Men's Wool Scarves: How to Choose and Wear One

A good wool scarf does a lot of work for very little money: it finishes a winter coat, adds a layer on a cold commute and can be changed with a quick re-tie. The choices that matter are size, pattern and colour. Here is how to get them right, how to tie the scarf, and how to look after it.

Size: what 180 × 30 cm actually means

The men's wool scarves in our range measure 180 cm long and 30 cm wide, and most list a weight of approximately 200g. That is a long, slim shape. At 180 cm you have enough length to wrap once and leave both ends hanging, to fold into a loop, or to wear loosely draped. At 30 cm wide the scarf lies flat under a coat collar and does not bunch up at the neck, which matters if you wear a tailored overcoat. At around 200g it is light enough to roll into a bag once you are indoors.

Plain, striped or check?

• Plain: the most flexible choice. The Men's Deep Black Wool Scarf has no pattern at all, so it goes with a work coat and a casual jacket alike.
• Check: adds texture without loud colour. The Men's Navy and Grey Check Wool Scarf works with dark coats and lighter knits, and suits both the office and weekends.
• Striped: a little more personality. The Men's Grey and Beige Striped Wool Scarf uses a neutral palette that sits quietly beside camel, charcoal, navy and olive.

A useful rule: if your coat is plain, you can wear a pattern. If your coat is checked or textured, choose a plain scarf.

Choosing a colour

Start with the coat you wear most. Navy and grey suit almost every colour of outerwear. Black is the simplest and works with a black or charcoal coat. If you want a lift of colour, red and maroon shades stand out against grey, navy and black. Browns and beiges work well with camel, olive and waxed jackets. If you are buying as a gift and are unsure, plain navy or grey is the low-risk option.

Three easy ways to tie a men's scarf

1. The simple loop

Fold the scarf in half lengthways, put it around your neck, and pull the loose ends through the loop. Tighten gently under the collar. It is neat, quick and works with tailoring.

2. The drape

Lay the scarf around your neck and let both ends hang straight down in front of a coat. It shows the pattern best, and suits overcoats and jackets worn open.

3. The single wrap

Take one end once around your neck, leaving both ends hanging at different lengths. Tuck the ends inside a zipped jacket on a colder day.

For more ideas on picking one, read our guide on how men should choose scarves.

Caring for a wool scarf

Follow the care label supplied with your scarf. Store it away from direct sunlight and keep jewellery or sharp accessories from catching the fabric. Fold it flat or roll it rather than hanging it from a hook, so it keeps its shape.

Compare patterns and colours in our full range of men's scarves.

Frequently asked questions

How long should a men's scarf be?

Around 180 cm is a good length. It lets you loop, wrap or drape it. Our men's wool scarves are 180 × 30 cm.

Which colour goes with the most coats?

Navy and grey are the safest choices because they work with black, charcoal, camel and brown outerwear.

How do I stop a scarf looking bulky?

Choose a slim width such as 30 cm, fold it lengthways before looping it, and tuck the ends inside your coat.

Ready-to-ship orders are normally dispatched within 24 hours. UK delivery is free and tracked, and every order comes with 60-day free paperless returns and a lifetime manufacturer's warranty.