How to Wear a Blanket Scarf
What’s that, a chill in the air? Time to start thinking about your cold-weather wardrobe. Sure, you could try the same layers you’ve been wrapping up in every year, but why not try something different, something with more oomph, this winter? If you’re looking for an out-of-the-box winter accessory that ticks both the style and cozy boxes, look no further than the blanket scarf, an oh-so-versatile accessory that bundles up everything you need into the choicest of packages. It’s just the right amount of cozy with just the right dash of fashion-forward style. With a blanket scarf, you can twist and wrap it in so many different ways, you’ll be prepared for even the chilliest of days while still looking elegant and polished.
Maybe you already have a treasure trove of scarves in your closet, but we’re telling you, the blanket scarf deserves a spot in your fashion rotation. Whether you find yourself in a style rut or you just need something new to up your accessory game, it could be for you. Let’s explore this go-with-anything fashion accessory in more detail!
What is a Blanket Scarf?
What is a blanket scarf, you ask? It’s simple. It's is an oversized, rectangular scarf that’s big enough to use as a blanket. The material used is also similar to or reminiscent of, you got it, a blanket! Styling with a blanket scarf means keeping your sense of touch in mind when you’re getting dressed in the morning. These scarves don’t skimp on that soft, buttery fabric we all love about our favorite blankets — they have it in droves. Blanket scarves are also very versatile. Choose one with a check, window box, or plaid pattern so you're ready for any fall or winter look. You can also style a blanket scarf in several different ways and be ready for any occasion, from Friday night football games to blustery hot cocoa runs to not-quite-spring trips to the park or botanical gardens.
Different Ways to Style a Blanket Scarf and How to Tie It
Now that we've covered what to look for in a blanket scarf, you'll want to know all the different ways you can style and tie them. Maybe you’re even ready to dive in and try adding a blanket scarf to your winter wardrobe rotation, but where should you begin? There are so many different ways to style it, tie it, drape it, and layer it that your head might start to spin. The great news is that even if there are several ways to style them, each method is fast and simple — no complicated loop-de-loops or knots here! You’ll be out the door on your next adventure in no time.
To try out this new accessory, head to your closet or full-length mirror, and start to play around with your blanket scarf. Make sure to try a few different wrapping techniques before you settle on the perfect one that looks cute with your outfit. Before you get started, however, we recommend that you snuggle up in your favorite wintry outfit, like a form-fitting women's sweater and hip-hugging skinny jeans as a base layer. Turn on your favorite tunes, and you’ll be all set up to start having fun with our expert styling tips.
The Loop
The loop, also known as the slip knot, is a classic style, perfect for running out the door without worrying about that chill in the air. Simply fold the scarf in half lengthwise to form a loop at one end. Then place the scarf around your neck with the loop on one side and the two ends on the other side. Then, thread the ends through the loop like a needle and tug to your desired tightness. Grab a blanket scarf in a bold color like red or teal and try the loop under a denim jacket to add a pop of color and coziness to your outfit.
The Bandana or Kerchief
This popular style, called the bandana or kerchief, works well layered under a light jacket or over a women's cotton sweatshirt. It’s easy to achieve this classic look. Fold your scarf diagonally into a triangle and wrap it around your neck with the point in the front. You can tuck in the ends or leave them loose depending on your preference.
The Three-Point Wrap
Also called the three-point triangle, the three-point wrap is one of the most popular blanket scarf styles. Follow the same steps as the bandana, but just roll the triangle a few times to shorten it before wrapping around your neck. Let the ends hang loose on each side of your neck. This blanket scarf style adds a cozy flair to any fall or winter look from straight jeans and a striped tee to an oversized cardigan and leggings. The three-point wrap works especially well with plaid scarves. Try a color that complements your favorite sweater and add dangly earrings to draw all the attention to your décolletage.
The Shawl or the Cape
These two looks work great on those days when you don’t quite need a coat but you’re still a little too chilly to step outside in just your sweater. First, fold the scarf in half diagonally to form a triangle. Drape the middle over your shoulders and let the ends hang loose down your front. If you stop here, you have a great shawl style going on. To achieve the cape look, tie a loose knot in the front. Layer it over a women's wool sweater for a super cozy outfit. The shawl or cape is also a great solution when you’re stuck at your desk and just need to add an extra layer. Even if you’re working from home, it’ll drape perfectly over your comfy loungewear.
The Poncho
To achieve this fun style, follow the steps for the shawl and then add a thick belt and tuck the ends through the belt, and voila, you have a poncho. This style works best with form-fitting clothing like skinny jeans and a cardigan or flannel shirt. To take it up a notch, you can pay homage to this style’s western roots. Try a striped or red blanket scarf, blue jeans, a floppy felt hat, and cowboy boots.
Belted Under a Coat
This look takes the poncho one step further. Once you’ve draped the scarf over your shoulders and added a thick belt, you’ll want to layer on your favorite women's wool coat for a preppy and polished look. We love this style with a complementary scarf and coat combo, like an emerald green scarf with a gray coat or a red scarf with a camel coat. Don’t forget to balance out the outfit with a pair of calf- or knee-high leather boots. Add some drama with a heel, a pair of pearl earrings, and a sparkly bracelet.
Blanket Scarf as a Cardigan
Yes, you can wear your blanket scarf as a top! To pull this off, just follow the directions for the shawl style. Instead of folding the scarf in half diagonally, fold it in half lengthwise to make a long rectangle. Then, drape the scarf over your shoulders and let the ends hang loose or secure them with a belt. Pair your makeshift cardigan with a form-fitting turtleneck in Pima cotton or merino wool to keep it cozy. Have fun with texture by slipping into a pair of faux leather leggings, and top off your outfit with some faux fur like a hat or boots. You’ll fit right in at your next après-ski drinks or ice skating outing.
Wrapped and Draped
The wrapped and draped style is all about being casual and a little bit bohemian. Open the scarf up to its full size and wrap it around your shoulders and arms. The oversized scarf will drape across your curves and contours in all the right places. This style pairs wonderfully with comfy leggings and a neutral turtleneck or crisp, white button-down shirt. Throw on a long gemstone necklace, and if you want to show off your curves, just add a belt! If you want to lean into the bohemian look, try adding a silk scarf as a headband or tied around a leather hobo bag.
Blanket Scarf as a Skirt
This one is for you daring fashionistas out there. If you’ve ever wondered if you can wear a blanket scarf as a skirt, the answer is a resounding yes! Simply tie the scarf around your waist like a sarong, with the knot snugly off to one side on your hip. Layer the makeshift mini skirt over cable-knit tights, leather booties, and a tucked cashmere turtleneck sweater for a cozy-cute outfit.
Which blanket scarf technique will you choose for your next chilly adventure? The classic loop, the trendy three-point wrap, or even the daring blanket scarf turned skirt? Why stop there? The great part about this accessory is there truly is never just one way to wear it. It’s all about mixing and matching your outfit to your favorite styles of wrapping, draping, looping, or tying. It’s time to throw on your favorite comfy duds and get to work bringing these scarf stylings to your everyday wardrobe. You’ll love the drama of an oversized scarf paired with the comfiness of a blanket all wrapped up into one killer accessory. Once you start experimenting with this cozy accessory, you’ll wonder what you ever did without one (or two, or three!) in your closet.