Tie One On

{Image from moeys.net}



Whether you live in cold weather (I feel your pain) or warm weather (I hate you), temperatures are bound to drop some time, and when they do, a nice scarf is the perfect accessory to keep you feeling warm and looking good.

And scarves aren't just for outerwear anymore either. A lighter-weight scarf in a trendy pattern (I hear buffalo plaid is in) or a unique fabric (knit! sparkly!) is the perfect accent to a graphic T-shirt or a solid-colored blouse.

Now, if you are like me (and I hope at least one of you is), wearing a trendy fashion scarf is a sort of intimidating proposition. I am always afraid I will look, well ridiculous. But, Shabby Apple friends, never fear! Follow these simple guidelines (with examples set by our celebrity friends!) and you'll look flawless every time.

Do: Choose a classic monochromatic look.

Tone on tone outfits plus scarf look best with neutrals, such as black, navy, camel and cream. Up your sophistication, and keep your outfit from veering to boring, by mixing fabrics, including satin, velvet and wool. {Image by Stephen Lovekin/Getty Images}

Don't: Think a scarf can save a bad outfit.

If it looks bad without a scarf, it won't look any better with one. Another hint: save skinny scarves for more fitted tops and jackets.

Do: Wear a flattering color next to your face.

If you wouldn't buy a chartreuse shirt or sweater, you probably shouldn't buy a chartreuse scarf either. But a flattering pop of color can add excitement to a fluffy winter coat.

Don't: Overwhelm your look with a scarf.

If people feel like they need to stop your scarf from choking you, it's probably too big and too knotted. And what is the point of putting on a shirt at all if you are just going to cover it with an enormous scarf? Instead of going for a huge knot at your throat, drape longer scarves, or tie them with a loose not further down. {Image by Amy Sussman/Getty Images}

Do: Make a scarf your spotlight accessory.

A simple scarf in an elegant fabric, such as pashmina or cashmere, is a perfect winter substitute for showy jewelry. Choose a bold, clean color that contrasts nicely with the rest of your ensemble for a winning evening look.

Don't: Throw on a scarf as an afterthought.

You can't just toss on a polka-dot scarf with a cocktail dress and expect anyone to think you put a lot of thought into it. Make sure the style of your scarf matches the tone of the rest of your outfit. And, if the scarf takes away instead of adding, skip it. Just because scarves are stylish doesn't mean they look good all the time.

Do: Wear a scarf for dressy events.

A broad scarf in a classy color, such as red, and a classy fabric, such as pashmina, can add color and warmth to more formal ensembles. Wrap a longer scarf loosely around your neck once and let the ends hang down, or drape a scarf around your shoulders and toss the ends over either side. Use a sparkling decorative brooch to keep it in place. {Image by Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images}

Don't: Overaccessorize.

Put a floppy hat with a long scarf and a pair of sunglasses, and you'll look more like a fugitive than a fashion-plate. Remember that there is such a thing as too much of a good thing, and make sure your accessories are not competing with eachother. (Also, if a hat and a scarf got in a fight, who do you think would win?)

Do: Try a print scarf.

The right pattern can set of your outfit perfectly. For example, a colorful plaid is the perfect compliment to a muted pea coat. And a lighter-weight scarf with a trendy pattern is a great way to spice up a simple black or white T-shirt.

Now, once you have the perfect scarf picked out, there are as many ways to tie it up or twist it around as there are people reading this blog post. (And, by that I mean a lot. There are a lot of you reading this blog post, right?) For example, do you want to wear a scarf around your head? As a belt? Under a coat? If you are looking for a little inspiration, here are some pointers on how to tie a scarf.

Good luck!

And tell us, is a scarf one of your go-to winter accessories?