar | The loop or the neckerchief |
| A long, open coat | The once-around or the simple drape |
| A crew neck jumper | The loop or the soft bow |
| A V-neck or open shirt | The neckerchief or the simple drape |
| An evening dress | The shoulder wrap |
A belted knee-length trench coat is a natural partner for a loop or a neckerchief. Browse our coats and jackets for more shapes to knot a scarf over. With a jumper underneath, a lighter scarf keeps things from feeling bulky. For winter days out, our guide on what to wear to a Christmas market puts the warmest knots to work.
Keeping it in place and looking easy
- Check the mirror once, then stop. A slightly uneven scarf looks more natural than a perfectly symmetrical one.
- Match one colour. Pick a scarf that shares a colour with your coat or jumper, and the outfit pulls together.
- Use a print for interest. A patterned scarf against plain clothes is the easiest way to try a bold print. Our guide on how to wear leopard print starts exactly there.
- Think about weight. A chunky knit scarf and a chunky jumper together can feel like a lot around the neck. Pair thick with thin: a light scarf over a cable knit, a heavy one over a fine knit or a shirt.
- Look after it. Fold scarves rather than knotting them on the hook, so they do not crease where the knot sat. Check the care label before washing, and dry them flat.
- Tuck the ends. On a windy day, tuck the ends inside your coat so they stay put.
Keep a couple of scarves by the front door rather than in a drawer upstairs. You are far more likely to reach for one on the way out, and a scarf is the easiest way to change the feel of the same coat every day of the week. For more ideas on layering for changeable days, see how to layer for British weather.
Pick one knot, practise it twice in the hallway mirror, and it will be yours for life.
Next, from our coats & jackets
Something from a neighbouring rail, for the same moment.
Belted Knee-Length Trench Coat, Loose Fit
Herringbone Longline Coat with Single Button
Long Hooded Bouclé-Look Coat with Buttons
Your questions, answered
How long should a scarf be to tie it easily?
For most knots, a long scarf of roughly the length of your arm span gives you plenty to play with. Small square scarves suit neat knots at the neck, and very large ones are best worn as a wrap.
How do I stop a scarf from slipping?
Fabrics with a little texture grip better than very smooth ones. You can also tuck the ends into a coat, or use a small, discreet pin on the inside of the knot.
Can I wear a scarf indoors?
Of course. A light scarf knotted over a plain top or jumper is an easy way to add colour indoors. Save the chunky ones for outside, so you do not overheat.
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