Traveling with Scarves

As I was posting pictures on Instagram of my Leaf Peeping trip in early October, several people asked about the details of my scarves. They are my favorite item to accessorize outfits, especially when traveling, adding a pop of color or texture and offering an additional layer of warmth. Plus, they take up virtually no space in a suitcase.

I kept an eye on the fluctuating temperature in New England before I left and ended up bringing a total of five scarves – the four in these pictures and a large cashmere travel wrap* (which I always have in my carry-on tote – no matter where I’m flying). They each serve a different purpose and can work across several outfits.

A small square, about traditional bandana size, is perfect for wearing with open shirts. This is my go-to when it’s not too cold. On a day that ends up warm, I can easily remove it and tie it on my handbag.  It adds a little color and if the sun is out, protects my chest from any exposure. I like and have several silk twill scarves, but I prefer the dry hand of a finely woven cotton, linen or a silk/wool blend. Although there are guides on how to properly tie a scarf, personally, I just do my own thing. I just wrap and knot and see if I like how the ends fall. Imperfect and less studied is always good with me. In the above photo, I’m wearing a Gucci cotton square from a couple of seasons ago, pre-Allesandro Michelle, and love how the various shades of blue work with denim. The Rag & Bone black and white gingham, below, is going directly in my shopping cart. The boldness of the oversized pattern would fit right in with my quiet wardrobe and looks rather smart.

A larger square, about 36″,  is great to have when I want to wear something a little more substantial and have additional warmth. The scarf works like the smaller option, tied close to the neck or even double wrapped with a small knot, but can also be worn loosely draped and tied over the shoulders, like I’m wearing in the above photo. I’ve found over the years, that the mens department often has the perfect size and subtle color story I prefer for this style. The Hermes above (middle) is a good example of that.

I just discovered these little cashmere squares and love them! I purchased the red one from White + Warren knowing it would add a bright pop of color to my neutral wardrobe. It was a great piece to tie over a tee on days when a sweater was unnecessary. It looks great knotted front or back and I plan to wear it over sweaters later in the season. I’d like to get another and am contemplating which color while considering a metallic.

My other go-to scarf is a lightweight, oversized cashmere, usually with a pattern. I’ve collected these over the years and have several I’ll probably never part with. They are not inexpensive so I select carefully with longevity and wearability in mind. The Roberto Cavalli I’m wearing above was purchased for the versatile and subtle color story of black, white and navy, that I knew would be ideal for travel. I love how much warmth these large scarves provide given their fine, lighter than air weave. Saint Laurent consistently has many options, as does Hermes and Loro Piana. Again, this is where I stalk the mens department for colors and patterns like this gorgeous Valentino navy fireworks scarf above, from Mr. Porter.

*Not pictured, a cashmere knit wrap is the fifth scarf I packed and have talked about in prior posts. I have a range of colors, from neutrals and classics to unexpected brights, I’ve gathered over the years for options throughout the seasons. Up next, I’m hoping to find the perfect shade of Lilac, a very strong color for spring 18, to add to my collection.

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