How NOT to put on a shawl: Tricks to keep away from a ‘harsh’ type that dates your outfit – and 6 methods to look extremely stylish, as demonstrated by HANNAH SKELLEY

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They’re the accessory du jour, with Burberry, Ralph Lauren and Ferragamo all championing them in their SS26 catwalk shows. 

Wondering how best to wear? Allow fashion editor Hannah Skelley to demonstrate the dos and don’ts. 

ON A PONYTAIL 

Scarf, £100, longchamp.com. Blazer, £265, jigsaw-online.com

Cover a plain hair tie by looping a scarf around your ponytail. Drape the ends (don’t bow!) for a tidier finish.

AT THE NECK

Scarf, £95, libertylondon.com. Trench, £69, riverisland.com. Shirt (worn throughout), £40, gap.co.uk.

Wrap around your neck multiple times, leaving just enough material free for a small knot at the side.

ON YOUR BAG

Scarf, £65, fenellasmith.com. Bag, £69, nobodyschild.com. Jeans (worn throughout), £99, mintvelvet.com

Roll loosely and knot on your bag strap, letting the ends drape down.

AS A TIE

Scarf, £125, rixolondon.com. Jacket, £139, nobodyschild.com

Keeping both ends roughly even in length, tie your scarf as if you were securing a man’s tie.

BELTED 

Scarf, £8.99, newlook.com. Trench, £69, riverisland.com

Replace the fabric belt on your coat with a scarf. Knot lightly at the back to keep it secure.

COWBOY-STYLE

Scarf, £20, oliverbonas.com. Jacket, £75, Levi’s, very.co.uk

Fold in half diagonally and knot at the back of your neck. 

TIE-SIDE

Scarf, £75, Idle Kings

Add a pop of colour by tying to the side of your belt loops. This also helps tighten a baggy waistband if you’re caught without a belt. 

And how NOT to wear…

TIED UNDER THE CHIN

While an iconic look for Queen Elizabeth II, it can be a harsh look against your face and quickly dates an outfit.

OVERSIZED BOWS

Too much extra material tied around your neck adds bulk. Opt for thinner scarves if tying around your neck.

SHOULDER DRAPED

It feels messy and looks like you’ve grabbed a blanket to wrap around your shoulders.

words and styling: jessica carroll. photos: Christopher Fenner. 

Hair and make-up: Danielle Van Cuyck using Lisa Eldridge make-up and Maria Nila hair