Guide to Men’s Scarves – What Style Suits You Best?
by Erik Neilson
Winter is one of the best times of the year to think about accessorizing an outfit. Scarves are perfect winter accessories, as they are not only effective at keeping one’s neck warm, but also serve as a welcomed visual addition to just about any outfit. Bearing all of this in mind, it’s important to realize that there is a great deal of variation on the market, and choosing the right scarf isn’t always easy. The following are just a few different popular types of scarves, each of which comes with a unique set of pros and cons.
Wool Scarves
When it comes to functionality, it’s difficult to beat wool scarves. Wool scarves are built for warmth, and can make a huge difference on cold, windy days. In addition, wool scarves typically look great when paired with most types of winter outerwear, and are the ideal option for those who like to go skiing on a regular basis. One of the most versatile types of scarves on the market, wool scarves can fit into practically any type of situation, making it important for everyone to own at least one.
Cotton Scarves
Cotton scarves are very popular amongst those who like to put time into choosing an ensemble. While they don’t provide as much warmth as their wool counterparts, cotton scarves are perfecting for living up an outfit. This type of scarf tends to be relatively thin, making it easy to work with and tie in whichever way one might want to. Cotton scarves are typically worn on days when extra warmth is not completely necessary, as they are mainly used for aesthetic purposes. Nevertheless, the right cotton scarf can make practically any outfit pop like never before.
Silk Scarves
Men’s silk scarves aren’t quite as common as those which are made out of wool and cotton, but can be quite effective when worn correctly. Like cotton scarves, silk scarves are primarily meant for aesthetic purposes, as they provide little in the way of actual warmth. However, silk shines in a way that cotton and wool simply cannot, which means this type of scarf is ideal for formal situations, or simply for turning heads as you walk down the street. Since silk is a rather expensive material, it’s important to realize that silk scarves can be rather costly, making them less than ideal for those who are on a budget. Also common are combinations of silk with wool. Many designers choose a finely printed and decorative silk fabric on one side, and a warming cashmere or merino wool on the other.
Knit Scarves
Knit scarves can be made out of wool, cotton or blends, and are perfect for those who are looking to add some handmade flair to their winter ensemble. While knit scarves can vary dramatically in quality depending upon the amount of care and work that goes into them, those which are well-made tend to be both warm and attractive, sometimes even more so than commercial scarves. Just about everyone could benefit from having one hand-knit scarf in their possession; especially people who live in cold-weather climates. For best results, shop at a local, privately-owned boutique when looking for knit scarves.
Other Readings From Our Blog:
Dos & Donts in Men’s Winter Fashion
2011 Fall Outerwear Guide for Men
Your Mens Ties.com Team