Key Takeaways
- Scarves are making the case for replacing your hat this winter, as fashion aficionados are increasingly embracing cozy, trend-forward styles as headwear.
- This is one of the easiest outerwear styles to try for yourself since you likely already have some scarves in your closet, and long wool, alpaca, or cashmere styles are best for balancing practicality with versatility.
Winter can really test your styling skills, as there’s pressure to stay equal parts toasty and chic. Maybe you’ve started layering your straight leg jeans atop punchy printed tights for extra warmth with an element of surprise. Perhaps you’ve tried the of-the-moment stacked sweater look, or you’re leaning into making your outerwear the outfit. Now, the fashion pack is making the case for another cold-weather styling hack: Championing a scarf as your winter headwear hero piece. You could toss on your trusty ribbed black beanie and call it a day—but a scarf (be it silk, woven, or cashmere) makes for a functional yet intriguing outfit that stands out from the crowd. If you’re eager to learn the art of the scarf as headwear, learn all about the trend ahead, from the ideal types of scarves to consider to our favorite styles on the market.
About the Trend
Tying a scarf around your head isn’t a novel concept by any means. In the 1950s, actress and style icon Audrey Hepburn famously pioneered the effortlessly glamorous look, making silk and lightweight cotton styles a fixture in her outfits. As of late, A-listers like Hailey Bieber and Beyoncé have channeled the late actress, opting for breezy scarves as headwear.
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It was only a matter of time before this technique took off, as the look bears a resemblance to the of-the-moment balaclava, which returned with vigor these past few years thanks to reimagined designs from labels like Miu Miu, The Row, Marni, and Paloma Wool. Meanwhile, bonnets are also gaining traction: In fact, The New York Times recently published an article titled “Bonnets Are the Winter Hat of the Moment. For Adults.” But perhaps what sets apart the scarf-as-headwear trick from the rest is you likely already have the accessory lying around the house.
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Scarf Style Considerations
To ensure your scarf wraps all around your head, it’s essential to go with a long style, unless you’re going the Hepburn route with a silk scarf. Additionally, if you wish to cover a good portion of your head, picking a wide, thick silhouette is key.
In terms of fabric, there are a few different directions you can take. A cashmere scarf is perhaps the coziest option out there (and there are so many other ways to style it when you’re not using it as headwear). However, a wool or alpaca style will provide ample warmth, as well. Now that you’ve received a crash course on the scarf-as-hat trend, read on for 13 of our favorite looks on the market to achieve the look.
The Best Scarves to Try as Winter Hats
Subtle Statement: Acne Studios Vally Check Scarf
Ganni
This past year, animal prints have crossed from bold, trending patterns to full-blown modern neutrals. Embrace that accessibly wild energy by draping this ribbed leopard number around your head—it’s sure to help you read as both risk-taking and classically chic.
Classic Winter White: Uniqlo Souffle Yarn Chunky Scarf
Janessa Leone
The name says it all: this Janessa Leoné scarf is ultra-cozy and will make you feel as if you’ve taken a comfortable blanket along with you for the day. Go for a coordinated look by pairing this light gray style with a charcoal-colored coat.
Countryside Chic: House of Bruar Cashmere Tartan Scarf
Silver & Riley
Want nothing more than to emulate vintage icons this winter? On milder days or whenever you want to prioritize aesthetic above all else, a square silk scarf is an ideal headpiece, especially in a chic, French Riviera-inspired palette. You’ll also find endless versatility for this style, from tying it around your neck to an extra touch of personality for your bag.
Center of Attention: Guest in Residence Cloud Scarf
American Vintage
$126 at Anthropologie
Simultaneously playful and elevated, this vivid pink ribbed scarf will garner plenty of attention. If you’re looking for the ultimate contrast, it’ll really pop against a monochromatic cream or beige outfit.
Soft Elegance: Lisa Yang Paris Cashmere Truffle Scarf
Weekend Max Mara
$199 at Maxmara.com
Resembling a tasty bowl of mint chocolate chip ice cream, this pastel Weekend Max Mara scarf is just as sweet as it is practical (not to mention the color has been majorly trending). It’s sure to spark joy every time you toss it on.
Reliably Dark: Daily Paper Black Escarf
Toast
Rendered in navy and beige, this striped scarf from Toast is simultaneously classic, nostalgic, and of-the-moment. Double down on the perennial print by way of a striped cashmere sweater.
Timeless Head-Turner: Loewe Check Anagram Silk-Cashmere Scarf
Loewe
Ground a color-heavy ensemble in the modern classic energy of Loewe’s gray checked silk-cashmere scarf. The neutral palette ensures the piece will remain in style year after year, while the eye-catching pattern and anagram detail keep the look interesting.
