The silk scarf I inherited from my nan has been everywhere, shapeshifting through my adventures as the ultimate style hack. Originally bought as a souvenir in Venice, it’s since become my favourite poolside cover up in Ibiza, Jamaica and Thailand, eavesdropped in the office and beer gardens while wrapped around my bag’s handles, and covered up frizz on bad hair days in London. Forgive me, then, for assuming that I’d pretty much exhausted all the ways I could style my sentimental heirloom. But a new frontier of scarf styling has entered the chat: the era of the scarf belt is upon us.
OK, so this isn’t exactly a totally new fashion innovation. People have long rhapsodised about the versatility of the humble scarf. But this summer, the timeless staple is arguably being worn more than ever – mostly around the waists of fashion girlies. This isn’t just a case of weaving a scarf through your jean‘s belt loops for a pop of colour. Right now, scarves are the focal point, the conversation starter, the must-have item that turns an outfit you’ve already worn 100 times into something completely new and original. Need to spruce up a sundress? Add a printed silk number. Want to liven up a monochrome look? Wrap a contrasting colour around your waist. Bored of wearing the same suit to work? Get. A. Scarf.
Shop the trend
Topshop Hanky Hem Mini Skirt With Heavy Embroidery In White
Coach Charms Print Silk Square Scarf
The reason this little trick works so well is because it looks like it takes way more effort than it actually does. Just one extra step while you’re getting dressed in the morning will transform your outfit from basic to a fashion moment in less than a minute – the kind of understated styling power move that almost feels like a cheat code. Better yet, the scarf belt also comes loaded with functionality. It chinches your waist, yes, but when positioned strategically, it can also patch up a myriad of fashion mishaps. Think: dodgy zips, awkward hems, questionable stains. When was the last time a leather belt saved you from the Pret soup you spilled down your white trousers? The scarf belt is a hero piece in more ways than one.
It’s hard to pinpoint exactly where this trend first came from – famous adopters include Alexa Chung, Anne Hathaway and Jennifer Lawrence – but I, for one, am eternally grateful for its resurgence. My beloved silk scarf can live on in a new form, as part of new outfits on (hopefully) more far-flung getaways. Or, you know, just in the park. Either way, I’ll be rinsing this style hack all summer long. Here’s how you can get in on the action, too.