How Should Men Choose Scarves?

Would you rather brave the cold than figure out how men are supposed to wear scarves?

If so, you’re not alone!

How to wear a winter scarf in a way that looks smart and relaxed, rather than absent-minded, is something that baffles many men.

So they steer clear of an accessory that has huge potential for them, both functionally and stylistically.

We wondered if what unnerves men most is that scarves are so different from ties. Ties are precise. One glance in the mirror and you know whether you’ve got it right. Scarves are altogether more individual, and they seem to need to be worn with a certain nonchalance, as if the wearer isn’t trying.

And it’s hard to look nonchalant when you’re not sure what you’re doing!

With that in mind, here are some tips for pulling off a chic, effortless look quickly and confidently before you dash out of the door.

Start by choosing the right men’s scarf

As with all accessories, your choice of scarf is very much a matter of personal taste. But there are a few things worth bearing in mind when you buy.

So, before we get into the business of the easiest ways to knot your scarf, here are some selection tips.

Size matters

A men’s scarf is commonly somewhere between 16 and 30 cm wide (around 6 to 12 inches) and between 140 and 178 cm long (around 55 to 70 inches). Any shorter and you’ll be limited as to how you can tie it. Any longer and, unless you’re unusually tall, it may feel bulky or peek out below the hem of your jacket. Always check the measurements on the product page.

Why many people choose wool

Wool is a popular choice for a smart winter scarf. Many people find a fine wool scarf soft and warm, and a finer yarn is less bulky to tie, so you avoid a big, snowman-style knot. Comfort is personal, so check the stated composition and care label before you buy.

A well-chosen wool scarf can be a long-lasting part of a winter wardrobe. 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 will also make a scarf harder to style with a smart coat.

For a classic starting point, try the Men’s Grey Check Wool Scarf or the Men’s Blue Grey Tartan Wool Scarf.

Pattern or no pattern?

A brightly coloured, boldly patterned scarf gives you the opportunity to make a statement, or to transform a sober outfit.

But unless you specifically want several boldly patterned scarves, it’s often easier to add colour with ties and pocket squares, and to stick to one or two single-coloured scarves.

Colour

Colour is such a personal thing.

A brightly coloured scarf, just like a bright tie, can liven up a plain outfit.

But if it’s a quieter sort of elegance that you’re after, our advice is to stick to classic colours such as charcoal, navy and black that tone with the rest of your wardrobe.

Where to start

Browse our men’s scarves to compare colours and patterns, or see more ideas in our men’s accessories.

Orders are normally dispatched within 24 hours, with free tracked UK delivery, 60-day free paperless returns and a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.