Fewer pieces, better chosen.Quick answer, Madame: the easiest way to tie a scarf is the single loop: drape it around your neck and wrap one end across. For a polished look, try the Parisian knot or the classic knot. Here are 10 ways to tie a scarf around your neck, each shown step by step.
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A scarf is the easiest way to make a winter coat look elegant, and the way you tie it matters as much as the scarf. Learning how to tie a scarf takes a few minutes, and after that you will never wonder what to do with it again.
In this guide I show you how to tie a scarf in 10 ways, with photos for every step. Start with the easy ones and move on to the more elegant knots. At the end you will find how to wear a scarf with a coat, the mistakes to avoid and the scarves I would buy. For more winter ideas, see my Christmas outfits for women and Thanksgiving outfits.
In this guide
Jump to your knot:
Easiest: Single loop · Classic knot · Over the shoulder
Warmest: Twisted loop · Double wrap cowl · Blanket scarf wrap
Most elegant: Parisian knot · Tuck-in · Ascot · Neck bow
Which Scarf Should You Use?
The right scarf makes a knot easier, and the wrong one makes it frustrating. Before you learn how to tie a scarf, choose one that suits the knot, because how to tie a scarf well depends on the fabric.
- Rectangular wool or cashmere-blend scarf, about 70 inches long. The most versatile. It works for the single loop, the classic knot, the Parisian knot, the twisted loop, the double wrap, the over-the-shoulder drape and the tuck-in.
- Chunky knit scarf. Warm and soft, but thick. Choose the single loop or the over-the-shoulder drape. It is too bulky for knots.
- Blanket or plaid scarf. Oversized and made to be worn like a shawl. Choose the blanket wrap.
- Silk or satin square scarf, about 35 inches. For the ascot and the neck bow, and for adding color to a blouse or a blazer.
Length matters. For the knots, a long scarf of about 70 inches gives you enough fabric to tie, loop and tuck. A shorter scarf is better for a single loop or a tuck-in. Soft and thin fabrics are the easiest to tie, and stiff or very thick ones are best draped.
How to Fold a Square Scarf
The ascot and the neck bow start with a square scarf folded into a band. This is how to fold a square scarf in three steps.
- Lay the square scarf flat and smooth out the wrinkles.
- Fold it in half from corner to corner to make a triangle.
- Fold the triangle from the long edge toward the point, over and over, until you have a narrow band.
If you want a neck bow, roll the scarf into a thin strip instead. A wide band suits an ascot, and a narrow one suits a bow.
10 Ways to Tie a Scarf, Step by Step
Here is how to tie a scarf in 10 ways, from the easiest to the most elegant. Each photo shows the steps in order. Follow the numbers, and practice each knot once in front of a mirror.
The Single Loop
The single loop is the first way to learn how to tie a scarf, because it takes a few seconds and needs no knot. It is warm, soft and looks effortless with a chunky knit.
You need: a long rectangular wool or knit scarf.
How to tie a scarf with the Single Loop:
- Drape the scarf around your neck with both ends hanging evenly in front.
- Take one end and wrap it once around your neck, across the front.
- Let the end fall over your shoulder or down your back, and adjust the folds so the scarf sits loosely.
Best for: Cold days, thick coats and chunky knits.
Tip: Leave the loop loose. A tight wrap in thick wool looks bulky.
The Classic Knot
The classic knot is the simplest way to tie a scarf around your neck with a little polish. One loose knot at the center turns a plain scarf into a finished detail.
You need: a medium-weight scarf, about 70 inches long.
How to tie a scarf with the Classic Knot:
- Drape the scarf around your neck with both ends even.
- Cross the two ends over each other near the base of your neck.
- Tie the ends once into a loose knot.
- Pull gently to adjust. Let the knot sit at the center of your chest and let the ends hang.
Best for: Work, errands and a tailored coat.
Tip: Choose a scarf that is not too thick. A thin wool or a cashmere blend makes a neater knot.
The Parisian Knot (European Loop)
The Parisian knot is the best-known way to put on a scarf with French elegance. It sits flat, it stays in place and it looks good under a trench or a blazer.
You need: a long, soft scarf.
How to tie a scarf with the Parisian Knot (European Loop):
- Fold the scarf in half lengthwise, then drape it around your neck so the folded loop is on one side and the two loose ends are on the other.
- Pull the two loose ends through the loop.
- Tighten gently and adjust so the loop sits at your neck and the ends hang straight in front.
Best for: Trench coats, blazers and a neat everyday look.
Tip: Pull the ends through only once. Too many turns make it bulky.
The Twisted Loop
The twisted loop gives a scarf texture and keeps the neck warm without any knot. It is one of the most flattering ways to wear a scarf around your neck.
You need: a long, soft scarf, about 70 inches or more.
How to tie a scarf with the Twisted Loop:
- Drape the scarf around your neck and cross the two ends in front.
- Twist the two ends together into a rope, working from the neck down.
- Bring the twisted ends up and wrap them around the loop at your neck.
- Tuck the ends in, then fluff the folds into a soft cowl.
Best for: Cold weather and v-neck coats.
Tip: Twist in the same direction to keep the rope tight and even.
The Double Wrap Cowl
The double wrap is the coziest way to wear a scarf. It makes a soft cowl that covers the neck and chin, and it needs only a few seconds.
You need: a soft, long scarf in cashmere or a cashmere blend.
How to tie a scarf with the Double Wrap Cowl:
- Place the scarf around your neck with one end hanging longer than the other.
- Wrap the longer end around your neck a second time.
- Fluff the folds into a soft cowl and tuck the ends inside your coat.
Best for: Very cold days and winter walks.
Tip: Use a soft, thin scarf. A thick scarf looks bulky when wrapped twice.
The Over-the-Shoulder Drape
The over-the-shoulder drape is a relaxed, elegant way to put on a scarf. One end falls behind you, and the scarf frames the shoulders like a wrap.
You need: a long, wide scarf.
How to tie a scarf with the Over-the-Shoulder Drape:
- Wrap the scarf once around your neck, leaving both ends in front.
- Throw one end over the opposite shoulder.
- Adjust the drape so the scarf falls softly across your chest.
Best for: Dinners, travel and an elegant coat.
Tip: Let it fall naturally. Do not pull it tight or it will lose its softness.
The Blanket Scarf Wrap
A blanket scarf is made to be worn like a shawl, and this is how to tie a scarf that big without any knots. It is the most comfortable way to wear a plaid.
You need: an oversized blanket or plaid scarf.
How to tie a scarf with the Blanket Scarf Wrap:
- Hold the scarf open, spread wide in both hands.
- Drape it across your shoulders like a shawl.
- Fold the front into a soft cowl, or cross the ends and let them fall.
Best for: Travel, football games and very cold days.
Tip: Wear a plain coat with a patterned blanket scarf, so only one piece has a pattern.
The Ascot
The ascot is a classic, polished way to wear a silk scarf around your neck. Tucked into a blouse or a blazer, it adds color to a work outfit.
You need: a silk or satin square scarf, about 35 inches.
How to tie a scarf with the Ascot:
- Fold the square scarf into a triangle.
- Fold the triangle from the long edge into a band and place it around your neck, with the ends in front.
- Cross the ends in front.
- Tuck the ends into your blouse or blazer and smooth the front.
Best for: Work, blazers and a silk scarf look.
Tip: Tuck the point inside the blouse so the scarf stays in place all day.
The Neck Bow
The neck bow is the prettiest way to wear a silk scarf. It looks romantic with a blouse and a camel coat, and it works with any neckline that has a collar.
You need: a silk or satin square scarf.
How to tie a scarf with the Neck Bow:
- Fold the square scarf into a narrow band, or roll it into a thin strip.
- Drape the band around your neck with the ends hanging evenly.
- Tie a bow, as you would tie a shoelace.
- Fluff the loops and straighten the tails.
Best for: Blouses, dinners and a feminine look.
Tip: A satin or silk with some body ties a better bow than a very thin fabric.
The Tuck-In
The tuck-in is the neatest way to wear a scarf with a coat. It keeps the chest warm and keeps the lines of the coat clean, and it is how to tie a scarf when you do not want any bulk.
You need: a thin to medium scarf.
How to tie a scarf with the Tuck-In:
- Drape the scarf with both ends hanging in front.
- Cross the ends over each other.
- Tuck the ends inside your coat, under the lapels, so only a little shows at the neck.
Best for: Tailored coats, trench coats and the office.
Tip: Choose a thin scarf. A thick scarf makes the coat gape.
How to Wear a Scarf With a Coat
A scarf is an accessory, and a good one makes the coat look finished. These three outfits show how to wear a scarf with different coats. All of them use the same color, so you can see how the coat changes the look.
A camel coat
Burgundy on camel is the classic combination. A loose drape with fringe is warm and elegant, and the color gives the neutral coat some life.
A black coat
A black coat and a burgundy scarf look sharp. A classic knot at the center of the chest keeps the line clean and adds a focal point.
A patterned coat
When the coat has a pattern, choose a solid scarf. A long, simple drape lets the coat be the statement. Keep only one pattern in the outfit.
| If your coat is | Choose a scarf in | Best knot |
|---|---|---|
| Camel | Burgundy, ivory, gray or forest green | Parisian knot or a loose drape |
| Black | Burgundy, camel, ivory or plaid | Classic knot or double wrap |
| Gray | Burgundy, camel or navy | Single loop or twisted loop |
| Navy | Camel, ivory or burgundy | Parisian knot or tuck-in |
| Brown | Cream, plaid or rust | Blanket wrap or over the shoulder |
| Patterned | A solid color in a shade from the pattern | Long drape or tuck-in |
For a closet that works with every scarf, see my Old Money capsule wardrobe and closet clean out guides.
Scarf Mistakes to Avoid
- Using the wrong scarf for the knot. A very thick scarf looks bulky in a knot, and a very thin one slips.
- Pulling it too tight. A scarf should frame the neck, not choke it.
- Wearing too many layers. A thick scarf, a thick collar and a thick coat look heavy. Choose one focus.
- Mixing patterns. A plaid scarf with a patterned coat competes. Choose a solid.
- Forgetting the color. A scarf in a color you love near your face makes the look. Choose a shade that suits your skin.
- Not practicing. Try each knot once at home, and you will do it in seconds on a cold morning.
The Scarves I Would Buy
These are the scarves I would choose for the knots in this guide. I picked the type of scarf that suits each knot, so you can start with one or two.
Camel Cashmere-Blend Wrap Scarf
Why it is a good choice: A large, soft wrap in camel that works as a scarf, a shawl or a blanket for travel.
How to choose it: Look for a soft, extra-long scarf, about 87 inches, which gives you room for the Parisian knot, the double wrap and the over-the-shoulder drape.
Budget to aim for: $50 to $60. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Ivory Merino Wool Scarf with a Cashmere Feel
Why it is a good choice: Ivory goes with every coat and looks soft near the face, so it is the easiest scarf to wear again and again.
How to choose it: Choose merino wool that is soft against the skin, so you can wrap it twice without itching.
Budget to aim for: $40 to $50. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Burgundy Merino Wool Scarf
Why it is a good choice: Burgundy is the shade I used in most of the photos. It looks good with camel, black, gray and navy coats.
How to choose it: A medium weight is the best for the classic knot, the Parisian knot and the tuck-in.
Budget to aim for: $40 to $50. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Oversized Plaid Blanket Scarf
Why it is a good choice: A big plaid scarf is the coziest thing you can wear on a cold day, and it is made to be worn like a shawl.
How to choose it: Choose a soft, warm acrylic or wool blend with tassels, and wear it with a plain coat.
Budget to aim for: under $20. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Long Rectangular Scarf, 70 Inches
Why it is a good choice: A long scarf in a solid color is the most useful kind. It is long enough for every knot in this guide.
How to choose it: Look for a length of about 70 inches and a soft weight that does not feel stiff.
Budget to aim for: under $20. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Mulberry Silk Square Scarf, 35 Inches
Why it is a good choice: A silk square is the one you need for the ascot and the neck bow. It adds color to a blazer or a blouse.
How to choose it: Choose a size of about 35 inches, which is big enough to fold into a band and tie a bow.
Budget to aim for: $20 to $30. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Satin Square Scarf
Why it is a good choice: A satin square is an easy, low-cost way to try the ascot and the neck bow before you buy a silk one.
How to choose it: Choose a satin with some body in a color that goes with your coats.
Budget to aim for: under $10. Prices change, so check before you buy.
Keep reading
- A scarf makes a lovely gift: see my stocking stuffers for women under $35 and Christmas gifts for wife.
- Planning winter looks? See Christmas outfits for women and Thanksgiving outfits for women.
- Choosing a dress to wear under your coat? See holiday party dresses and cocktail attire for women.
- Heading to a holiday dinner? See little black dress ideas with sleeves.
- Build a closet around pieces like these: Old Money capsule wardrobe and closet clean out.
- Pair a scarf with a knit dress: see 33 sweater dress outfits to wear it with.
What else should you wear with your scarf?
A scarf finishes a look, but you still need the look. My ebook, 222 Looks with 28 Pieces, gives you 222 everyday outfits in the Old Money style, built from just 28 pieces, so you always know what to wear.
How to Tie a Scarf FAQ
What is the easiest way to tie a scarf?
The easiest way to tie a scarf is the single loop: drape the scarf around your neck with both ends in front, then wrap one end once around your neck. It needs no knot.
How do I tie a scarf around my neck for beginners?
If you are learning how to tie a scarf, start with the single loop or the classic knot. Drape the scarf with both ends even, cross the ends once and tie a loose knot. Then try the Parisian knot.
What is the Parisian knot?
The Parisian knot, or European loop, is a way to tie a scarf by folding it in half, draping it around your neck and pulling the two loose ends through the loop. It sits flat and looks neat under a coat.
How do I wrap a scarf so it does not fall off?
Choose a soft scarf and use a knot or a tuck-in. The classic knot, the Parisian knot and the tuck-in all keep a scarf in place. You can also tuck the ends inside your coat.
How long should a scarf be?
A rectangular scarf of about 70 inches is the most useful, because it is long enough for the knots, the loops and the wraps. A shorter scarf works for a single loop or a tuck-in.
How do I tie a silk square scarf?
Here is how to tie a scarf made of silk: fold the square into a triangle and then into a band. Tie it into an ascot, tucked into a blouse, or tie a bow at the neck. See the steps for the ascot and the neck bow above.
How do I wear a thick scarf without looking bulky?
Use the single loop or the over-the-shoulder drape, and wear a coat without a big collar. Avoid knots and double wraps in a very thick scarf.
What scarf goes with a camel coat?
Burgundy, ivory, gray, forest green and navy all look good with a camel coat. A plaid scarf also works if the coat is plain.
One last thing before you step out
Now you know how to tie a scarf in 10 ways, from the single loop to the ascot. Choose the one that suits your coat and your day, practice it once and let the scarf do the rest. The best scarf look is the one you can do in a few seconds without thinking.
Send this guide to the friend who always asks how you tie your scarf.
Updated November 3, 2026. Prices, colors and availability change often, so check the current price on Amazon before you buy. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
