How to Tie a Scarf

Tying Scarves Correctly Can Make Every Outfit a Fashion Statement

© Marcy Paulson

Dec 18, 2008
Tying a Scarf with a European Loop, Photo by Jeff Paulson
Five quick and easy ways for keeping a scarf in place.

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Long is in when it comes to scarves. Here are four quick and simple ways to tie a long scarf. This trendy look is one of the most affordable ways to accessorize a wardrobe in any season.

To prepare a square scarf for tying, women can fold the scarf along the bias to create a triangle. They can then begin loosely rolling the long side of the triangle toward the point.

The European Loop

There’s a quick and casual way to put on a scarf without even tying a knot. This look works well with any outfit and can be used to secure thin silk as well as heavier winter scarves.

  1. Fold scarf in half lengthwise.
  2. Drape the folded scarf around the neck so two loose ends hang down on one side and the fold on the other.
  3. Bring the two loose ends through the loop created by the fold.
  4. Use ends to pull the scarf to a desired tightness.
  5. Wear ends hanging to the side or in the middle.

Tying Scarves with a Simple Knot

There’s a variation on the European Loop that’s just about as simple. This tie creates a fashionable criss-cross knot that looks great with any outfit.

  1. Fold scarf in half lengthwise.
  2. Drape the folded scarf around the neck so two loose ends hang down on one side and the fold on the other.
  3. Bring one loose end through the loop created by the fold.
  4. Bring the other loose end over and then through the opposite side of the loop.
  5. Use ends to adjust the scarf until the knot hangs at the desired length.
  6. Wear ends hanging to the side or in the middle.

Tying Scarves with Slip Knots

There are two slip knots that are quick and fashionable ways to secure a scarf. Both can dress up a collared shirt or lend some extra flare to a casual crewneck.

  1. Drape the scarf around the neck with one end longer than the other.
  2. Wrap the long end in front and behind the short end twice.
  3. Bring the long end up through the gap between the scarf and neck toward the chin.
  4. Then, pass the long end down through the loop on the very front of the knot so it hangs directly in front of the short end.
  5. Use ends to adjust the scarf until the knot hangs at the desired length.
  6. Wear ends hanging to the side or in the middle.

Finally, here’s one more slip knot that’s even simpler than the first.

  1. Drape the scarf around the neck with one end longer than the other.
  2. Tie a loose half knot in the long end.
  3. Pull the short end through the loop of the half knot.
  4. Use the ends to adjust the scarf until the knot hangs at the desired length.
  5. Wear ends hanging to the side or in the middle.

A long scarf is incredibly versatile. What other accessory could completely change the look of an old or drab outfit in a matter of seconds? And, believe it or not, these four ways to tie a scarf are just the beginning. Scarves can be worn in the hair, over the shoulders, and dressed up with pins or necklaces.


The copyright of the article How to Tie a Scarf in Hats/Scarves is owned by Marcy Paulson. Permission to republish How to Tie a Scarf in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.


Tying a Scarf with a European Loop, Photo by Jeff Paulson
Tie a Scarf with Variation to European Loop, Photo by Jeff Paulson
Tie a Scarf with First Slip Knot, Photo by Jeff Paulson
Tying a Scarf with First Slip Knot Worn to Side, Photo by Jeff Paulson
Tying a Scarf with Second Slip Knot, Photo by Jeff Paulson


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