Down jackets and fuzzy mittens are ever popular. But our favorite cold-weather wardrobe staple? A great-looking scarf. There are a lot of styles out there–and endless ways to wear them. Here are a few suggestions.
1. The Euro
Comb the streets of Europe, and you’ll see this look. Grab a scarf that’s at least four feet long and of a tight knit, and fold it in half, length-wise. Wrap it around your neck and put the tails through the loop. Fasten to your level of comfort (or tolerance to cold!). Pair it with a peacoat for an extra-soft look. Scarf by Sutton Studio, $90 at Bloomingdale’s, with Marc New York coat also from Bloomingdale’s, 900 N. Michigan Ave., 312-440-4460, www.bloomingdales.com.
2. The Indoor-Outdoor
Make your scarf a daylong accessory by choosing one that’s thin with a bit of texture (like this crocheted version, with its pretty ruffles). The best way to tie it? Holding the scarf end-to-end in front of you, wrap it around the front, then back, of your neck so it looks like a collar. Let the ends rest across your chest. Scarf by Double Stitch, $60 at Koros Art + Style, 1019 W. Lake St., 312-738-0155.
3. The Shoulder Throw
Staying warm? Hey, it’s overrated. This super-loose look (just toss one end of the scarf casually over a shoulder) is the quickest fix around. And while it won’t keep the cold out, it’s an easy way to add color. Try a long, knee-sweeping scarf made of thick yarn. Scarf by The Shoulder-Throw, $9.80 at Forever 21, Woodfield Shopping Center, Schaumburg, 847-330-0021, www.forever21.com.