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How to Tie a Scarf: Five Simple Styles

A scarf can be worn a dozen different ways with the same piece of fabric. Here are five reliable styles, from fastest to most polished.

The simple loop

Fold the scarf in half lengthwise to form a loop at one end. Drape it around your neck with the loop on one side, then pull the two loose ends through the loop and tighten to the comfort level you want. This is the fastest method and works with almost any scarf length.

The once-around

Drape the scarf around your neck so one side hangs noticeably longer than the other. Wrap the longer end once around your neck, then let both ends hang down naturally. Good for long, lightweight scarves and colder weather, since it adds an extra layer around the neck.

The European knot

Fold the scarf in half to form a loop, place it around your neck with the loop hanging on one side, then feed the two ends through the loop and pull them fully through and down, rather than just partway. This creates a tighter, tidier knot than the simple loop.

Ascot style

Drape the scarf around your neck with both ends roughly even at the front, then cross one end over the other and tuck the top end behind the wrap, letting it fall neatly inside your collar or jacket. Reads as slightly more formal than the loop styles.

Draped (shawl) style

Simply drape the scarf over both shoulders with the ends hanging evenly down the front, unknotted. Works best with larger, lighter scarves and pairs well with an open coat or jacket rather than being worn alone.

Fabric weight changes which styles work

A thick wool scarf holds a loose drape well but can look bulky in a tight knot, while a thin, lightweight scarf ties into small knots easily but may not hold a loose drape as neatly. Matching the style to the fabric usually looks more intentional than forcing a single style onto every scarf you own.

These styles are not gender-specific

All five of these methods are commonly worn by anyone, regardless of gender β€” the split between "menswear" and "womenswear" scarf styling is mostly about fabric pattern and color choice, not the knot itself.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which style is warmest?

The once-around method, since wrapping the scarf around the neck an extra time adds another layer of fabric directly against the skin, trapping more warmth than a single loop or an open drape.

Do I need a long scarf for all of these?

No. The simple loop and European knot both work well with shorter scarves, while the once-around and draped styles generally need a longer scarf to look intentional rather than stretched thin.