4 Ways to Wear a Blanket Scarf To Look Cozy and Chic All Season Long
Elevate any outfit and stay warm with this affordable blanket-scarf fusion
When there’s a chill in the air, sometimes we wish we could wrap ourselves up in a blanket and walk out of the house like that. Well, you can get that cozy, warm effect and still look fashionable with a blanket scarf. These oversize scarves are everywhere this season, but it’s possible you’re unsure why you need one or how to style it. So we turned to celebrity stylist Dawn Del Russo for her expert advice on how to wear a blanket scarf and all the reasons on why you should add one to your wardrobe.
What is a blanket scarf?
“A blanket scarf is a cozy, soft, oversized scarf, usually square or long rectangular shape,” explains Del Russo. “The fabric is typically wool, boucle, fleece or luxurious cashmere.” They are typically not too thick, since they are so large, the scarf’s size creates layers once it’s wrapped, so it can get away with being on the thinner side. That said, despite the thickness, the material of the blanket scarf will ensure you are warm and cozy.
What’s the difference between a blanket scarf and regular scarf?
A “regular” scarf is usually much smaller than a blanket scarf — they are typically skinny, thin rectangular shapes, and don’t create much volume and texture to an outfit. Also, there are limited ways to wear a regular scarf because of its size, but that’s not the case with blanket scarves (more on this below).
Why you should try out a blanket scarf
Blanket scarves didn’t become a trend until the last decade. But once they did start rising in popularity and more women tried them out, they realized how beneficial they really are. “They became more popular for their practicality and wanting to stay super warm and covered during cold months,” says Del Russo. “When we are wrapped up in a blanket, we don’t want to take it off — this made that transition almost seamless.”
In addition to its warmth and comfort, there are endless ways to style them. They can tone down or amp up a plain or not cold weather-friendly outfit effortlessly. “They are also very versatile which makes them a great addition to an outfit. This style can be dressed up or dressed down and become part of the entire look,” attests Del Russo.
Related: The 10 Most Comfortable and Stylish Looks for Lounging Around the House
How to wear a blanket scarf
Now that you know why you should try out the cozy trend, it’s time to learn how to style them. They can be confusing to figure out at first, but don’t be discouraged — just watch the video from @TheDIYDesigner on YouTuber for how to wrap a blanket scarf 15 different ways! Then, read on for 4 ways to wear a blanket scarf that will help you make a stunning statement with the accessory.
1. How to wear a blanket scarf: Tucked into a coat
If you want to add a cute accessory to a plain coat — and add some extra warmth — simply toss on a blanket scarf with a wool topper or a trench coat you already have in your closet. Del Russo agrees, saying it’s the perfect last layer to finish off an outfit you need a trench coat for.
To wrap the scarf Del Russ advised starting “with the middle of the scarf in front around the neck and pull the ends to the front to drape it.” Then, tie the ends together to bring the point more in the center, and then slightly pull at the middle of scarf to give it more volume. Tuck the ends into your trench, and you’re good to go! This wrapped look also keeps the focus on the face to detract from any trouble spots along the lower body.
Shop the look:
Tan plaid blanket scarf: Buy from Amazon, $13.05
Tan trench coat: Buy from Amazon, $55.97
Black booties: Buy from Macy’s, $49.99
Fuzzy, black ear muffs: Buy from Zara, $12.90
Black mittens: Buy from JCPenney, $8.99
2. How to wear a blanket scarf: As a shawl
One of the easiest ways to wear a blanket scarf is to drape it over your shoulders. There’s no complicated tying or tucking with this look, and it can even serve as a type of shawl.
To do: Simply wrap around shoulders and back of neck, making sure to not scrunch it up or bunch it at the neck — just let it hang down. This will create natural space for your arms and mobility.
Bonus: “One way I love to style [a blanket scarf] is like a cape top, folded in half over the shoulders and belt at the waist with denim,” says Del Russo. The belt will cinch the middle to keep the shawl-like scarf from masking feminine curves.
Shop the look:
Plaid blanket scarf shawl: Buy from Amazon, $27.99
Black long sleeve top: Buy from Land’s End, $17.97
Black flare jeans: Buy from Express, $14.97
Red booties: Buy from DSW, $64.99
Red belt: Buy from Amazon, $9.25
3. How to wear a blanket scarf: Create a pop of color paired with basics
When wearing an otherwise plain outfit like a white top and jeans, tossing on a colorful blanket scarf is an effortless way to take the look up a few notches. “Wear a colored blanket scarf when you are matching an outfit or wanting to be more understated in a neutral,” says Del Russo. A scarf in a multicolor plaid print does just that and can work with a number of items in your closet.
To create a handkerchief look like the scarf above, fold the scarf into a triangle, then drape the scarf over the shoulder so the triangle goes across the chest with its point facing downward. Wrap the ends around the neck at least once and voilà — so easy! An added perk? The point of the triangle and wrapped ends draw the eye downward and away from any upper body trouble spots.
Shop the look:
Colorful blanket scarf: Buy from Amazon, $12.95
White sweater: Buy from Express, $34
Straight leg jeans: Buy from Abercrombie and Fitch, $67.50
White and tan sneakers: Buy from Amazon, $69.95
Gold teardrop earrings: Buy from Amazon, $10.18
4. How to wear a blanket scarf: Add warmth to a dress or skirt
When it’s too warm for a fully bundled up outfit, but too cold to just leave the house in a dress or skirt, a blanket scarf can create just the right amount of warmth. Wearing the chunky accessory over a skirt is one of Del Russo’s favorite ways to wear a blanket scarf. “Pair it wrapped around the neck with a blazer and skirt outfit,” she suggests, or leaving it hanging straight down creates a throw-on-and-go style. And when worn straight down, this creates a slimming column effect that optically stretches the figure from head to toe.
Related: 7 Midi Skirt Outfits For Every Occasion From Errand-Running to Cocktail-Sipping
Shop the look:
Houndstooth blanket scarf: Buy from Amazon, $29.99
Black midi skirt: Buy from Express, $40
Red blazer: Buy from Express, $79
Red purse: Buy from Fossil, $69
Black pointed toe booties: Buy from Zara, $49.90
Bonus: TikTokers are even fashioning blanket scarves into skirts thanks to their long lengths as shown in the video below from @mom_brand.
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