How Should Men Choose a Scarf? Types and Colours

Would you rather brave the cold than work out how men are supposed to wear scarves? You are not alone. Many men steer clear of an accessory that is both practical and stylish simply because they are not sure which scarf to buy or how to tie it. This guide explains how men should choose a scarf: the types of men's scarves, the right size, fabric, pattern and colour, and how to compare scarves before buying so you get one you will wear every winter.

Should men wear scarves?

Yes. A scarf keeps the neck and chest warm, fills the open gap at the collar of an overcoat and adds colour or texture to a plain outfit. Scarves can feel trickier than ties because there is no single "correct" knot, but that is also their charm: a scarf is meant to look relaxed. Once you have the right scarf, a simple drape or loop is all you need.

Types of men's scarves

• Wool winter scarf: the everyday choice, warm and hard-wearing, usually around 180 × 30 cm. Plain, check and striped versions suit most coats.
• Cashmere or fine wool: softer and lighter, easy to tie neatly under a tailored coat.
• Chunky knit: very warm and casual, but bulky and hard to tie under a smart collar.
• Silk or opera scarf: a light, often white or cream scarf worn with eveningwear.
• Cotton or linen: lightweight scarves for spring, summer and travel.

For most men, one good wool scarf covers the whole winter, with a lighter option for spring.

Size matters

A men's scarf is commonly 16 to 30 cm wide and 140 to 180 cm long. Any shorter and you will be limited in how you can tie it. Any longer and, unless you are unusually tall, it may feel bulky or hang below the hem of your jacket. Around 180 × 30 cm is a versatile size that allows a drape, a single loop and a Parisian knot. Always check the measurements on the product page.

Why many men choose wool

Wool is the most popular fabric for a smart winter scarf. A fine wool scarf feels soft and warm, and a finer yarn is less bulky to tie, so you avoid a big, snowman-style knot. A well-chosen wool scarf can be part of your winter wardrobe for years. By contrast, a chunky hand-knitted scarf can be hard to tie neatly, while a very lightweight scarf may not give much warmth on the coldest days. Heavy fringing or lots of decoration also makes a scarf harder to style with a smart coat.

For a classic starting point, the men's grey check wool scarf goes with navy, black and camel coats. If you like stripes, the men's blue striped wool scarf with black and grey is smart and easy to wear, and the men's red, brown and grey striped wool scarf adds warmth to a brown or tweed jacket. All three measure 180 × 30 cm.

Pattern or no pattern?

A boldly patterned scarf lets you make a statement or lift a sober outfit. But unless you want several statement scarves, it is often easier to stick to one or two plain or subtly patterned scarves. Checks and stripes are the easiest patterns to wear because they pick up colours from the rest of your wardrobe.

Colour

A bright scarf, like a bright tie, can liven up a plain outfit. If you prefer a quieter elegance, stick to classic colours such as charcoal, grey, navy and black that tone with the rest of your wardrobe. Match the scarf to your coat first: grey and navy go with nearly everything, while burgundy and brown suit camel and tweed.

Can men wear white scarves?

Yes. A white or cream scarf is a classic with black-tie and eveningwear, often in silk. In the daytime, cream wool looks fresh with a navy or charcoal coat. White marks easily, so keep it for occasions rather than the daily commute.

How to compare high-end men's scarves before buying

• Fibre: check the composition. Pure wool or cashmere is warmer and softer than blends.
• Weight: a fine, dense weave ties neatly and drapes well; a loose weave can pill.
• Finish: look for neat edges and even fringing.
• Size: around 180 cm long suits most men.
• Care: check whether it is hand wash or dry clean only.

Easy ways for men to wear a scarf

The simplest is the drape: hang it around the neck with both ends down the front of an open coat. The once-around wraps one end around the neck for extra warmth. The Parisian knot folds the scarf in half, places it around the neck and pulls both ends through the loop. For more detail, read men's wool scarves: how to choose and wear one, or our general guide how do I choose a scarf?

Questions and answers

How should men choose a scarf?

Start with fabric (wool for winter), then size (about 180 cm long), then a colour that matches your coat, such as grey, navy or a subtle check.

Should men wear scarves?

Yes. A scarf adds warmth and finishes a coat neatly. A simple drape or loop is all most men need.

Can men wear white scarves?

Yes, especially with eveningwear. In daytime, cream wool works well with navy or charcoal coats.

What are the types of men's scarves?

The main types are wool winter scarves, cashmere or fine wool, chunky knits, silk or opera scarves, and lightweight cotton or linen scarves.

Is a scarf a good gift for a man?

Yes. A wool scarf in grey, navy or a check needs no sizing and gets worn all winter.

Shop men's scarves

Browse our men's wool scarves to compare colours and patterns, or see more ideas in gifts for men.

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