I will forever proclaim that fall is the best time to get dressed. Fight me on it! After a summer of dressing in rags, fall reignites a creativity but also a seriousness in putting clothes together. Basically, the daydream is over, and now it’s time to get back to business and get into all of the autumnal colors that look incredible with sun-kissed skin. The outfit combinations are limitless (bare legs in skirt with a sweater, jeans and a light trench, just a sweater dress with a tall boot, etc., etc.) and basically every type of footwear is game. However, a fall outfit without a scarf is like—did you even dress for fall at all?!
Below, I try on several cool-weather scarf staples and super easy outfit ideas for each. And the real kicker is this: They will all look just as good with jeans as they do with leggings, sweats and flats, 'cause let’s not kid ourselves, we’re still in a pandemic, people. Let's keep it simple. Now, onward to the scarves you need now!
The Puffer Scarf
When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously.
I immediately gravitated to this super long quilted nylon number from Daily Paper. This isn’t the first puffer scarf I’ve tried, and I can guarantee it won’t be the last. The scarf is basically a cooler version of a puffer vest. It offers the same kind of coverage on both sides of the body, plus covers your neck. I would highly recommend this on a cooler day for that reason. I took down the sportiness of the scarf with my go-to tweed blazer and a graphic tee.
The Classic Plaid Scarf
It doesn’t get more “autumnal” than a classic Burberry scarf. I opted for one in a more tonal colorway, but paired it with a trench nonetheless. I’ve never tried a belted scarf look but thought, well, shit, it’s 2020, I have nothing to lose. And was I ever right! I immediately caught a Kate Middleton vibe, so I’d recommend adding a little edge to the look. A studded belt or a pair of creepers could play into a more of a rebellious Brit angle.
The Snazzy Neckerchief
A silk bandana with extra glam details, like the beads on this Tory Burch one, is a fresher answer to the statement necklace. Paired with a military shirt dress, it feels a little cooler and more casual since it already has a lot of jazz.
The Knit Poncho
Okay, I know what you’re thinking—a poncho? C’mon lady. I know, but hear me out. This Missoni one veers a little less “kooky art teacher” and I like the hood. To play off the rainbow stripes, I paired it with a nautical Saint James sweater that I thought would be quirky but somehow grounds the look. Not for nothing, a neutral sweater or turtleneck would also look great with this too, if that’s better for your comfort zone.
The Oversized Neutral Scarf
Monochrome dressing is the easiest way to look pulled together. The only effort required is to find the right tones in your wardrobe. This taupe looks great with camel and I liked that the texture of this faux-leather shirt pops the contrast of the wool scarf ever so slightly.
The Large Silk Scarf
Now, silk scarves can be a little tricky to maneuver without feeling a little grand-ma-ma but I like a large one simply tied leaving some room for it to drape. I liked the juxtaposition of an elegant printed silk with a graphic vintage sweatshirt, bringing it down just a smidge more casual. I’m picking up a fancy mom at “Parent’s Day” on campus vibe, which I’m not mad at!
Stay In The Know
Marie Claire email subscribers get intel on fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more. Sign up here.
Julia Gall is the former Style Director at Marie Claire, covering all things fashion, as well as styling tips, wardrobe upkeep and sustainability. Check her out at @juliasgall.
-
Kelly Clarkson Claims Her Ex-Husband Owes Her Even More Money After He Allegedly "Violated Labor Laws" as Her Manager
The "Stronger" star was already awarded $2.6 million in a previous lawsuit.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Robert Downey Jr. Discusses the Highs and Lows of His Career After Oscar Win
"I think if you develop a moral psychology, things are a lot easier."
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Anne Hathaway Steals the Show at SXSW Movie Premiere in a Sparkling Mini Dress
The 'Les Míserables' star's red carpet look featured geometric highlights.
By Danielle Campoamor Published
-
Meet the Designers Keeping the Art of Craftsmanship Alive
In today's murky fashion landscape of discourse and 'cores, to be a revolutionary is to tune out the chatter and focus on your design. Here, a vanguard group of designers who prioritize their skills above all else.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Exclusive: Rothy’s Designs Its First Wedge Sandal
The footwear brand just released its first wedge sandal.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Hailey Bieber's Spring Jacket Streak Includes Two Must-Have Trends
The Rhode mogul re-wore two understated pieces that are ruling street style.
By India Roby Published
-
The Street Style Trends to Inspire Your Spring 2024 Wardrobe
We've scoured the sidewalks for the most inspiring outfits to emulate this season.
By Emma Childs Published
-
6 Outfit Ideas From Paris Fashion Week Street Style Worth Trying This Spring
They're worth copying ASAP.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Sherri McMullen Is the Oakland Boutique Owner Redefining Retail
From mentoring emerging brands to spotting the next big designer, we chat with the entrepreneur about everything from TikTok trends to the current state of the industry.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Colorful Cowboys and Celebs Galore: Pharrell William's Latest for Louis Vuitton Men's
A special shoutout goes to Williams' revamped Speedy bags.
By India Roby Published
-
This Under-the-Radar Jacket on Amazon Is My Newest Winter Obsession
And, no, it's not the "Amazon coat."
By Jaimie Potters Published