Autumn wardrobes in the UK tend to settle into the same reliable palette: camel, navy, grey, chocolate and black. It is practical and it is elegant, but by November it can also feel a little flat. The quickest way to lift an outfit is not a new coat. It is a small amount of colour and print, worn close to the face, and that is exactly what a silk scarf does.
Here are six ways to wear one this season, using our By Femina silk scarves, designed by Brazilian artist Tacila Passi.
Why a Silk Scarf Works So Well in Autumn
Silk is light, so it sits smoothly under a coat collar without adding bulk, yet it gives a welcome extra layer at the neck. A 90 x 90cm square is also one of the most versatile sizes you can own: large enough to tie at the neck, wear over your hair, knot at the waist or wrap around a bag handle. One scarf, many outfits.
1. At the Neck, Under a Tailored Coat
Fold the scarf corner to corner into a triangle, roll it loosely and knot it once at the front, then tuck the ends inside your collar. Against a camel, navy or chocolate coat, a flash of print at the neckline changes the whole look. The Watermark, with its orange, brown and olive tones, is made for autumn neutrals.
2. Over a Fine Knit
A plain crew-neck jumper in cream, grey or black is the perfect canvas. Fold the scarf into a long band, wrap it once and knot it slightly to one side. The red floral print of The Orchid brings warmth to grey and navy, and makes a simple jumper and jeans feel considered.
3. As a Headscarf on Blustery Days
Fold the scarf into a triangle, place it over your hair and tie it under the chin or at the nape of the neck. Add sunglasses and a tailored coat for a look that is as practical as it is chic. The Unframed, with its orange floral print, is striking worn this way with a coat in a warm tone.
4. Tied to Your Handbag
On days when you would rather keep your neckline clear, wrap the scarf around the handle of a leather handbag, or knot it once and let the ends fall. It adds colour and movement to a bag you already carry every day, and it is there if the temperature drops.
5. As a Belt Over Knitwear
Fold the scarf into a narrow band and thread it through the belt loops of high-waisted trousers, or knot it over a knitted dress to define the waist. The Geometric, in earthy orange, brown and gold, works well against denim, cream and black.
6. As a Top for Evening
With party season approaching, a 90cm silk square can be tied as a halter top and worn under a blazer with tailored trousers. It feels dressed up without being overdone, and it means your scarf earns its place from the school run to dinner.
The Finishing Touches
Pick one colour from your scarf and echo it once elsewhere, in a lipstick, a bag or a knit, and the whole outfit looks pulled together. For jewellery, keep it warm and natural: Golden Grass earrings pick up the golden tones in the prints and are light enough to wear all day. You will find more ideas in The Autumn Edit.
Caring for Your Silk Scarf
- Dry clean only.
- Untie any knots after wearing so the silk can relax.
- Store it folded flat or loosely rolled, away from direct sunlight.
- Apply perfume and hairspray before you put your scarf on, not after.
Shop By Femina Silk Scarves at Lachesis London
Each scarf is designed by Brazilian artist Tacila Passi from Rio de Janeiro and handmade in the UK from 100% silk, with hand-rolled edges. There are four prints, each available in limited numbers.
Shop Silk Scarves →
Shop The Autumn Edit →
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Lachesis London — Handcrafted Brazilian luxury accessories, as featured in Tatler and The Sunday Times Style.