3 Ways to Stylishly Wear a Flannel Scarf (Without Looking Frumpy!)

Have you ever thought about how in describing the roles or tasks we have to do,  we say it’s the “hats” we wear?  Or if the “shoe fits", wear it? 

While I’m not sure where either phrase came from, I find it quite hilarious that both examples link an element of fashion or style  ...to life!  Because often times it does, more than we realize!

Welcome to my blog!  

In this post, we’ll think about a few different ways to wear a cozy flannel scarf this winter season. Aside from the practical purpose of added warmth when we need it (of course) we also want it to look stylish and not frumpy, right? 

I was first inspired to experiment with this while watching a Lifetime Christmas movie (a guilty pleasure for me—  and yes, sometimes style inspiration hits me when I least expect it!)

I’ve personally loved accessorizing with scarves in the past. However, an actress in this movie was wearing a beautiful holiday patterned scarf layered over a bright colored jacket that I thought were simply beautiful with the colors and styling.

After making a mental note and searching for a similar scarf online, I spotted this one from Old Navy. I was perusing during their Black Friday sale, loved the navy blue color combination, and decided to go for it.  Yay! 

However...

After it arrived, I noticed the thickness of the fabric right away and knew that unlike most of my “styling of scarves past”, I’d have to be very careful that it did not add too much visual bulkiness when I wore it. I mean, although clothing and accessories definitely can be used for that, that was not the goal in this case!

Now, before I share the styling ideas, here’s a few things to consider: 

Scarves (flannel or otherwise!) may not be for you if,
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• You are very hot natured or overheat easily!  Stick with necklaces, etc. when you want to add more pizazz or pops of color at your upper body or neck area.

 

• You are very “blessed” up top!  If you have a very full bust-line, any heavy fabric scarf will probably give the illusion of even more fullness, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing—but may end up throwing your body proportions off a bit if you're not careful.

Now, let's make note of some advantages of accessorizing with scarves:
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• As a way to add harmonizing color around your face (which makes your skin seem to glow!)

 

• To experiment with a new color or pattern you're unsure about. 

 

• To avoid having to wear a heavy coat for quick store runs, errands, or meetings.  Just wrap that puppy and go!

 

• For crazy weather patterns (like here in the South), it gives a quick and stylish way to add warmth for unpredictable chilly mornings or evenings.

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So all these things considered, here’s what I came up with from my closet about how to wear my new scarf:

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1.  Layered over a sweater:  

This look is for a cooler weather day when you want to add more color to your life!  Also, depending on the vibrancy and color combinations, you may stand out.  So, keep this in mind while ensuring that this outfit combination fits with your plans for that day!

This particular sweater fits close to the body to help counterbalance the bulk of the scarf, but please note that this is just an example.  Taking the basic body “rules” into consideration, always always choose fabrics, colors, and style that flatter your current body the best.  If you’d like help in figuring this out, let me know. It’s painless, I promise ;)


2.  Layered over a lightweight denim jacket:

Since I love layering with denim jackets over tanks tops, dresses, etc, I just had to experiment with a look over this particular one that I had already (also from Old Navy, ironically!)

I plan to pair the combo with my dark gray velour jogger pants, just to keep everything somewhat neutral.  That way the scarf can be the real "star" or focal point of the outfit!


3.  Layered over an outerwear jacket: 

Now this is the look that started it all!  This is an easy way to jazz up a plain coat or jacket, whether for a festive occasion or just because.  This jacket is waist length and fairly lightweight, but feel free to experiment with what works best for you and the occasion.

Also, you will notice that I did not fold or tie the scarf much at all for this look. Since the jacket is double breasted and because of its length, I needed a way to create the illusion of a longer neckline and torso. Because BALANCE and PROPORTION matter!  More about that in a later post, perhaps ;)


So now... would you dare to wear a flannel scarf this winter?  Or have you already?  Was it a hit ...or a miss?  Let me know below!