Scarf Opinions and Key Elements

[Bayou Tiger]

Scarves are mostly a foreign concept to me.

However, I have been wanting to get one that has both great form and great function. Mainly, I would like it to keep my neck warm on cold days. However, it also needs to be very versatile to easily be worn with a jumper or overcoat.

Any thoughts below on the scarf from Drake's? I have been considering pulling the trigger on it as my one, versatile, scarf.

Regarding that, any favorite brands, fabrics, and styles to consider?

Scarf Idea

 

[mlstein]

Drakes. If you can't afford them (and who can?) some nice less expensive scarves in cashmere/modal just dropped at ehaberdasher.

I'm also fond of the cashmere and wool-cashmere blend scarves, all ethically produced, from Shelly Snow, whose Toronto business is called "She sells sanctuary."

 

[breakaway01]

The Drake's scarf you linked to is nice and works best IMO with more monochromatic outfits.

I live in a colder environment and wear a scarf fairly regularly in the winter. I am not sure why someone would only want to limit themself to one scarf unless there is a philosophical argument to be made (a specific capsule wardrobe) or a practical need (budget, storage space). Personally, versatility is not an important criterion to me for a scarf. I think of a scarf as an accent piece that can add a splash of interest or color.

 

[pasadena man]

When I lived in Chicago and needed scarves, I had 3-4. Here in So Cal I have 8-10. To a certain extent they have replaced ties to provide accents and variety in material, finish, color, and pattern, with casual outfits.

It can be worthwhile to experiment a bit cheaply on eBay before buying “the scarf”. Cotton versus wool versus cashmere versus silk versus silk blends are very different in both a visual and tactile sense.

 

[Bayou Tiger]

When I lived in Chicago and needed scarves, I had 3-4. Here in So Cal I have 8-10. To a certain extent they have replaced ties to provide accents and variety in material, finish, color, and pattern, with casual outfits.

It can be worthwhile to experiment a bit cheaply on eBay before buying “the scarf”. Cotton versus wool versus cashmere versus silk versus silk blends are very different in both a visual and tactile sense.

Great points, all.

I live in Southeast Texas, so there are not many sub-40 days. One scarf should be plenty enough, since it is mainly for utility but should be stylish also.

In most other wardrobe facets it has taken a couple of iterations to find the right fit for my style. However, maybe this is me being impatient and trying to shortcut that. On my other winter accessories, the first try has worked out really well. Examples are overcoats and gloves. If I get it right on the first time, as with those, it can last many years with no temptation to upgrade.

 

[dresden]

Try Sam Hober, wool challis. if price matters, it’s way less than the Drakes. Wool challis will do all the things you want and is way more fun than wool or cashmere. Much softer more comfortable to wear.

 

[breakaway01]

Try Sam Hober, wool challis. if price matters, it’s way less than the Drakes. Wool challis will do all the things you want and is way more fun than wool or cashmere. Much softer more comfortable to wear.

can you provide a link to these wool challis scarves? I can't find them on their website. https://www.samhober.com/scarves-1/shawls/

 

[SirThopas]

I wear scarves a lot. I favour cashmere as it irritates my neck less than lambswool or wool blends, but I acknowledge that my neck is unusually (and annoyingly) sensitive!

Drake’s makes fine scarves; I especially like the printed silk ones, with bird prints for instance. My preferred brand for cashmere scarves is Begg.

 

[dresden]

I have no issue with this.



I disagree with this, though I think it is not a meritless point and could at least be a basis for a conversation.



This I find abjectly ridiculous. And this comes about because you view the oxford as inherently the superior shoe, and thus...why wouldn't it go with everything?

This idea is how all these terrible oxfords with tight chinos looks come about.

Oxfords are not more versatile than derbies and loafers.

Maybe they are more elegant (though I think this could be a deep argument). Versatile? No.

Like the way I look at it:
Black Tie: Opera Pump, Velvet Slippers, Oxford (of restricted types)
Suits: Oxfords, Derbies, Loafers
SC+Trousers: Derbies, Loafers, or rarely oxfords
Chinos: Derbies, Loafers, Boots of various types
Denim: Derbies, Loafers, boots of various types
Shorts: Loafers and others

I would argue Loafers (or derbies) are easily the most versatile on spec.

can you provide a link to these wool challis scarves? I can't find them on their website. https://www.samhober.com/scarves-1/shawls/

Well, sh@t. I got mine years ago. I don’t see them anymore on the site. If you are really interested email him and ask if he can make one from the blue challis tie. Looks like he has 6 tie lengths. Could probably make one from that if you like it. Shibumi has some wool/silk and cashmere/silk options too. Cappelli is great to work with too, maybe email him about challis scarves if no one else will do one.

 

[dresden]

Not sure how I got that Oxford shoe argument quote in there but damn, that was quite a thread. Just ignore it

 

[ValidusLA]

Not sure how I got that Oxford shoe argument quote in there but damn, that was quite a thread. Just ignore it

Omg that thread. PTSD

 

[volcanotristate]

Linen is surprisingly warm and soft

 

[Duke Santos]

Take a look at Rampley & Co. They have some very nice, made in the UK cashmere scarves for about half the price of Drakes.

 

[Johnny80]

I think these are better value for your budget

Lightweight Tartan Cashmere Stole | Johnstons of Elgin

This lightweight accessory is so soft you’ll have to touch it to believe it, thanks to the carefully selected fibres. Shop our cashmere accessories online today.

johnstonsofelgin.com

Stay Warm and Stylish with Johnstons of Elgin Ribbed Cashmere Scarf

Elevate your winter wardrobe with our luxurious Johnstons of Elgin Ribbed Knitted Cashmere Scarf. Crafted from 100% cashmere, this soft and warm accessory adds a touch of timeless elegance to any outfit. Embrace comfort and style with this exquisite cashmere scarf from Johnstons of Elgin.

johnstonsofelgin.com