The scarf is the perfect way to accessorise and update an ensemble. Highly on trend this season, scarves can be worn in many different ways, whether it is to transform you from daytime into an evening look, or simply to add detail to what may be a sophisticated outfit.

Available from designers in many different sizes, shapes and fabrics it is important to see these items as investments and to understand how to integrate them into your wardrobe.

Many designers are offering silk scarves this season, all chic in their appearance, yet all worn differently. Generally silk scarves are square or quite long and narrow in shape. Seen below is a vintage silk square scarf folded diagonally. In doing this it gives you good length to manipulate the scarf into a knot or shape suited to your style.

Wrapping the scarf once around the neck and loosely knotting it in place whilst softly draping each length of the fabric over either side of the shoulder, creates a sophisticated and very couture inspired way in which to incorporate a scarf into your look. Worn with a tailored jacket or stylish top it opens up the neckline.

A continuation of the previous style would be to take the lengths of fabric, wrap them around the neck again, stopping to knot them a little tighter on the front of the neckline. It is a feminine way in which to wear a scarf and highlights the face. Classically fashionable it conjures up images of Grace Kelly mixed with the height of Parisian chic women. Perfectly worn to accessorise a tailored jacket on smarter occasions, it would also compliment a basic jersey top, skinny jeans and ballet pups, creating a beautiful ensemble.

Alternatively a square scarf can be folded into a slim rectangle, which creates volume when worn around the neckline. This style can be complementary to women, who may feel they need help balancing out their shape. For pear shape women it is ideal as creating more volume around the bust will highlight the narrowest part of their body, the waistline giving the illusion of feminine curves.

This ‘bow effect’ is one of the simplest ways to wear a scarf. Worn over a basic top, maybe a fine knit jumper, a simple black dress or a long sleeve twin set, is an elegant way to add detail and a welcome addition to the soft tailoring. As seen in the image below the lengths of the scarf are loosely knotted at the centre of the neckline, leaving the ends to create a bow like effect. As mentioned previously this creates volume, giving the illusion of a stronger bust line, whilst also serving a practical purpose during these colder months.

Depending on the ensemble you team this with, you can experiment with how you tie your bow. Keep it simple with more casual outfits such as jerseys or possibly create a more defined bow around the neck and wear this with a delicate, collarless blouse as a feminine alternative. This trend, often referred to as the ‘Pussy Bow Blouse’ has come into style again this season, scarves are the perfect way in which to re-create this look.

Shawl style scarves are heavier in weight and are perhaps seen as more of a practical option for the winter season. However this doesn’t mean that they have to be conventional in style, designers have crafted beautifully elegant styles that have been woven using fine yarns, embroidered with delicate patterns and also hand printed with beautiful designs.

It is important to consider the entire ensemble when adding a shawl scarf, as you want it to compliment the outfit rather than over power it. Seen below, the scarf has been wrapped once around the neck, tied and then draped down the front of the body. In doing this, the detail naturally elongates your figure, which again is flattering to all body shapes.

If this feels a little formal, try loosening the scarf, and continue to wrap it around the neck. Another huge trend this season is the ‘Snood’ scarf. Design houses have embraced this form of layering, creating it in different fabric, textures and colours. Particularly stunning with short hairstyles and extremely practical as we head into winter, here we demonstrate a softer version that will still keep you in style for the coming seasons.

Scarves are definitely the accessory to experiment with this season, and are key items to have. Chose colours that suit your style and hues that work well with outfits you already own as a chic way to update your wardrobe.

Even if most of the international fashion magazines had announced the new elegance, my first duty in early September was to check in the Parisian boutiques and designer stores which items the buyers had chosen from the catwalks to dress us this winter.

And, as a matter of fact, there is a new, calm and soft CHIC; ladylike, but never boring, minimalist sometimes but always with a touch of femininity  – or shall we say “womanity” as Thierry Mugler named his new perfume so cleverly.

If you are not really interested in fashion details and just prefer to focus on the global trends, you will certainly be pleased to know that shoulders are still underlined with a draped line or even shoulder patches, whereas waistlines become very slim and often ornated with belts. Long legs are essential, underlined with knee length or short dresses and a fabulous choice of new skirts. This winter collections also offer a great variety of new trousers and stretch leggings.

Fabrics are softer than ever as comfort is VERY important, and even coats are light to make us feel good.

As for the new bags, messenger bags are particularly interesting as they are light and fit well with the elongated figure. Totes are elegant and discreet, very ladylike, in fine leather or suede, reminding fashion icon Grace Kellys allure….

This new silhouette is enhanced with classy, pointed pumps, kitten heels or high heels, as well as leather or vinyl boots, from ankle boots to classic knee-lenghth boots. Flat ballerinas are often ornated with beautiful metal buckles.

The color range is interesting, as there are still a lot of gray tones to be paired easily with all scales of black and of course, the new CAMEL color which is mainly used for coats or suits. Additional tones are warm ivory and soft pastels, purple and bordeaux tones are another option, especially on small pieces.

Almost each collection offers  a selection of garments with animal prints, polka dotts or stripes, there are also prints with houndstooth or floral prints at selected stores. On plain pieces, sophistication is obtained with a draped effect or bow appliques.

Each of the main topics is described in the following articles, with details and ideas for great styling, in a particular chapter, to give you tips on how to mix and match them for a fabulous and versatile outfit.

For a private styling session or a typical Parisian shopping tour according to your tastes and budget considerations, to learn the tricks of the Parisienne and update your wardrobe, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Additionally, I also have invitations left to  fashion shows in Paris, featuring classic and timeless winter collections made by Parisian designers and produced in France and Italy, if you wish to attend them (late Sep and mid-October).