Did you know that there’s one accessory that can instantly transform your look from ordinary and casual to très chic? Hint, you’ll see it again and again when you start reading about French girl wardrobe staples! There’s a whole lot to love about this little accessory. It doesn’t take up much room in your closet (if you’re anything like me, that’s a huge selling point), it doesn’t have to cost much at all, and it can transition your outfits with ease from season to season. Have you guessed it yet? If you’re yelling “Neck scarf!” at me from the other side of your phone or laptop, you’re exactly right. Even if you’ve never tried styling this French girl staple before, you can read on for 9 chic ways to wear a scarf and nail the style on your first try.
1. Tie it on your bag handle
If you’re still on the fence about styling the scarf on yourself, try it on your bag instead! It’s the perfect way to still get that French girl-inspired look (as modeled by the French girl above). Plus, it can help breathe new life into your bag collection. Adding a scarf to the handle of your bag can make it look like a completely new piece. This is great news for your wallet, and closet space!
A scarf tied around your bag handle can also help to make your bag look more complementary to your outfit. Try choosing a scarf that works with the colors in your clothes to make your bag look like a more intentionally chosen accessory. If you’re styling a monochromatic outfit the scarf can add a pop of color to your look without overwhelming it.
scarf | shirt | jeans | trench coat | boots | bag
2. Tie your winter looks together with a scarf
In the wintertime, a scarf is a key accessory that can help tie your whole outfit together. The right scarf can make you look both elegant and sophisticated – even if you’re just running errands. Just like our coats, a scarf is a “first impression” in colder weather. If you choose a brighter color scarf than your outerwear, it very well may be the first thing that someone notices about your outfit. So, make it count!
A wool or cashmere variety in winter is an easy way to upgrade your outfit instantly. And these fabrics don’t have to be crazy expensive – Quince has a great selection of cashmere scarves for just $50. Not only will cashmere feel cozy while you’re wearing it, but it’s one of those luxe materials that will make your whole outfit look more expensive.
3. Match your top with a scarf for a tonal look
Try matching your scarf to your top to create a tonal effect the next time you want to look more like a French girl. Tonal looks make you appear put together, even though putting together a tonal look is actually a really easy method to choose your outfit in the morning. Incorporate a pattern into your look with your scarf, which will also add interest to more basic pieces (like a solid sweater and jeans).
4. Elevate your casual outfits with a scarf
Who says you have to save your scarf for your special occasion looks? Add a neck scarf to instantly elevate even your most casual outfits. Headed to the airport in sneakers, a popover shirt, and leggings? No problem! A neck scarf can take your look from flight-ready to fabulous in no time.
A scarf is also a great way to add more personality to your look. You can incorporate a fun pattern or color with a scarf, without committing a major part of your outfit to it. Plus, it’s an economical way to try out trending shades. If you aren’t ready to style a whole look of pale pink pieces, try it in a smaller dose with a neck scarf instead.
top | pants | sneakers | scarf | hat | sunglasses
5. Tie it on your ponytail
A scarf can be as useful as it is chic! If you’re in a pinch, you can use it as a makeshift hair tie – or loop it around one that’s already in your hair. It’s the perfect way to add a feminine touch to your everyday look, and can dress up your jeans and button-down. This styling trick is beloved by French girls as they often take a no-fuss approach to their daily hairstyle and makeup routine. If they want to put their hair up in a loose bun or effortless ponytail, a scarf can help to elevate their casual chic attire.
6. Style it as a hair bandana
Love the idea of incorporating a scarf into your hair routine? Here’s another way to do just that. If you want to show off more of your treasured scarf, try wearing it as a bandana style. It acts like a headband to pull back some of your hair, which is also helpful to keep it out of your face on a windy or rainy day. Plus, it just looks chic! Not only could this method help your blowout last another day, but it’s also much more comfortable than most plastic headbands.
7. Loop it through your belt loops
A scarf can also help to take the place of another capsule wardrobe staple if you’re looking to shake things up in your everyday looks. This next method involves looping a long, thin scarf through your belt loops and tying it in the front. If you want to add definition to your waist in a comfortable way, this is a great idea. A scarf won’t dig into your skin when you bend over like a traditional leather belt would.
Plus, if you choose a bright color or pattern in your scarf, it will naturally draw the eye towards the smallest part of your waist where the belt is tied. It creates a slimming look effect and also allows your scarf to take center stage!
scarf | shoes | jeans | sweater | earrings
8. Use it as a neck scarf
Next up is one of the more traditional and popular ways that French girls love to wear their scarves. Tying a square scarf around their neck as a bandana is a beloved style that French girls wear year long. In the wintertime, it’s a great way to add that pop of color to a dreary gray day.
In the spring, you can sport your florals in a fun and fresh way by wearing them in your neck scarf. Or, if your outfit is just missing a little something you can use this trick to set your style apart.
9. Wear it around your collar or turtleneck
Last but not least, your scarf can replace a tie around your shirt collar or turtleneck. It’s a feminine take on the masculine uniform of a button-down shirt and tie for the office.
Secure it with a small knot like what’s shown above, or you can choose a longer style of scarf and tie a bow at the center, or just off to the side. Whether you style it to grab a coffee or as a new twist to your daily work uniform, it’s a great way to make any top look more interesting.
The Finishing Touch to Any Look
When it comes to how to wear a scarf in creative ways, French girls are the perfect inspiration. However, you don’t have to live in the City of Lights to start incorporating this Parisian wardrobe staple into your daily looks. There are so many fun ways that you can finish off your look with a scarf. Whether you want it to tie everything together or be the star of your outfit, a scarf can be an easy, inexpensive way to add personality to your capsule wardrobe.
Are you ready for spring weather (and outfits)? Up Next: How to Dress Like a French Girl This Spring
Excellent article! Thank you for you style insight.
You’re welcome, Cresa!