Hi, my name is Kackie, and I have a scarf problem. I think it all started when I decided to grow out my hair. I found that the awkward distance from my hair to my shoulders was easily compensated for with a great big scarf. As I shopped, I found that scarves don’t ever… not fit. Therefore it’s really hard to tell yourself NOT to buy them.

Then your family and friends catch wind that you like scarves. They come back from their vacations with scarves from foreign countries, they hand them down to you, they knit them for you. And then you find yourself in my shoes. Well, my scarves. I have at least a hundred. Then I had the dawning realization that I only wear about 10 of them. I figured I’d break it down to the scarves you really need, to build the right silhouettes, and for the sake of your closet space.

1. The Circle Scarf Some people call it the infinity scarf. When things are knit by machine, they naturally come out as a tube. This makes for an impossible-to-wear-wrong piece that goes with everything. Mine is from American Apparel (I used to work there, so I got a discount), but they have them everywhere now. I seriously wear mine like two days a week when it’s chilly. I also have a chunky one, and it’s huge. It’s great for cold days and it’ll cover your head, too.

Textured Pointelle Infinity Scarf, $12.50 from Charlotte Russe

2. The Neutral Cashmere Scarf It doesn’t have to be cashmere, but it should be warm and simple. The worst thing when it’s cold is worrying that your big goofy scarf with yarn flowers on it doesn’t match your coat. I know it’s easy to put comfort over fashion when it’s that bad outside, but you can still look put together if you plan ahead.

Drop Stitch Whisper Wrap, $38.90 from Nordstrom

3.The One That Hangs Just Right It’s a lightweight scarf with just enough substance to it that it gives whatever you’re wearing the neckline that flatters you. It cowls. You have to actually “try on” scarves to see if you have the right one. It’s weird, but you’ll thank yourself.

‘Open Window’ Woven Triangle Scarf, $24.90 from Nordstrom

4. The Pashmina It doesn’t have to be actually made out of Pashmina, but the word implies that it’s a big, high thread-count silky shawl that’s incredibly versatile. My sister gave me a turquoise one a few years ago that’s been my go-to ever since.

Studio 36 Women’s Solid Satin Pashmina, $15.99 from Amazon.com

5. The Neckerchief This is for special occasions or to stand out. I have one with zebras and giraffes all over it. Since it’s small, it’s a piece that can make a loud statement, much like jewelry, without stealing the show.

ASOS Silk Look Paisley Print Square Scarf, $26.95 from Asos

Here’s an incredibly helpful video on how to tie scarves. It shifted my world. Enjoy!


[via DemidovaDasha]