As we head towards winter it is often hard to decide what to wear. It isn’t quite cold enough for a winter coat yet but sometimes there is a bit of a chill in the air or some damp autumn fog that sends a chill down your spine. So before you start shivering just at the thought of it now is the time to start looking at and experimenting with scarves and shawls.
A scarf can transform an outfit. Not only will it stop you from feeling the cold but it can liven up a dull outfit or change that jumper that you have worn off and on for the last three years. In fact the addition of a scarf can change an outfit that you are totally sick of into a new vibrant set of clothes.
And remember a scarf doesn’t have to stay round your neck. For an alternative look, why not use it as a belt or for something completely different, and maybe just for the brave, why not tie it around your head. For a really up to the minute look, tie it into a bow, bows are the thing for the 2008/2009 season and will really jazz up your look.
But there are so many different scarves to choose from it is hard to know what to go for. So here is a few of the current styles on offer.
The most obvious kind of scarf is the type that everyone thinks of when you mention the word scarf – a knitted length of material that you wrap around your neck on a cold day. Theses are great but your use of scarves doesn’t have to stop there. There is also in the same bracket as this scarf, the pashmina or wrap which is a longer type of woollen (often silk or even cashmere) that can be used over a party dress to keep you warm whilst you walk from taxi to table or even can be used on a cooler day in stead of a coat.
Then there are the whole range of silk scarves. These can be ruched, ruffled, embroidered or just plain silk. These look great tied round your neck if you are wearing an elegant suit in a 1940’s style or in a bow to bring your outfit bang up to date. They can also be worn in the same way as a regular scarf but will give your outfit a sophisticated edge.
For a slightly more traditional look or to give yourself the edge in business dressing a jacquard weave can add a sophisticated individuality to an outfit. Worn with plain grey or black clothing the subtle tones in these scarves will give your outfit a classy look without stepping too far way from the norm.
Fiona Muller is a trained textile designer and has written a textile thesaurus. She is interested in fashion and how it can work for anyone regardless of age, size or race. For a whole range of scarves and some ideas of outfits to wear them with go to <a href=http://www.east.co.uk/c/Accessories_Scarves.htm>www.east.co.uk/c/Accessories_Scarves.htm</a>
