Hey Now, You're an All Scarf

Somebody once told me winter was gonna roll me; I didn’t think Berkeley could get so cold. I was looking kind of dumb with my friends feeling so warm, with their scarves wrapped around each of their necks. Well, the cold starts coming and it doesn’t stop coming. Had to keep warm so I got a scarf for me. So much to style, so little time. So what’s wrong with using accessories? You’ll understand if you wear one; your closet’s gonna be overrun.

(Please read to the theme of All Star)

All Star jokes aside, read on to see how to style scarves and stay cozy when the weather gets colder.

The Basic

We introduce you to scarves through a classic: the basic scarf. Plain in color, pattern and length, they make an easy starter to scarves. It’s the perfect piece to tell all your friends that, hey (now), I know fashion! I’m accessorizing. Since scarves are just a side note to the outfit, solid colors are very easy to style just by matching colors.

In some outfits, you can use a scarf to bring the style down in intensity. A black leather jacket might feel a bit too edgy for your soft self, but layering a dusty pink scarf over it helps make the entire outfit feel more casual.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more chic look, pick a thinner scarf and keep it in a tight loop. This looks great with an off-the-shoulder top and your best mom jeans. You can find scarves like these at almost any clothing store; just a walk down Bancroft will bring you to stores like Urban Outfitters where you can pick one up on the fly.

Plaid and Preppy

While the West Coast is undoubtedly the best coast (like having the number one public university in the world! Go Bears!!), we have to hand it to those Ivy Leagues: the preppy look of the plaid scarf is a classic that looks good on everyone.

Plaid scarves can be put into a loop just like a plain scarf, but they look just as good draped over the shoulders. The Burberry scarf is classically paired with a camel coat and a black shirt. To heighten the look, try adding accessories like a classy watch or a few rings.

While you could buy an actual Burberry scarf, do you really have the money to do that after the opening of Gong Cha and Bonchon or with Sliver now even closer on Telegraph? Look to places like Macy’s or Amazon (online is your best friend when it comes to buying dupes) instead, and your wallet (and stomach) will be thanking you later.

The Blanket Scarf

Anyone who has had a lecture in Dwinelle knows that rooms 145 and 155 are far too cozy for their own good. While Garb does not encourage sleeping through lecture, we do encourage wearing the blanket scarf (which may lead to sleeping through lecture...but I digress).

The blanket scarf makes an amazing addition to any wardrobe because of its versatility and comfort. These scarves can easily be thrown over the shoulders or folded over into the classic V shape.

To avoid looking like you just rolled into class in your pajamas or have been swallowed alive by your scarf, try pairing it with more form fitting or structured clothes, and with nothing too flashy underneath. A pair of suede over-the-knee boots and a simple black or white turtleneck make perfect matches for a blanket scarf. You can find blanket scarves here and here.

Printed Silk

And finally, for the fashion forward, the printed silk scarf, specifically the Hermes scarf, has made its entrance into the fashion scene recently. These scarves are oftentimes thinner and are a great choice for those days that just aren’t chilly enough for a knit sweater. Plus, they make an outfit pop. Their flashy patterns may make them intimidating to style, but don’t be afraid. After all, if Rihanna can rock it, then so can you!

These scarves are the opposite of slouchy, so make sure the outfit you’re pairing them with is sharp. Stark whites and blacks tend to look the best with them, because the neutral tones will let your scarf pattern really pop.  Feel free to experiment with the tying style and use the above images as examples. These scarves can be found on both the high end or low end.

There are endless patterns and styles of scarves you can choose from, so you’re bound to find one or two that you’ll love! You never know what style you might end up loving. And if all else fails, just head over to the Student Store and make Oski proud.

Words By Elizabeth Lemons