Scarves have been a popular fashion accessory for women for decades. The right scarf can add a touch of style, warmth, and even glamour to any outfit. But with changing fashion trends, many women wonder if scarves are still in style or if they are a relic of fashion past. The answer is a resounding yes – women’s scarves are still very much on trend and are available in a wider variety than ever before.
The History of Women’s Scarves
Scarves have a long history as both a practical and fashionable accessory for women. As early as the 16th century, women wore scarves around their heads and necks for modesty and warmth. Silk scarves became popular in the 1920s, when pioneering French designer Hermès introduced their iconic silk carré scarf. Movie stars helped popularize the trend of wearing silk scarves tied around the neck or head.
In the 1940s, silk became scarce during World War II. Women instead wore practical square scarves tied under their chins while working wartime jobs. The 1950s saw the rise of neck scarves tied in elaborate bows and the emergence of new prints and colors like leopard and graphic black and white.
In the 1960s and 70s, scarves took on new forms like the ascot, a wide neck scarf tied loosely. The pussy-bow blouse with an oversized bow tied at the neck also came into fashion. In the 1980s and 90s, silk Hermès scarves were a status symbol among wealthy women. At the same time, teenagers popularized tying bandanas or large graphic scarves in their hair.
The Resurgence of Scarves in Women’s Fashion
In the 2000s and beyond, scarves have seen a resurgence in popularity. What was once seen by some as an old-fashioned accessory is now back in style. Designers are introducing new prints, fabrics like cashmere, and ways to tie scarves to keep them fresh and fashion-forward.
Part of what makes scarves appealing again is their versatility. They can add some style while also providing warmth during cool weather. Scarves come in a variety of fabrics from delicate silks to cozy chunky knits, making them practical year-round accessories.
The Many Styles of Modern Women’s Scarves
Today, women have an abundance of scarf styles to choose from. The classic silk neck scarf will likely never go out of favor. Designers like Gucci and others continue to release new takes on silk scarves in exciting prints and colors each fashion season.
Oversized blanket scarves are also very on-trend, adding drama and warmth to any outfit. These come in prints, solids, plaids – there’s an oversized scarf to complement any style. Blanket scarves look great paired with casual jeans and boots or even over the shoulders of a formal coat dress on a night out.
For more warmth, chunky knit scarves provide both style and coziness for winter wear. Available in solids, colorblocks, Fair Isle prints and more, the options are endless for knit scarves to tie over sweaters and coats.
Lightweight scarves in viscose, rayon, or chiffon are also popular for transitional weather. These come in a variety of floral prints and patterns perfect for tying over sundresses and tanks in early fall or spring.
How Modern Women Style Scarves
There are endless options for how to tie and style modern women’s scarves. One easy way is to simply tie a silk scarf into a loose knot and let the ends hang long over a blouse or sweater. This looks chic while also covering the neckline for added warmth.
A blanket or knit scarf can add visual interest layered over the shoulders of an open coat or cardigan. Tie a chunky scarf in a loose knot or style it long like a shawl draped around your shoulders and upper body for extra coziness.
For a retro look, tie a bandana or graphic print scarf over your hair like a headband. Fold a square silk scarf into a triangle shape and tie under your chin for a classic 1940s inspired style.
Modern women are also having fun styling scarves in unexpected ways. For example, use a lightweight scarf as a belt over a tunic or dress. Or tie a silk scarf to your handbag as an accessory for extra flair. Feel free to get creative with different ways to incorporate scarves into your outfits.
Why Scarves Remain an Essential Accessory
It’s clear that women’s scarves are anything but outdated. If anything, they are more ubiquitous in women’s fashion than ever. So why do scarves remain such an enduring must-have accessory?
Scarves are Extremely Versatile
One of the key reasons scarves remain essential is their versatility. As we’ve seen, they come in a huge variety of fabrics, prints, and sizes. This means women can wear scarves all year long for both fashion and function.
In warmer months, lightweight scarves add a bit of polish while also protecting skin from the sun. Come winter, oversized and knit scarves provide much-needed warmth without sacrificing style. The same scarf can transition a summer dress into fall or give a coat extra coziness in winter.
They Allow Women to Express Personal Style
Another reason scarves maintain popularity is they allow women to put their own spin on current fashion trends. With endless styling options, women can use scarves to express their personal tastes and style. For example, an edgy streetwear aficionado may tie her graphic print scarf over bleached jeans and a crop top. Meanwhile, a boho chick can drape and knot piles of scarves over her floaty dress to complement her look.
Scarves are also relatively affordable ways to incorporate designer fashion into your wardrobe without spending a fortune. Brands like Gucci and Burberry release new IT scarves every season that allow regular consumers to participate in luxury trends.
Scarves Have a Nostalgic Appeal
Finally, scarves appeal because they provoke a sense of nostalgia. Many women have fond memories of borrowing their mother’s or grandmother’s silk scarves for dress-up. The glamour of old Hollywood also inspires modern women to channel stars like Audrey Hepburn who tied silky scarves around their necks and heads.
At the same time, scarves feel fresh and current with updated prints, fabrics, and styling. This winning combination of nostalgia and innovation ensures scarves will continue to be an essential accessory for seasons to come.
