Silk Scarves for Women, Chosen by Size, Print and How You Will Wear Them
Start with where a silk scarf will go: at your neck, in your hair, on a handbag or over your shoulders. The range runs from petite squares to oversized shawls, in solid colors and printed designs. Most of the scarves here are made from mulberry silk. The fabric line on the product page confirms the fiber, so read it before you order, especially for a gift.
Start With the Size on the Listing
Size is part of the listing rather than a menu choice, and it usually appears in the product title in centimeters. The 53 x 53 cm squares, about 21 inches, are the petite option; the solid-color 53 x 53 cm square scarf is described for tying as a neckerchief, a hair accessory or a wrist wrap. The 68 and 70 cm squares sit in the middle. The 86, 88 and 90 cm squares leave enough fabric for a fuller knot or a headscarf, while the 110 x 110 cm squares, such as Birds Blooms, are described as oversized foulards that can move from head wrap to shoulder shawl.
Long scarves measure 170 x 53 cm, or 67 x 21 inches, on listings such as the solid 170 x 53 cm long silk scarf, described for the neck, the shoulders or the head. The two 175 x 105 cm printed rectangles are the largest pieces, described as shawls or wraps.
Match the Shape to the Job
- Neck accent — A petite or mid-size square folds into a narrow band that sits neatly under a collar or at an open neckline.
- Hair — A 90 cm square gives enough length to tie at the nape as a headband or to cover a bun, while a petite square works as a ponytail wrap.
- Handbag — A petite square or a narrow fold of a long scarf wraps around a handle and ties off with short tails.
- Shoulders and travel — A long rectangle or an oversized square drapes over a coat or dress as a light extra layer.
Solid Colors or Prints
Solid scarves are the easiest to wear with patterned clothing and the safest to give when you do not know someone's wardrobe well. The solid 90 x 90 cm square, for example, is offered in shades from black and dark blue to champagne and wine.
Printed designs cover a wide spread of moods: florals, oil-painting and landscape scenes, geometric blocks, stripes, chain motifs and playful subjects such as lemons, cats and hot air balloons. Choose a print that shares one color with a coat or handbag she wears often.
Choosing a Silk Scarf as a Gift
A scarf avoids the clothing-size question, which makes it a practical present for a mother, grandmother, sister or friend. Picture where she would wear it: at the neck if she favors blouses and jackets, on a handbag if she rarely wears scarves, or over the shoulders if she likes a wrap in air-conditioned rooms. A 90 cm square is a flexible choice when you are unsure. To build a small bundle, add a scrunchie or eye mask from our silk accessories.
Tying Silk So It Stays in Place
Silk is smooth, so a loosely tied knot can drift. Fold the scarf into a flat, even band, keep the tension moderate and tuck short tails under the knot. In the hair, anchor it around a ponytail base or at the nape instead of on top. For covering hair overnight, our silk bonnets are made with elastic bands, ribbons or ties for that job.
Caring for a Silk Scarf
Start with the care instructions for the specific scarf. When home washing is allowed, use cool water, a little pH-neutral detergent for delicates and a brief, gentle swish, then press the water out in a towel instead of wringing and dry the scarf flat away from direct sun. If the label says dry clean only, or you are unsure, choose professional cleaning. Store scarves loosely folded or rolled, away from zippers and rough fabrics that could catch the silk.