15 Stylish Ways to Wear a Blanket Scarf

If you're unsure how to wear a blanket scarf or what it even is, you're in the right spot. There are countless ways to style this large yet adaptable accessory. Below, we demonstrate how to tie and style it in various ways, and even how to create your own. Blanket scarves may seem intimidating, but we've compiled 15 unique ways to wear this fashionable piece.

What Exactly is a Blanket Scarf?

1. Shawl

This first idea may seem obvious, but yes, you can wrap a blanket scarf around you like a shawl, just like Zeba from Ella Pretty Blog does. Drape it over your shoulders and arms, letting it give you that cozy, blanket-like feel.

2. Belted Under a Coat

Surprisingly, a blanket scarf can be cinched at the waist under a coat, as demonstrated by Emily from Life With Emily Blog. This method highlights your waist, even while layered in fabric. Simply drape the blanket scarf around your neck, letting it fall in front, then cinch it with a belt at your natural waist.

3. Cardigan

A blanket scarf can be worn as a cardigan.

4. Wrapped and Draped

Thick blanket scarves look effortlessly stylish when wrapped and draped casually, as seen on Jessica from My Style Vita. Simply take the fabric and let it fall naturally around your neck, letting the edges drape wherever they may. This look embraces a “the messier, the better” vibe, so don’t worry about perfect symmetry.

5. Over Your Shoulders

You can also drape your thick scarf over your shoulders, just like Davida from Vida Fashionista does. This style adds a touch of flair to your outerwear, almost like a stylish accessory to elevate a simple black coat.

6. Asymmetrical Wrap

Wear a blanket scarf year-round by styling it into an asymmetrical wrap, just like Sydne from Sydne Style. This look adds a touch of glamour and elegance to a simple outfit, such as her sleek all-black jeans-and-sweater combination.

7. Oversized Kerchief

Thanks to their square shape, blanket scarves can be styled as oversized kerchiefs, as seen on Jalynn from The Red Closet Diary. Just take two opposite corners, tie them at the back of your neck, then bring the ends forward and tuck them under the triangle.

8. Even Rectangles

A simple yet stylish way to wear a blanket scarf is to fold it in half and let both sides fall evenly down the front of your body, like Victoria from Vicky's Style. This might seem basic at first, but with the right scarf—like one with bold patterns or color blocking—it can make a bold statement.

9. Infinity Scarf

A blanket scarf can also be styled as an infinity scarf, just like Amanda from Rose City Style Guide does here. This look keeps the scarf close to your neck without overwhelming the rest of your outfit.

10. Uneven Tail

The size of a blanket scarf is so large that you can create a dramatically uneven tail, just like Wendy from Thankfifi does. Simply fold your scarf lengthwise, wrap one end around your neck, and let the other end hang all the way down. Tuck in any loose edges so that the long tail becomes the focal point.

11. Knotted

For a stylish and refined twist on wearing a blanket scarf, tie it into a knot and let the ends fall in front. The best part about knots? There are so many creative variations to experiment with.

12. Classically Wrapped

Even though a blanket scarf is larger than your regular scarf, it can still be worn traditionally. If you're comfortable with the extra bulk, simply wrap the scarf around your neck and let the ends hang down past your chest.

13. Skirt

Who says a scarf must only be worn on the top half of your body? Turn your blanket scarf into a skirt—whether mini, midi, or full-length—depending on how you tie it. Open the scarf and wrap it around your lower body like a sarong or beach cover-up. Tie the ends together and add a belt around your waist to keep it secure.

14. Vintage Head Scarf

If you forgot a hat or are channeling Audrey Hepburn’s classic style, try wrapping your blanket scarf around your head for a chic and unique twist on the oversized accessory. First, fold the scarf into a triangle. Place the folded edge along your hairline, then either tie the two long ends in the front or drape one end around your neck, letting it fall down your back while the other end sits in front.

15. Cape

Whether you're heading out for dinner or running errands with a chill in the air, wearing your blanket scarf as a cape is a stylish and cozy way to stay warm and change up your look. Just drape the scarf over your shoulders and tie it in front with a knot or secure it with a brooch.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What sets a blanket scarf apart from a regular scarf?

  A blanket scarf is typically larger and square-shaped, usually measuring between 44 to 54 inches. In contrast, a regular scarf is more rectangular, typically ranging from 40 to 70 inches in length and 5 to 8 inches in width. A blanket scarf can also serve as a blanket for warmth or be spread out on the floor. Both styles come in various fabrics, designed for either warmth or fashion.

• Are blanket scarves still in fashion?

  Yes, blanket scarves remain stylish. Fashion editors have declared oversized sweaters and scarves as must-haves for winter. Bold prints, colors, and patterns are especially trendy.

• How do you make a blanket scarf?

  Tabitha St. Bernard-Jacobs, co-founder of Livari Clothing, explains that making a blanket scarf is simple. When choosing fabric, opt for cozy, winter-appropriate materials like plaid, tweed, or windowpane. Here's how to create your own:

  1. Measure and select fabric by wrapping it around your torso until you're fully covered.
  2. Cut the fabric (pin the edge to pull out a few stitches to create a frayed effect on the edges).
  3. Repeat the fraying process on all four sides.
  4. Trim any loose threads, and your blanket scarf is ready to wear.