A while back I shared six ways to style a square bandana, and that post quickly became one of my most popular fashion DIYs. Today I’m sharing six more fresh ways to style a scarf—this time using a longer, rectangular silk scarf for added versatility. Below are step-by-step instructions and photos to help you recreate each look at home.
1. The Bowtie
Also known as the “Flight Attendant” look—polished and playful.
Start with the scarf draped evenly around your neck. Feed one end through a wooden slide and then feed the other end in the opposite direction. To form the bow, loop each end back through the wooden slide so that the fabric creates bow loops on either side. Adjust how much fabric you pull through to make the bow larger or smaller to suit your style.
2. The Knotted Necklace
Lay the scarf flat and tie four evenly spaced knots along its length. Place both ends through the wooden slide and slide it up toward your neck to tighten the scarf into a choker-style shape. Finish by tying one more knot below the slide and tuck the wooden bead or slide to the back for a neat, necklace-like effect.
3. The Twisted Necktie
Twist the full length of the scarf tightly. It helps to secure one end—have someone hold it or tie it to something stable—while you twist the rest. When the scarf is tightly twisted, fold the twisted length onto itself so one end forms a loop. Wrap the scarf around your neck, pull the loose ends through that loop, then place both ends into the wooden slide and adjust the slide upward to secure the look.
4. The Triangle Bolo
Fold the scarf in half diagonally to create a triangle. Drape the triangle point at the front of your chest or higher depending on preference, then thread both ends through the wooden slide and pull it up to the desired height. This creates a relaxed bolo-inspired silhouette that works well over low-neck tops or dresses.
5. The Double Wrap Necktie
Place the scarf around your neck so that the center rests at the front and the ends hang behind. Bring both ends back to the front so the scarf wraps twice around your neck with even lengths at the front. Thread one end through the wooden slide, then thread the other end through in the opposite direction. Adjust the slide and the wrap to create a neat, layered necktie effect.
6. The Bolo Tie
For a classic bolo tie effect, start with the scarf evenly draped around your neck. Feed both ends through the wooden slide and slide it up to create a tied look at the throat. Leave the ends hanging straight for a sleek, elongating finish that pairs nicely with blouses and blazers.
Below are final styling shots that show each finished look on the model for reference and inspiration.
Photography by Amelia Lawrence
Model: Emma Spear
P.S. The scarves used in these looks include a silk neckerchief from Garner Blue and a handmade piece from Atlanta designer Megan Huntz (currently not available online).
Which look is your favorite? I’d love to hear which style you’ll try next.