Snow’s out, scarves out

Winter temperatures have started to hit the Cache Valley, making scarves a must-have for any trip out in the cold and snow. 

Not only can scarves be great fashion accessories but they are also severely under-appreciated for their health benefits. 

The standard scarf draped around your neck can help keep your neck warm, but there are several ways to tie a scarf that can protect you from the harsh cold air.

That isn’t to say that draping a scarf around your neck right before running up to campus is a bad idea, however, try flipping one end of your scarf around your neck so it lays down your back; now you have 360 neck coverage. 

To help keep your scarf in place, flip the other end of the scarf over the back in similar fashion.

For especially colder days, pull the fabric near your neck up over your nose to warm the air you breathe in. 

Although it might seem a little stuffy, wearing your scarf over your nose and mouth in the winter also helps prevent the spread of disease and can even help asthmatics avoid asthma attacks by inhaling the frigid air. 

Not to mention keeping your nose warm helps prevent runny noses, too.

If you’re planning on being outside for an extended period of time, consider folding your scarf lengthwise and then draping it over your neck. Then, take the two ends and stick them through the loop on the folded end of the scarf. 

Pull on the two loose ends until you’ve got a snug knot of sorts right up next to your neck. Now you don’t need to worry about your scarf shifting around your neck or slipping off your shoulder, and you can throw on a matching coat for a great winter look. 

For scarves under coats, start by draping the scarf over your neck with each side hanging down your chest. Next, overlap the ends of the scarf by wrapping each side towards your back. Then put a coat or sweater over the whole ensemble and fasten any buttons or zippers on your coat so that only the collar of your scarf shows. 

Now you’ve got a formal look that makes your scarf stand out, especially when you’ve got a bright colored or patterned scarf.

If you want to tie your scarf in a fashionable knot, try the four-in-hand knot. Start by folding your scarf lengthwise and draping both sides around your neck and down your chest. 

Next, put one of the loose ends through the folded loop on the other side of the scarf. Now, reverse the loop so it makes a figure eight and put the other loose end of the scarf through the new loop. 

Adjust the scarf by pulling the loose ends all the way through the loops until you’ve got a snug fit on your neck. If done correctly, you’ll have a scarf that weaves in several knots that are sure to keep you looking stylish and warm for hours on end. 

Whatever knot you choose, make sure to pick the right material. 

Silky scarves can look nice, but won’t be as warm as their cotton or wool relatives. Choose a scarf that matches your coat, sweater, or other clothes’ color palate for the best look. 

Scarves elevate any formal or casual style, making it an essential piece of any Utahn’s wardrobe.

-Ryker.Eggenberger@usu.edu