Layering Scarves: 3 Helpful Options
When the temperatures dip, there’s nothing quite like a scarf to keep you cozy while adding that extra oomph to your outfit. But why settle for just one scarf when you can have fun layering scarves for added texture, warmth, and style?
This idea started with the prompt “Shawls, Capes and Scarves” suggested for my Thrifty 6 group.
Quote of the day: “Once you have learned to ask questions-relevant and appropriate and substantial questions-you have learned how to learn and no one can keep you from learning whatever you want or need to know.” Neil Postman
Scarves haven’t always been one of my favorite accessories.
It’s only since retiring that I have realized how magical these pieces of material can be. In the past, I was overwhelmed with them. I didn’t know the “right” way to wear them or how they could make such an impact.
Insider tip: In all reality, clothing items should NEVER be intimidating. They are only a pieces of material sewn into certain shapes. Even scarves. So remind yourself that you’re the boss, and play around with what you have. You’ll be sure to increase your brain pathways as well as your wardrobe options.
While I’m sharing in the widget a chock-full of amazing under $25 scarves, don’t forget that you can find them at many secondhand stores both online and in person.
While most of us think of scarves as something to add to our outfit in the colder months, I’ve also showcased many ideas on how to wear them in the summer too. If you are looking for more inspiration, then check out the articles I’ve published in the past:
- Scarf top ideas-These can be used over a turtleneck for the winter days
- How to wear a head scarf
- 25 ways to wear a scarf
For today’s prompt, I wanted to take the idea of styling scarves further. I did this by exploring three different ways of layering scarves and how they can transform your seasonal style.
1. Combining Contrasting Textures-Lesley
When you think of layering scarves, the first idea that comes to mind might be combining 2 similar scarves. But let’s kick it up a notch by layering scarves with contrasting textures for added visual interest.
Want another example of layering scarves with different textures? Suzann did it wonderfully in this older article.
Insider tip: In order to get more out of this layering scarf idea, make sure you check your outdoor/winter scarves and try them with your silky scarves.
How Lesley Styled It: Lesley took 2 different blue color print scarves and twisted them around each other. Then she tied them behind her neck. One scarf is silky, while the other is knit.
The best part (seen in our group rear photo) is how the scarves trail down her back giving the people behind her a lovely detail to look at.
Insider tip: Remember just as many people see you from behind, so give them something fun to see.
When to Wear It: This combination works perfectly with a tailored coat or a cozy knit sweater. It’s sophisticated enough for a night out, yet practical for daytime errands in chilly weather.
Why It Works: The magic of this layering technique lies in the contrast—soft versus chunky, smooth versus textured. By blending two different fabrics, you create visual depth, making even a basic outfit look effortlessly stylish.
Just as the layering scarf trick brings a fabulous focus to the top of Lesley’s outfit, her colorful socks do the same with her lower half.
Insider tip: Don’t be afraid to wear bold socks instead of just ones that match your jeans or shoes.
2. Prints on Prints-Jodie
Who says you can’t mix prints? One of the most exciting ways to layer scarves is by playing with different patterns. This trend is all about embracing boldness and creativity, making it perfect for those who love to push the style envelope.
How I Styled It: I searched through my scarves to find 3 print ones that would all go well with this lime green sweater. They don’t all have the same colorway in them (like Lesley’s 2 scarves), but I believe they all mix together wonderfully.
As a totally different option for layering scarves, I thought I would create a large necklace of scarf roses around my neck. I took inspiration from the videos I’ve seen on Instagram showing how to create a “rose” from your scarf.
Insider tip: Most videos about this rose scarf show it with a small square scarf. And while that works wonderfully, my blue color print scarf was a rectangle. So it can be done with other shapes. Just play around and try it.
When to Wear It: This technique is perfect for those who want to make a statement. It’s fun, and quirky, and can add a burst of energy to even the most neutral outfits. Pair this with a simple coat or sweater to let the scarves do all the talking.
Why It Works: Pattern mixing is one of the easiest ways to show off your personality. By pairing different prints, you’re creating a dynamic, eye-catching look. Incidentally, putting together different prints like this is also a brain Exercise.
3. Color Blocking-Charlotte
For those of you who love a pop of color, the color-blocking technique is an excellent way to layering scarves and bring energy into your cold-weather wardrobe. This method is not just about warmth but about making a bold style statement.
How Charlotte Styled It: My mom chose two scarves in different colors. The key is to make sure they contrast against each other! The contrast between the colors will create a stunning visual, making your outfit stand out in the best way possible.
My mom didn’t use the layering scarves trick together, but kept them separate. This is a great way to ease yourself into trying this new styling idea.
She wore her gold scarf as a wrap around her shoulders with a large buckle/clip to keep it in place and then used the navy scarf around her neck to create contrast.
When to Wear It: This scarf layering technique is a fabulous way to not only keep your neck warm but also your shoulders.
In fact, it’s a great alternative to a bolero jacket.
Why It Works: Color blocking is one of the most powerful ways to use scarves because it instantly adds a punch of excitement to your look. By choosing high-contrast colors, you can inject energy into your wardrobe.
Insider tip: This is also a great way to wear a colored top that isn’t the best color for your complexion. By adding a better color scarf around your neck, you are giving a glow to your face.
Final Thoughts on Layering Scarves
The beauty of layering scarves lies in the endless possibilities. Whether you’re mixing textures, playing with patterns, or experimenting with bold colors, scarves are a low-commitment, high-impact way to add both warmth and style to your outfits. They’re the perfect accessories to experiment with because they can be easily added or removed, making them adaptable to both your outfit and the weather.
Insider tip: This is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to layering scarves. We only touched on these 3 ideas and tried to present them in different ways, but with some imagination, you could have a year’s worth of ideas at your fingertips.
So now you know that you don’t have to stop at just one scarf. Layering scarves is a creative idea that will make your closet even larger.
Not only will you stay toasty warm, but you’ll also elevate your outfits with a personal touch that only scarves can bring. You’ll be unique as no one will be wearing the same thing you are.
And remember, fashion is all about having fun and trying new things. So go ahead, layer those scarves, and let your creativity shine.
Thrifty 6
With the fashion and textile industry being a major contributor to landfills and other environmental pollution, we decided to make it the mission of this little group to focus on second-hand items.
Since the prompt for this month was shawls, capes, and scarves, there should be a large variety of options to enjoy below.
Insider tip: If there aren’t many wonderful secondhand shops near you, then I included a list of online shops that I love at the end of this post.
- Emma of Style Splash
- Sally of Within a World of My Own
- Jane of Preloved-Vintage-Handmade
- Jodie (and crew) of Jodie’s Touch of Style
- Nancy of Nancy’s Fashion Style
- Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge
Check out the other members of the Thrifty 6 group for all kinds of ideas about styling scarves, capes, or ponchos.
Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge
“I love any kind of topper piece and scarves are my jam so I appreciated this month’s thrifty theme very much. I paired a preloved cape-like jacket (not a cape because it has sleeves) with an old thrifted scarf over a black secondhand dress for a rich color blocked budget friendly fall outfit.”
Nancy of Nancy’s Fashion Style
“Hats and capes are not for me. I think a cape is a beautifully elegant piece of clothing but I have no idea how and on what to wear it, and I hate hats. So that wasn’t a option. When it’s cold, I always wear a scarf over my mouth to protect my lungs when I go cycling. But the idea of wearing a second-hand scarf over my mouth really bothers me. So I’m skipping school a bit and wearing a selfmade scarf here. Years ago I picked up the idea of crocheting. Just a rectangular piece, the same stitch that were all my talents when it came to crocheting, but I found it very relaxing. And so this scarf came out. Wonderfully warm!”
Emma of Style Splash
“This is one of two capes I bought on eBay a few years ago. It’s from a range of clothes designed by TV and radio presenter Fearne Cotton. For the rest of the outfit, I took my cue from the orange in the check print. The trousers are part of a suit but I’ve switched the jacket for an orange jumper. The hat is an old one from Zara.”
Jane of Preloved-Vintage-Handmade
“The T6 theme for November is “Shawls, Capes & Scarves”, an ideal opportunity to show off my genuine 1960’s hand-crocheted cape.
Although bought separately, it’s a perfect match for my hand-crocheted baker-boy cap; they’re like a set that sadly lost each other many years ago…
I’m bringing them together along with a genuine 1960s ‘Go-Go’ dress and pastel pink leather ‘Go-Go’ boots to create this extremely stylised look.“
Sally of Within a World of My Own
“Scarves are my favorite item to thrift:
-They are usually in great condition
-Basically they are one-size-fits-all (or -most)
-They are pretty much always in style
-They can be found quite inexpensively.
That’s how I have ended up with 151 thrifted scarves 😀 But I do wear them all the time so my cost per wear is good, averaging $0.85 per thrifted scarf.
I went for a print and texture mixed fall look with my thrifted circle motif scarf, thrifted plaid pants, and Retail Oxfords (currently 98 wears and still going strong).”
Online Thrift Stores
These are the ones I’ve used more than once (except Swap, but it comes highly recommended by a friend)
thredUp—this link gives you $10 (and me in return).
Poshmark — here is the post about how to shop the site.
Preworn–10% off with code JODIEFILOGOMO
Etsy
ebay
Swap
Uncommon Closet— nonprofit to help women.
Gild the Lily–a local Michigan store that sells online.
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Welcome to Jodie’s Touch of Style. I’m here to prove that it’s never too late to look great. Clothing and style are meant to showcase your inner personality. So let’s have fun and try new things.
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