Especially this time of year, scarves are one of the most versatile, classic, timeless accessories you can have in your wardrobe. Beyond adding a charming layer of warmth to your outfit, a scarf also does a great job of elevating your look, making it look extra polished and elegant. In your 50s, scarves allow you to achieve a sophisticated, expensive ensemble when styled the right way. Here are some of our favorite ways to wear scarves in your 50s, focusing on thoughtful, expert tips that will get you the results you’re looking for!
1. The Headscarf
If you look for it, you’ll find pictures of women wearing stylish headscarves going back decades, showing exactly how timeless and classic this accessory really is. Wearing your scarf as a head accessory adds a sense of chic glamour to your look, and works best with square styles made from silk or satin.
To style, all you have to do is fold the scarf into a triangle, drape it over your head, and tie it either under your chin or behind your head. Depending on the way you style it, you can add a different sophisticated flair to any one of your looks.
2. The Classic Drape
Of course, there’s no leaving out the simplest and most classic way to wear a scarf – by elegantly draping it loosely around your neck. This foolproof look works beautifully with almost any scarf and is perfect for styling high-quality fabrics like cashmere, wool, and silk. Ultimately, the scarf you choose will determine your final look! Skinnier silk scarves can make for a subtle, classy touch, while larger, bulkier scarves are a warm and elegant addition to your ensemble.
Even if you want to wear your scarf as a pop of color in your look, it’s important to make sure that the color complements the palette of your entire outfit for the best result possible! For a versatile, elegant choice, neutral tones like soft camel, green, or cream are great options.
3. The “Necklace”
For another endlessly classy way to wear your scarf, the front-knot method is here to elevate your looks. Working particularly well with longer scarves made from thin materials like silk or cotton, this styling ‘trick’ is all about wrapping your scarf around your neck and tying it elegantly at the front.
The result is a sophisticated and charming accessory that completely elevates your look in just a few seconds!
Also perfect for adding an extra bit of warmth during the colder months of the year, this method is one you’ll surely find yourself returning to, time and time again.
Related: How to Look Good Over 50: Must-Have Style Tips & Tricks
4. The Shoulder Drape-Tie
For a seamless blend of a modern and a classic way to wear a scarf, try draping your square scarf over your shoulders and tying it at the front. Almost acting like a sweater draped over your shoulder, this method provides the perfect way to add a chic layer to your look without adding any bulk.
Depending on your look, this style is perfect for those casual chic looks that just call for a little extra hint of your personal style while still keeping things simple and sophisticated.
5. The Back Tie
This next method is the perfect way to show off a gorgeous and delicate silk scarf, as it allows plenty of room for the scarf to be spread out over your décollegate and chest area.
Simply take your square scarf and fold it into a triangle. Then, tie the ends on the back of your neck, letting your scarf accessorize the front of your outfit. Perfect for making an elegant statement, this method is perfect for those who are looking to elevate a chic look into something even better.
6. The European Loop
If your priority is warmth as well as fashion, the known and beloved European Loop is the way to go when it comes to styling your cozy scarf this season. Beyond being practical, this look also gives you the opportunity to elevate your look by effortlessly integrating style into the mix.
To achieve this effortless, warm, and secure look, just fold your longer scarf in half, drape it around your neck, and pull the loose ends through the fold’s loop. Adjust it to fit as snuggly or as loosely as you wish, and there you go! The result is a clean, sophisticated look that also adds a little bit of structure to any ensemble. Fabrics like wool or cashmere are perfect for this method.
7. The Belted Scarf
For a little something different, belting your scarf is one of the most stylish and modern ways to wear your accessory in your 50s. This fun method helps to create a chic, more defined silhouette that works best with oversized, long scarves.
All you need to do is drape the scarf over your shoulders, allowing it to fall evenly in front. Then, place your belt over it, cinching your waist and securing the scarf in place!
Whether you’re layering your accessory over a top, a dress, or even a jacket, there are tons of looks that can be created from this quick and easy styling method. To keep the overall look seamless, balanced, and comfortable opt for a slimmer belt when using a thinner scarf, and a wider belt when working with thicker, denser fabrics.
Wearing a Scarf Over 50
Scarves are staples in any wardrobe, especially in your 50s when elegance and sophistication are key. By experimenting with ways to wear this perfect accessory – both old and new! – you can create a huge variety of elevated, sophisticated outfits.
Scarves and French style go hand in hand. Learn how to style your scarf the way a French woman would (and more!) in this next post: How to Dress Like a French Woman Over 50: 16 Ways to Master This Style
