The cold winter months are upon us. As temperatures drop and icy winds blow, it’s important to bundle up and keep warm. And for the stylish gentleman, an essential item that both provides warmth and elevates any winter outfit is a men’s scarf.
Men’s scarves are not only practical, but also fashionable. They can:
- Keep your neck and face warm. A quality scarf acts as an insulating layer, trapping your body heat to help you stay toasty.
- Complete any winter look. Scarves instantly dress up basic outfits and add a splash of color.
- Allow you to express personal style. With countless fabrics, colors, and styles available, you can find a scarf to match your unique fashion sense.
- Protect against the elements. Bitter winds and freezing temps won’t stand a chance against a cozy cashmere or wool scarf.
So don’t underestimate the power of the men’s scarf this winter. Keep reading to discover different styles, fabrics, ways to tie them, and tips for incorporating this versatile accessory into your cold-weather wardrobe.
Top Scarf Fabrics for Warmth and Style
When selecting a winter scarf, fabric is key. The right materials will provide warmth, comfort, and style over frigid months. Consider these top fabrics for men’s winter scarves:
Cashmere
- Luxuriously soft and exceptionally warm
- Expensive, but durable if cared for properly
- Provides insulation without bulk
- Available in a rainbow of rich colors
Wool
- Naturally moisture wicking to avoid feeling damp
- Retains heat even when wet from snow or rain
- Durable and long-lasting if taken care of
- Merino is exceptionally soft against sensitive skin
Cotton
- Affordable option good for milder climates
- Gets softer over time without pilling
- Machine washable for easy care
- More variety in patterns like plaids and checks
Acrylic
- Budget-friendly synthetic option
- Mimics qualities of wool while being less costly
- Machine washable and fast drying
- Can be scratchy for some; look for softer blends
When deciding which fabric is right for you, consider climate, budget and specific needs like skin sensitivity. A wool or cashmere scarf may represent more upfront investment, but well-made scarves in these fabrics can last for many years with proper care.
How to Wear a Men’s Winter Scarf with Style
Simply draping a scarf around your neck isn’t enough to maximize style points. Follow these tips for incorporating scarves into winter outfits with panache:
Pair complimentary colors
Match scarf color to other items you’re wearing for a pulled-together, thoughtful look. For example, wear a navy blue scarf with a navy peacoat or gray scarf with a charcoal overcoat.
Consider lighter shades to brighten dark outfits
Winter clothing skews dark. Opt for white, camel, gray or even a pinkish scarf to lighten up darker jackets and coats.
Contrast textures
Play with different fabric textures by pairing a chunky knit scarf with a sleek leather jacket or fuzzy scarf over a crisp button-down.
Don’t cover up the outfit
The scarf should accent what you’re wearing, not overwhelm. Choose thinner fabrics like cashmere or lighter weight wool if concerned about bulk.
Finish with stylish knots or drapes
No loose, sloppy ends. Keep them neatly tucked or tied. More on stylish ways to tie below!
5 Trendy Ways to Tie a Men’s Scarf
Any man can casually toss on a scarf, but tying it with intention amps up the style factor. From European inspired knots to chunky winter drapes, here are five trendy techniques:
- The European Loop
- The Ascot Knot
- The Parisian Knot
- The Wrap Drape
- Infinity Loop
The European Loop creates a cosy funnel shape while leaving fabric ends visible for a polished yet casual look. Drape around the neck, cross ends in front then feed back through the loop.
An Ascot Knot nods to old-world elegance. Place around your neck with ends even, cross one end over the other then back through the neck loop and tighten gently at your throat.
For the Parisian, drape the scarf around your neck, cross the fabric ends behind you and pull them back around to the front. Feed ends through the resulting neck loop and adjust. Voilà!
Go for full coverage with a Wrap Drape. Place the scarf behind your head with fabric even on both sides then simply cross in front and wrap around your neck until cozy and secure.
The Infinity Loop continuously wraps the neck for seamless style. Twist the scarf into a circle then loop it around your neck for a warm, clean look.
Have fun tying on your new winter scarf in different ways. The options are truly endless!
3 Tips for Caring for Your Scarf
Caring properly for scarves ensures they’ll last for many more winters to come. Here are three key maintenance tips:
- When washing, always follow fabric care instructions. Most cashmere and wool scarves must be dry cleaned or hand washed only.
- Air dry flat instead of throwing in the dryer which can damage delicate fabrics cause shrinking.
- Store folded or hanging, not wadded up which can stretch the knit. Avoid plastic bins or bags which prevent airflow.
With some TLC, a quality men’s winter scarf can become a beloved cold weather companion for years on end.
Shop Top-Rated Men’s Scarves for Winter
Now that you know the essentials of selecting, wearing and caring for winter scarves, here are five highly-rated men’s scarves perfect for this winter and beyond:
- State Cashmere Wool Scarf An elegantly trimmed blend of merino wool and cashmere at an accessible luxury price point.
- H&M Plaid Scarf A budget-friendly, versatile classic plaid. Easy to incorporate into any winter wardrobe.
- Banana Republic Cashmere Scarf High quality soft cashmere available in neutrals and bold hues sure to turn heads.
- J.Crew Chunky Knit Scarf With exaggerated ribbed texture, this scarf makes a stylish statement.
- Gucci GG Jacquard Weave Scarf Iconic and instantly recognizable, for the man who appreciates luxury details. Wrap yourself in the Gucci lifestyle.
Face winter head-on with a stylish, warming scarf at your side. Your neck and fashion sense will thank you once frigid temps sweep in. Don’t get left out in the cold!
