In the realm of Classic Style, every detail of your outfit can and should work together to help you look your best. This attention to detail extends even to the way that you tie your scarf knot. In this article, you will learn a total of seven ways to tie a scarf to perfectly complete and complement your classic cold-weather ensembles.
- Why You Should Employ Stylish Scarf Knots
- The Basics of Tying a Scarf Knot
- Find the Right Scarf Knot for You
- The Over-the-Shoulder Scarf Knot
- Steps for Tying the Over-the-Shoulder Scarf Knot
- The Once-Around Chest Warmer Scarf Knot
- Steps for the Once-Around Chest Warmer Scarf Knot
- The Loop Tie Scarf Knot
- Steps for the Loop Tie Scarf Knot
- Scarves and Temperate Climates
- The Knotted Once-Around Scarf Knot
- Steps for the Knotted Once-Around Scarf Knot
- Titanic Textures for Timeless Ensembles
- The Pull-Through Scarf Knot
- Steps for the Pull-Through Knot
- The Count Scarf Knot
- Steps for The Count Scarf Knot
- The Modified Four-in-Hand Scarf Knot
- Steps for the Modified Four-in-Hand Scarf Knot
- Keeping It Casual
- Conclusion
- Scarves for Every Occasion, Season, and Formality
- Outfit Rundown
Naturally, the scarf is an essential accessory that will serve you well whether there is just a nippy chill in the air or if you find yourself wandering through a veritable blizzard, but it can be so much more!
Like any Classic menswear accessory, the scarf can serve its function well and still possess the unique style, debonair charm, and timeless versatility that is a hallmark of all the very best menswear accessories.
Learn how to find a quality scarf
Why You Should Employ Stylish Scarf Knots
Scarf Knots Dictate Style and Function
A scarf, while fundamentally a functional piece designed for warmth, might render the mastery of intricate knotting techniques a seemingly superfluous pursuit given their ornamental nature. Yet, these knots are not merely decorative flourishes; they are integral to maximizing insulation and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your ensemble.
Scarf Knots Control How Well-Insulating Your Scarf Is
From a practical standpoint, the way you tie your scarf can significantly affect the level of warmth it provides to your ensemble.
A loosely tied scarf with an open knot offers a cooler experience by promoting better air flow. This style is ideal for situations where the scarf serves primarily as an accessory and overheating is a concern.
Conversely, in colder environments, a scarf tied in a tight and secure knot ensures better insulation. It creates a snug barrier that helps to retain body heat, particularly around vulnerable spots such as the back of the neck.
Scarf Knots Add Versatility that Makes Your Scarves Go Further
If you’re a fan of Classic Style, you understand the importance of accessories that are not just practical but also exude sophistication and elegance. Scarves stand out in this category: their diverse palette, distinctive designs, and timeless appeal do more than keep you warm because they also enhance your style with grace.
The way you tie your scarf matters as well. A classic scarf knot isn’t merely functional: it adds a touch of charm and finesse to your appearance. Pairing any outfit with a scarf that is correctly tied can transform your cold-weather ensemble. It’s also an ideal strategy for showcasing your beloved scarf at its finest.
Learn how to pair overcoats with gloves and scarves!
The Basics of Tying a Scarf Knot
Get a Scarf that is the Proper Length and Width
To ensure that your scarf functions properly with the following knot suggestions, ensure that it has the proper dimensions.
| The Correct Length | The Correct Width |
|---|---|
| A quality menswear scarf should be between 70 and 75 inches in length (About 178 to 191 centimeters.) This ensures that the scarf is long enough to complete each knot but not so long that it becomes bulky and inelegant. | Your scarf should also have a width of between 10 to 14 inches (25 to 35 centimeters). A scarf that is too skinny will have insufficient mass to drape pleasingly, and it will not insulate you as well. An overly wide scarf, on the other hand, will be awkward to wear and knot. |
It just didn’t measure up
The Burberry Scarf
While Burberry might be famous for its outerwear, our in-depth analysis of a Burberry scarf found that it was too short to function well. Find out what else we thought about this iconic menswear item in our Is It Worth It? Review.
Invest in a Quality Scarf
In the world of functional fashion, it’s axiomatic that the value you receive is proportional to your investment. This holds particularly true for scarves. Though the allure of inexpensive options may tempt you, opting for a low-quality scarf often leads to frustrations. Such scarves tend to be flimsy, rendering them nearly impossible to knot effectively. They are prone to pilling and lose their shape swiftly, even when executing the simplest knots. Yet, this is merely scratching the surface. Inferior scarves fall short of their most fundamental purpose: keeping you comfortably warm. Investing in a high-quality scarf ensures durability, ease of use, and most importantly, effective insulation against the cold.
Learn more in our in-depth examination of what distinguishes a $20 scarf from a $200 scarf.
Practice Makes Perfect
Like learning how to tie a necktie or bow tie for the first time, it can be frustrating when you first start tying scarf knots. However, as you will see, these knots have an important practical impact on the functionality of your scarf, so it is definitely worth your time and effort to practice and perfect them. Doing so will increase your style, the unique look of your outfit, and how warm you feel!
Interested in more fall ensemble inspiration? Browse the Fort Belvedere Fall Lookbook!
Fall into autumnal style with Fort Belvedere accessories, including scarves, that bridge the gap from warm to cold weather, and take full advantage of the gorgeous colors of this remarkable season.
Scarf Knot FAQ
How do you tie a scarf knot?
The way that you tie any scarf knot will depend upon the knot you want to tie. You should select your desired knot based on the temperature and the nature of any events you may be attending. This guide will help you select the proper scarf knot and provides step-by-step instructions.
Does how I tie my scarf matter?
Yes, it does! How you tie your scarf will dictate how air circulates around your body, impacting how cool or warm you are while wearing the scarf. Scarf knots also influence how elegant the scarf appears, which impacts the look of your entire ensemble.
What are the easiest scarf knots to tie?
With practice, you can quickly perfect any scarf knot. For beginners, however, we recommend starting out with the Over-the-Shoulder, Once-Around Chest Warmer, and Loop Knots.
What makes a scarf knot classic?
A classic scarf knot is not pretentious, achieving its basic function – keeping you warm – while also appearing subtle and refined. If the knot of your scarf is the most noticeable component of your outfit, it is definitely not a classic scarf knot.
How do I make a scarf knot look elegant and formal?
In general, any knot that is tidy and well-maintained will appear elegant and formal. All of the knots included in this guide can be worn formally.
What are the best scarf materials?
The best scarf material is the material suited to the temperature in which you will be wearing the scarf. When it is colder, insulating materials like cashmere or wool will be best. When it is warmer, lighter and breathable materials like silk, linen, or cotton are ideal.
Can I wear a scarf in the warm months like spring and summer?
Yes, you can! A lightweight scarf, worn similarly to a day ascot, will not overheat you, especially when tied in a looser knot. Scarves worn in the summer are especially associated with the style of Mediterranean countries like Spain, Italy, and the French Riviera.
Find the Right Scarf Knot for You
To aid in determining which scarf knot will best serve your needs, we have created this handy table with basic information about each of the scarf knots we will explain. After finding the right scarf knot for you, you can simply jump to the relevant section using the Table of Contents feature above.
| Scarf Knot Name | Temperature | Difficulty | Best worn with… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over-the-Shoulder | Temperate | Easy | Jacket, Coat, or Overcoat |
| Once-Around Chest Warmer | Cold to Very Cold | Easy | Coat or Overcoat |
| Loop Tie | Temperate to Cold | Medium | Jacket, Coat, or Overcoat |
| Knotted Once-Around | Cold to Very Cold | Medium | Coat or Overcoat |
| Pull-Through Knot | Temperate to Cold | Hard | Coat or Overcoat |
| The Count | Temperate to Cold | Hard | Jacket, Coat, or Overcoat |
| Modified Four-in-Hand | Temperate to Cold | Hard | Coat or Overcoat |
The Over-the-Shoulder Scarf Knot
The Over-the-Shoulder Knot may not be a complete knot, but it is the easiest to master. Chances are, you’ve been tying this knot instinctively for quite some time. This casual yet stylish knot pairs exceptionally well with a silk scarf and adds an elegant touch to evening attire and formal events.
This knot works very well with common scarf fabrics, like cashmere or wool, but because it is loose and does not provide full insulation, it should be saved for days when it is not extremely cold. This does mean, however, that this scarf knot is ideally paired with warm-weather scarf materials like silk, linen, and cotton.
This knot can be worn with a slightly shorter scarf if desired and ought to be paired with an overcoat or a jacket that has an opening that’s not too deep, with a textured fabric so the scarf can grip the material and doesn’t just slide off: a worsted jacket is ideal, for instance.
Over-the-Shoulder
Elegance
When the chill in the air is not yet at its chilliest, the casual charm of a loosely draped, over-the-shoulder scarf is an elevating accessory that can add texture, color, and depth to your ensemble without adding excess heat. In the fall and spring, a loosely knotted scarf is a great addition to any outfit.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for Tying the Over-the-Shoulder Scarf Knot
Take the scarf and hang it over your neck.
Adjust the scarf so that one end is slightly longer than the other.
Throw the longer end of the scarf over your shoulder.
Adjust the length of the scarf so that the end on your front and the end on your back are roughly the same length.
Cold-Weather Black Tie
The Formal Evening Scarf
During the Golden Age of Menswear, an elegant evening scarf was indispensable for a complete Black Tie ensemble during colder months. These scarves, typically crafted from silk satin, were not only practical but also a stylish accessory. They seamlessly complemented a formal evening overcoat and white gloves, enhancing any Black Tie attire. Such was their dynamic appeal that evening scarves were worn even in milder conditions, contributing unique visual interest and an effortlessly chic touch to the outfit. Though less common today, a formal evening scarf remains a timeless addition to Black Tie ensembles, infusing them with its distinctive debonair allure and vintage elegance.
Master Black Tie!
Shop the Understated Elegance of Black Tie Accessories
The Once-Around Chest Warmer Scarf Knot
While this knot is not strictly classified as a true knot, it offers greater security compared to the Over-the-Shoulder style. This particular knot provides extensive coverage of the neck and chest area, making it perfect for chillier conditions.
To achieve the intended aesthetic with this knot, wearing a coat or overcoat is essential. Additionally, when paired with a double-sided scarf, the resulting knot displays both sides impressively, creating a striking and bold look.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for the Once-Around Chest Warmer Scarf Knot
Hang your scarf around your neck, with both ends even.
Adjust the length so that one side is about as long as one-third of the scarf, and the other end is two-thirds. It doesn’t matter which end is longer.
Tuck the shorter end of the scarf underneath your coat, diagonally across the chest.
Loop the longer side of the scarf once around your neck.
After wrapping it around your neck, tuck the longer end across the chest on the opposite side.
Holding each end in place, button up your coat and adjust the scarf as desired. If the scarf is doubled-sided, try to display both sides for the maximum effect.
Double-Sided Delights with Reversible Scarves
When it comes to versatile cold-weather accessories, few articles can match the unparalleled adaptability of the double-sided, reversible scarf. This isn’t just your average piece of winter wear; it’s a fashion powerhouse that essentially provides you with two distinct scarves rolled into one. The beauty lies not only in its dual-functionality for styling but also in the ingenious way both sides can be showcased simultaneously through a variety of scarf knots. This unveils no fewer than three unique styling opportunities with each individual scarf.
Investing in a double-sided scarf means pushing the boundaries of your wardrobe without overcrowding it. For those seeking to make their investment stretch further, there’s simply no better option. A double-sided scarf is the epitome of smart fashion – a statement in economy and style.
Fort Belvedere
Double Sided Scarf in Blue Silk Wool Paisley and Plaid
Fort Belvedere
Alpaca Scarf Double Sided in Dark Blue and Grey
Fort Belvedere
Reversible Scarf in Burnt Orange, Red and Blue Silk Wool Pattern and Checks
The Loop Tie Scarf Knot
The Loop Tie, also known as the European Loop, the French Twist, the French Knot, or the Parisian Knot, is a debonair option with casual, Continental charm. It is very easy to do and is one of Raphael’s personal favorites because it’s quick, simple, and it looks nonchalant, with a slight asymmetry that is very pleasing.
“[He was] crowned with a pink and violet scarf of Indian cashmere….”
from À la recherche du temps perdu by Marcel Proust
Because of its looser fit and exposed sides, The Loop Tie is not ideal for very cold conditions. It pairs best with a high to medium-cut V-neck jacket or overcoat opening, but a dramatically deep V may leave portions of your shirt front exposed. It can be worn with a sports coat, a blazer, or an overcoat, but when worn with a jacket or short coat, it is best to leave this knot untucked.
Ensure that you have a scarf of sufficient length because short scarves will usually come undone with this knot. It is, however, a great way to wear a double-sided scarf because you get a different look every time that can be easily adjusted to show off the elegant look of your scarf.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for the Loop Tie Scarf Knot
Fold the entire scarf in half, lengthwise.
Place the scarf behind your head, with your off-hand through the loop formed by the folded scarf and your dominant hand gripping the two ends.
Bring your arms together in front of your neck, and pull the two ends through the loop held by your other hand.
Pull the ends through the loop, tight enough to insulate your body but not so tight as to be uncomfortable or choke yourself.
You can let the ends dangle outside of your coat if desired.
You can also tuck the ends into the front of your coat.
Scarves and Temperate Climates
The Knotted Once-Around Scarf Knot
The Knotted Once-Around is quite comparable in purpose to the previously mentioned Chest-Warmer Knot. However, it stands out as a true knot that not only retains warmth more effectively but also lends a touch of elegance with its dimensional aesthetic. This knot imbues your scarf with an effortlessly stylish and somewhat whimsical appeal since its appearance changes subtly each time you tie it.
Achieving this look hinges on tying the knot with just the right tension — not too snug, yet not too loose. The goal is to conceal the V-shaped opening of your coat completely while still managing to smoothly tuck the scarf’s ends inside your coat without creating awkward lumps. A little volume at the neck can be desirable, as it adds a charming three-dimensional quality to your outfit.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for the Knotted Once-Around Scarf Knot
After opening your coat, take your scarf and drape it over your neck.
Just like with the Once-Around Chest Warmer Knot, adjust the length to about one-third on one side and two-thirds on the other.
Loop the long end of the scarf once around your neck, so you end up with two ends of roughly the same length in the front with a loose twist around your neck.
Make sure that the ends of the scarf in front are about the same length.
Tie the ends with a simple half knot. It doesn’t matter if you go left-over-right or right-over left.
Complete the half-knot by passing one end of the scarf through the loop at the neck.
You can tuck the ends of the scarf into your coat or just let them dangle.
Titanic Textures for Timeless Ensembles
The Pull-Through Scarf Knot
This knot can seem imposing at first because of its unusual looped portion, but once you get the hang of it, the Pull-Through Knot is actually very easy to do. It is relatively uncommon, possibly because of the slight barrier to entry due to relative difficulty, and as such, this knot will always cause you to stand out in a subtle way.
The Pull-Through Scarf Knot will look best when worn with a long coat or overcoat, because it is best to tuck the ends into the outerwear. Otherwise, they can dangle in an unusual way that draws attention away from your face and towards your waist.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for the Pull-Through Knot
After opening your coat, wrap your scarf over your neck.
Adjust the scarf so that one side is one-third of the scarf’s length, and the other side is two-thirds.
Create the loop of a half-knot about halfway down the length of the longer end.
Tighten this knot to create a loop.
Insert the shorter end of the scarf into the loop that you have created.
Pull the knot to tighten and draw the knot in towards your neck. It should be tight enough to sit neatly but not so tight as to be uncomfortable.
You can leave the scarf untucked, but because it is so long, it will likely be distracting to do so.
For a tidy and elegant look, tuck the excess length of your scarf into the front of your coat.
To dangle or to tuck
Scarf Ends
What you end up doing with the ends of your scarf after making your knot will greatly affect the overall look of your ensemble. In general, untucked ends add a certain dramatic charm, but will not be as warm. Tucked-in ends, conversely, improve insulation but reduce the amount of scarf that is exposed. Excessively dangling ends will also have the effect of drawing the viewer’s eyes away from your face.
The Count Scarf Knot
This dashing scarf knot derives its name from the fact that it closely resembles the neckwear favored by aristocrats in days gone by. It is an especially elegant knot that has good coverage to keep you warm while looking unique enough to make a real impact on anyone you meet. It combines the various layers of the scarf in such a way as to ensure a secure hold while also covering up any bunching for a refined overall effect.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for The Count Scarf Knot
Open your coat and hang your scarf from your neck, centered.
Adjust the scarf so that one side is one-third of the scarf’s length, and the other side is two-thirds.
On the longer end of the scarf, make the loop of a half-knot one-fourth to one-third of the way down the length of the scarf’s end.
Tighten the loop and make sure that it is sufficiently close to the end of the scarf.
Insert the short end of the scarf into the loop.
Tighten the scarf so that it sits neatly and comfortably against your neck.
Adjust the knot at the neck so that it appears elegant and well put-together.
Tuck the excess scarf ends into your coat.
Kaleidoscopic Colors and Patterns to Banish Dreary Winters
When selecting a scarf knot, always keep the color and pattern of the scarf itself in mind. A looser knot, or one with considerable coverage around the neck, will expose a larger portion of the scarf itself, putting any complex and beautiful patterns on fuller display.
Fort Belvedere
Reversible Scarf in Burgundy Red and Blue Silk Wool Motifs and Paisley
Fort Belvedere
Reversible Scarf in Dark Green and Red Silk Wool Motif and Check
Fort Belvedere
Double Sided Scarf in Blue Silk Wool Paisley and Plaid
The Modified Four-in-Hand Scarf Knot
As indicated by its name, this knot has been adapted from the necktie Four-in-Hand Knot and a similar knot used with ascots. This knot has a very neat and tidy appearance that makes it look more formal, and it also helps to keep you very warm. The knot is also very stable and secure, so you really can tie it and then forget about it.
The Modified Four-in-Hand Scarf Knot can be styled in three distinct ways to get exactly the right look for your outfit, all of which are covered in the following instructions.
Prefer a video walkthrough?
Steps for the Modified Four-in-Hand Scarf Knot
After hanging your scarf around your neck so that it is centered, adjust the side on your dominant hand so that it is a little longer than the other side, at least a few inches or centimeters. Take the longer end and cross it over the shorter end.
Loop the long end around the shorter end one time, going completely around.
Insert the long end up through the gap between your neck and the knot you created, from the inside out.
Pull the long end through so that it is comfortably tight but not too snug.
Pass the long end through the loop that you have created.
If desired, this scarf knot can be worn without passing the long end through the knot for a more casual look, but note that the scarf can come loose through the day.
For the most dashing and stable variation on this knot, after pulling the long end through the knot, pass it through the gap between the knot and your neck and lay it over the top.
Close your coat and adjust the knot as desired.
Brush up on the original Four-in-Hand Knot
Keeping It Casual
Conclusion
Now that you have learned seven different ways to tie a scarf, we hope that you are ready to test out each and every one to determine which will work best with your style. We are confident that the various knots we have shared with you today will help elevate each and every one of your scarves and add genuine panache and verve to all of your cool and cold weather ensembles.
Which scarf knots are your favorites?
Need some scarves to knot? Check out the Fort Belvedere store!
Outfit Rundown
Raphael assembled this ensemble around the color green. It starts with a checked tweed jacket that has tones of green and, interestingly, patch pockets with flaps, even on the chest. It’s a vintage piece Raphael acquired at a flea market. The shirt is faint yellow and light blue striped from Siniscalchi.
It has double cuffs with an older pair of moonstone cufflinks. He is combining it with a vest in a lovat color in doeskin from Cordings and a necktie from Fort Belvedere in wool challis that is a dark burgundy with a yellowish-orange polka dot. The pants are from Ralph Lauren. They’re made of 100% cotton twill that has a covert look to them.
Raphael’s boots are gray scotch grain leather lined in sheepskin from Heinrich Dinklage. He tied them together with a pair of two-tone gray socks from Fort Belvedere. Raphael’s raglan sleeve overcoat is green with a windowpane pattern that comes from Austria that he also found second-hand. The gloves are olive green touchscreen gloves with yellow-orange accents, and the scarves are all from Fort Belvedere.
Great update.
I use #1, 3 & 4 methods. Not coordinated for the other methods nor like them.
I have always had basic inexpensive scarves in the past but last year I invested in two cashmere scarves, one light weight and the other heavy weight from Begg & Company. Great scarves.
A gentleman does not wear second hand clothing. A gentleman finds the very idea repulsive.