Silk Scarves Guide: How To Wear, Wash And Store Them : Scarves can be made from all sorts of fabrics, from linen to wool, polyester to nylon. Yet, nothing really compares to silk. In fact, there’s something quasi-magical about this delicate, luxurious fabric spun from the threads of baby silk moths!
Nonetheless, while many of us are drawn to this otherworldly material creation, it is sometimes baffling trying to work out exactly how to wear and care for it. After all, given its higher price tag, we don’t want to find ourselves with a damaged scarf after only one wear! Read on to find out the best ways to wear, wash and store your silk scarves.
How to wear silk scarves
Silk scarves for women are making a comeback, with the fashion world embracing its timeless qualities and innate versatility. It’s true: Silk scarves can be styled in such a way that they complement virtually any outfit, from a professional two-piece suit to a floaty summer dress or even a casual polo-shirt and jeans. While there are several basic ways to tie your scarf, here are some our favorite ways to truly showcase its splendor:
Half Bow
This twist on the traditional bow is perfect for pairing with a simple neckline (such as a slash-neck long-sleeved top or a plain polo neck). What’s more, the half bow is also easy to master.
Fold your square silk scarf in half diagonally, to obtain a triangle. Starting from the longest side of the triangle, fold the scarf inward, to create a long, thin stretch of material, making even folds like an accordion. Next, wrap it around your neck. Cross the ends as though you were going to tie a knot. Form one loop and pull it through (towards your ear), leaving the other end and newly formed length to loosely drape down your top, with the single loop sitting on your neckline.
Experiment with tighter or looser bows, and once you’re happy, move it to the side of your neck (or the position it feels most comfortable). Allow the longer end to drape down your top. The simplicity of your garment will enable the silk scarf to take center stage.
Wear as jewelry
Beginning in the same way as the half bow, create a triangle and then a long, thin length of fabric. Wrap it around your neck with the ends in front of you. Tuck one end beneath the other to create a loose knot and start threading one end around the part of the scarf that is around your neck, forming a series of loops. Repeat until no fabric remains, and you have created a necklace-like effect. Experiment with the size of the loops and the tightness of the scarf, depending on whether you want to create a choker or a looser, necklace-style effect.
With so many beautiful silk scarves for women around, experiment with a knot that really emphasizes the fabric, pattern and colors.
How to wash silk scarves
One of the biggest sources of apprehension when it comes to silk is how to wash it. After all, for a silk scarf to form a part of your everyday wardrobe, you want to feel comfortable enough to grab a coffee or sandwich, without undue fear of spilling and damaging it beyond repair!
Not all silk is alike and the higher quality the fabric, the more likely it is to require dry cleaning. Check instructions on each product before you wash it and if it states ‘Dry Clean Only’ then it’s essential to take it to a dry cleaner.
If it doesn’t have this warning, while it’s inadvisable to simply throw silk in among your jeans and other hardwearing garments, it’s not as hard as you might think. First, sort your washing into colors, and always wash silk with similar shades. If it’s its first wash, keep it separate as the colors may bleed. To lessen the bleeding effect, always wash silk in cold water.
To avoid the “rough and tumble” of the washing machine spins, use a handwash cycle, and pop it inside something else, such as a mesh bag or pillowcase for extra protection. Equally, consider your detergent carefully. Look for a product that is specifically designed for silk, or delicate materials. Stains can be removed by applying the detergent directly, and very gently daubing with a soft sponge.
When it comes to drying your silk scarf, avoid direct sunlight at all costs. It’s best to lay it flat to help it keep its shape.
How to store silk scarves
Now you’ve lovingly washed and dried your prized silk scarf, how should you store it? Carefully, of course! That’s not to say silk scarves need to be kept under lock and key in a padded cell. However, it is work investing in some simple sheets of tissue paper to put on top and below the scarf, ideally in a dark, damp-proof place such as a drawer. This prevents other garments from rubbing, potentially damaging the fibers of the silk. Plus, it creates a sense of boutique-luxury every time you come to wear it!
Alternatively, consider using padded coat hangers to gently drape your scarves. Ensure your wardrobe has ample space to prevent other items from crushing them.
Silk scarves are precious with a unique ability to bring elegance to virtually any outfit. What’s more, unlike many things that look good, they’re also extremely comfortable to wear and suitable for the most sensitive types of skin. With such aesthetic and practical benefits, don’t let concerns surrounding washing and storage put you off. Instead, embrace the many possibilities silk scarves present, and have fun exploring how best to wear yours!