The Best Scarves For Women
One of the most important items to stock up on before temperatures drop is a good scarf. This cold-weather staple keeps your neck and chest warm while simultaneously adding a dash of color and texture to any outfit. Best of all, these days, you can find women's scarves in every style, cut, material, and price point to match your wardrobe and your wallet. So to help you get started, we've rounded up our favorite scarves for women on the market today.
What to Look For
We took size, style, and cost into consideration when vetting the top contenders on our list to help you find the right scarf for you. So, for example, if you’re after a larger scarf designed to match more outfits thanks to its own stand-out pattern, you can’t go wrong with the everyday plaid scarf by American Trends. But if you’re willing to spend a bit more for an elegant scarf that is made to last, you’ll love the super soft, smaller cashmere scarf by Lona Scott. Check out the rest of our super scarves on our list below.
American Trends Plaid Scarf
Toasty in tartan
Tartan is one of the most popular scarf patterns out there today. And it’s not hard to see why. A Scottish-inspired plaid shawl like this one by American Trends comes with a variety of colors in each scarf, making it easy to style with different coats and jackets. But no matter which of the classic patterns you go for, you can be sure your scarf will be as soft against your skin as it is warming on your neck and chest.
Pros:
- Larger size means you can use it as a blanket
- Warm without being bulky thanks to the lightweight design
- More affordable price compared to most tartan scarves
Cons:
- Some shedding may occur until you wash it
Anika Dali Shimmer Sparkle Infinity Scarf
Well-made, well-wrapped
Wrapping a long shawl can be a difficult task, especially if you’ve never done it before. Fortunately, infinity scarves are here to help. We’re particularly in love with this delicate infinity scarf by Anika Dali because it offers the most elegance for the least amount of effort. Each scarf is handmade by artisans that blend soft viscose with metallic threads to create an eye-catching design that really stands out. Simply loop it around once or twice to let your neck shine.
Pros:
- Multiple subtle colors are woven into each glitter design
- Easily drapes over your shoulders or collarbones for a different look
- Doesn’t feel itchy on sensitive skin
Cons:
- Fragile threads may catch on other clothing items
Lona Scott Cashmere Scarf
Woven for luxury
When it comes to superior fabrics, you just can’t beat the look and feel of cashmere. The thinner hairs of this material mean they can be woven into super soft, sturdy garments like this scarf by Lona Scott. Made out of 100% tried-and-tested cashmere, this accessory features a two-ply design for just the right balance of thin and thick to keep you warm without making you sweat. All the while, the middle-weight weave keeps your scarf looking good for longer.
Pros:
- Shorter length is perfect for traveling
- Fringe adds a bit of decoration around the neck
- Arrives true to the pictured color
Cons:
- Comes with a premium price tag
Extree Pashmina Shawl Scarf
A full body experience
The right scarf can do a lot more than just keep your neck warm, and that seems to be what the designers over at Extree were thinking when they made their convertible scarf blanket. Its extra-large size makes it easy to style both as a regular scarf and as a shawl for keeping warm at outdoor events. And because the scarf is reversible, you can show off both the light and dark sides of the material at the same time depending on how you fold it.
Pros:
- Huge selection of patterns and colors to choose from
- Wool and cashmere mixed into the fabric for extra warmth
- Printed design on both sides of the scarf
Cons:
- Hand-wash only
Home Prefer Beanie Scarf Set
Coziness for less cost
If you live in a colder climate, then a scarf may not be enough to keep the chill at bay. But this doesn’t mean you need to break the bank just to stay warm. Instead, opt for a dual accessory set like this beanie and scarf combo by Home Prefer. Both pieces are made using a thick acrylic knit on the outside with fleece lining on the inside for extra warmth when you really need it. Use the items separately or rock them together for a cozy, color-coordinated look.
Pros:
- Less bulky scarf is great for use in cold-weather workouts
- Wider opening on the scarf for covering the nose and mouth
- Washer and dryer compatible
Cons:
- Has a slight smell right out of the package, which comes out in the wash
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my scarf be?
That depends on your aesthetic preference and how cold you tend to get. If your chest is often chilly, for example, then a longer scarf will be a better choice as it means you can tuck the extra material into the front of your jacket. But if you’re mainly looking for a fashion scarf, then an infinity scarf with a standard looping pattern may be a better bet.
How often should I wash my scarf?
Though you don’t need to wash your scarf after every wear, keeping your accessories clean is an important step in ridding your closet of germs and dirt. This is especially the case if you sweat in your scarf or often expose it to outdoor elements like snow or salt. Just remember to check the specific label of your scarf to care for it properly, whether in the wash or by hand.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.