6 Creative Ways to Style a Scarf

The outfit possibilities are endless with these of-the-moment accessories.

One of the most frequently asked questions a fashion guru gets is, "what's the one piece I should buy this season?" And though we usually don't like to choose favorites, now more than ever, it makes sense to acquire accessories with multiple purposes. Scarves are timeless accents that add to an outfit with endless wearable versatility. In fact, Olivia is so fond of them that scarf-like details are a design focal point in her eponymous collection. While the trick is usually to tie one around the neck or shoulders, one can get even more inventive by wearing in the hair or recently as an extra protective covering, too. Scroll on for more fresh ways to style the most covetable accessory of the season and shop our picks below.

Amédée Paris scarf; Sally LaPointe pants; Jimmy Choo flats.

DIY a Top or Cape
Tying a scarf into a top holds many possibilities varying from a bandeau look to a bandana crop. We love the version that stylist Jacqueline Zenere created at our editorial shoot earlier this year: a draped halter top. To get the look, first, you'll need a square scarf shape. Take the two endpoints and drape them around the neck, tying them at your nape. Wrap the remainder of the scarf around your bodice and tie it tightly at your back. Then tuck those ends inside the upper wrapped portion, recreating this stylish tank moment.

Another easy option is one of Olivia's go-tos: wearing a larger scarf over the shoulders as a loose cape (seen above). This is an on-trend yet a resourceful alternative to a light spring jacket that protects from the chill with ample polish and movability.

 Left Photo: Aspinal of London

Accent a Bag
Printed neckerchiefs are a classic to have in your accessories arsenal and a must to amplify a summer look. Olivia recommends fastening one onto the handles of a satchel to add a touch of ladylike texture or (when we're able to gather again) wrapping one around a wine carrier for picnics and beyond. This trick brings new life to a handbag, and the neckwear is at your disposal should you want to switch things up midday.

Flair in the Hair
One of Olivia and Gigi Hadid's most-trusted hairstylists, Kenna Kennor, shares that adorning the hair with a scarf is a "beautiful, spontaneous addition." To get his look shown above, first split the hair in two, creating sections by parting across the tops of the ears. Tie the top section into a high pony and leave the bottom section down. Next, take the scarf and wrap it around the top ponytail, knotting underneath, and tie the lower section of hair into a second ponytail. Now, there are three sections to braid together, and once you reach the ends, finish with a hair tie. Wrap the remaining scarf around the bottom of the braid and tie with a knot or bow. Pro tips: for thinner hair, try the look with one ponytail, and to keep the look smooth—no matter the hair type—apply hair oil throughout.

Olivia Palermo Collection Pleat-Back Button-Up Tunic; Vintage Plaid Pant; Vintage Headband; Vintage Scarf

Belt it Out
Why not try something new this season by subbing out a leather belt for a softer finish via a graphic cotton or silk scarf?  This styling hack is easy to pull off: simply guide the accessory through pant loops or chicly tie one around a flowy dress to define the waist. This unexpected detail brings a pop of color, and the best part? No more finessing with a belt's loops. With a scarf, you have the flexibility to adjust whenever desired.

Safely Stylish
A scarf certainly comes in handy as the CDC currently recommends "wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain." Olivia has been fashioning her favorites into safety coverings for distanced walks with Mr. B, and then launders them once home. This is an extra protective measure to help slow the spread, and for more guidance on how to make a covering from household items head here.

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