Looking for a quicky, chic look when you’re headed out?

Here are six ways to wear a long scarf with a jacket.

The other day I had to get ready really fast and so I threw on some jeans, a tank top and a suit jacket.

I looked fine, but I wanted to great.

That’s when I reached for a pretty, long, silky scarf to add some style and a little color.

This time of year having a something around my neck helps keep the cold at bay, plus it lifts an outfit from dull to dazzling. There are so many pretty scarves out there and I own more than a few.

Yes, I may or may not have once had a hoarding issue with vintage scarves.

Six Ways to Wear a Long Scarf with a Jacket

(First let me just say that my dog came into our bedroom to see what I was up to when we photographed these scarf styles, and I made the mistake of petting him before shooing him out. What can I say, I felt bad not including him in the process, but what happened is that by petting him out of guilt I got his white dog hair on my black jacket! Please ignore Enzo’s contribution to this post.

The versatility and style impact of a long scarf cannot be beat. You can go from casual elegant in seconds by adding a long scarf.

I’d encourage anyone to start a scarf collection as a budget friendly fashion choice. Scarves extend your wardrobe and give you a multitude of looks for a fraction of the cost of a new piece of clothing.

1. The Half Bow

This looks harder than it is. Simply knot your scarf and then take one end and loop it over twice.

2. The Classic Tie

Another easy one. Tie this like you would a men’s tie. Wrap one once end around the other just below your chin then take that same end and tuck it under the part of the scarf your wrapped around the other.

3. The Side Bow

Even though it’s definitely extra this is my favorite way to tie a pretty scarf. It just seems special and reminds me of the 70’s. I can see my mom wearing a scarf back then like this and that makes me happy.

4. The Sash

I love incorporating the sash style in daily wear. It gives an elevated look that really sets you apart. I just tuck one end of a scarf into my waist band and let the scarf flow behind me.

5. The Infinity

Subtle and right for all casual occasions.

Wrap it loosely around your neck then tie a knot at the end and then swing the knot to the back so it’s hidden.

6. The French Twist

Elegant and sophisticated, this look is created by doubling the scarf then put the two loose end through the loop and pulling.

All these styles are easy to recreate and take less than a minute. Get creative and find your own way to tie your scarf. Have fun, fashion is suppose to make us smile.

I suggest the ideal length of a long scarf to be around 48 inches for these styles.

When selecting scarves for different outfits keep in mind color and texture. If you want to add color to an all black outfit like mine go for a light or brightly colored scarf. If you’re looking for a scarf to match what you’re wearing find a scarf that complements the colors you are wearing. Scarves as a versatile accessory that save you money in the end by extending the ways in which you can wear your clothing.

I hope you’ll experiment with these styles and if you have your own scarf-wearing tips please share them here.

Let’s have fun with dressing up our outfits with scarves this season!