Just for all of you readers out there, I decided to do something that seems a little bit crazy. I counted all of the neck scarves in my various collections - keep in mind, I only counted the ones that I’ve actually worn in the past year. Why you ask? Just so I could get a bead on why some people, like myself, always utilize this style warrior while others give it the cold shoulder, literally. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, but why wouldn’t you want to wear one?  With the temperatures dipping and winter setting upon us in the blink of an eye, many of us have already worn our cashmere, wool, or other cozy knit scarves this season. Nothing wards off the chill better than a nice warm scarf. But, is that really all they’re good for? Practicality should always be a consideration when purchasing anything, but I feel scarves occupy a realm that’s unique in the fashion world.  Scarves of every variety are worn all year round in lots of different ways, shapes and forms. Quite simply they’re the easiest way to jazz up any outfit in a flash. They can add those all-important elements such as texture, color, and pattern that really define our personality and showcase our style preferences.  Let’s take a look at scarf history and explore the ways to wear one of the hardest working accessories in the archives of the fashion business …

Historians believe that scarves were first utilized as far back as Roman times. Men wore them around their necks or tied onto their garments as a way to keep them clean and sweat free. Women followed suit, naturally, albeit for both health and religious reasons. Thus a constant staple of the wardrobe was born. These pieces of fabric became a bona fide fashion statement for both men and women in the latter part of the 19^th century. Scarves blossomed into the 20^th century and beyond as retailers broadened their appeal with colorful prints, textiles, and patterns that became all the rage to a broad spectrum of the population.

Today scarves are the great equalizer in fashion. Celebrities and regular people alike tie one on regularly. The lightweight cotton scarf that has a slightly ethnic look has proven that sometimes trendy can become a classic. Fringed or not, bright and bold, conservative and classy, all work wonders for the average guy or gal. Most scarves worn today are of the long rectangular variety, as they lend themselves to many types of knotting. 

Some people do a simple drape once around the neck with the ends dangling.  Some do a loose twice around with a small knot. I learned a new way to tie my scarves when I was in New York City recently for business. This is what has come to be known as the “New York Pretzel.” First, fold scarf in half and drape around neck.  Take one of the loose ends and pull through the “loop” on the other side. Now take the loose end you have left and make sure you pull it through the loop going in the opposite direction of the first one. It will either be on top or behind the first end you pulled through. And that’s it! Pull it up and around and fluff it here and there and you’ll have one of the latest looks to hit the streets in a long time. This will work well for all sorts of scarves including thicker winter knits as well. 

At the Goodwill Store & Donation Center nearby, you’ll find lots of scarves for sale in a rainbow of colors and textures. Whether you’re looking for something silky and dressy, or warm and fuzzy, you can’t go wrong at our favorite store!  You’ll be amazed at how something so simple can revive tired coats, sweaters, blouses and dresses for just a fraction of what you would spend at other retail stores. And, as for how many scarves I own: I have 10 winter scarves and seven cotton/rayon-type scarves. How about you?