How to Wear a Scarf in Summer

Scarves are not just for fall and winter. To be honest, I love scarves. And knowing how easily they elevate even the simplest outfits, I’ve found ways to rock mine all year round, even in summer. Given my love for these adorable accessories, I’ve also been curious enough to ask fashion experts about the right way to wear a scarf in summer.

If you're curious like me and want to learn how to style scarves during summertime, I've got the best tips for you.

But first...

Which Scarf Is Best for Summer?

You don't want a thick, woolen scarf weighing you down in the sweltering heat. When choosing the right material for your summer scarf, two fabrics stand out: cotton and silk. Cotton is incredibly breathable and lightweight, while silk feels luxuriously smooth and is naturally temperature-regulating, meaning it stays cool even in the heat.

The sweet spot? Having a cotton silk scarf!

You can find adorable cotton-silk scarves at Ichcha, block printed with colorful patterns reminiscent of summertime. These fabrics are ideal for layering without bulk.

Scarves made of tightly woven natural fibers like cotton or cotton-silk blends also provide great protection from the sun's UV rays in summer. These materials are breathable yet provide decent coverage from direct sunlight. Wear a cotton scarf around your face, across your shoulders, chest, or even your arms when the sun feels a little too harsh.

Now, let's talk about how to style your scarf in summer.

9 Ways to Wear a Scarf in Summer

1. As a Sarong or Beach Wrap

What's summer without lounging? Whether at your backyard pool, the beach, or just after a shower, transforming your scarf into a sarong is a functional way to wear scarves in summer.

Simply tie it around your waist or looping it over your chest and behind your neck and you're good. This is one of my personal favorite ways to wear a long scarf in summer.

2. As a Head Scarf

I wrote about different ways to tie a bandana recently, and these are styles you could also pull off with a long scarf in summer when you just want to keep your hair in place.

Fold a square cotton or silk scarf into a triangle and drape it over your head, tying the ends under your chin or at the back. The headband, pirate, and Parisian styles work perfectly. You can as well tie a long scarf into your hair as a hair tie or bun wrap.

Read more on how to tie a head scarf.

Cotton and silk won’t trap heat, so you can wear this summer scarf comfortably for hours.

5. Around the Neck

Yes, you can wear a scarf around your neck in summer. It’s all about choosing a featherlight one and tying it loosely. Just fold a smaller cotton scarf into a triangle, place it on your chest, and knot it around your neck. This is my favorite way to tie a scarf in summer.

And it works great for adding a pop of color to a tank top or sleeveless dress. Bonus points if you've got a vibrant block-printed scarf with multiple colors.

7. Over the Shoulders as a Shawl

This is something I do a lot. When temperatures dip slightly in the evening, I drape a long scarf over my shoulders like a soft shawl. It's a simple way to wear a scarf in summer. If you like boho style, you can try it too.

Perfect for sundresses or sleeveless tops when you want a little coverage without carrying a whole extra layer. It’s effortless, comfortable, and easy to toss into your bag for later.

3. Tied to Your Handbag

Whoever said your scarf must be on your body? When the summer heat makes layering tough, simply tie a small square scarf around the handle of your bag. Doesn't matter whether it's just a tote, crossbody, or luxury handbag, adding a scarf instantly adds a pop of color that just makes your entire outfit so much brighter.

Plus, you’ll always have a scarf on hand to repurpose later if needed around your neck, hair, or even as a makeshift sunshade.

8. Worn as a Halter Top

This one is incredibly sexy and bold, so you need a bit of confidence to pull it off. If you're up for this summer scarf-tying technique, then go for it.

To wear a scarf in summer as a halter top, Fold the scarf into a triangle, place it on your torso like an apron, then tie the pointed ends around your neck and back. Don't worry, there are tons of videos and images on YouTube and Pinterest if you're really serious about this look.

9. Wrapped Around the Wrist

If you have a small square scarf or neckerchief, feel free to tie it around your wrist. It's playful, fun, and a great way to use your scarf amid the scorching summer heat. You want to pick a scarf with a bright print to really make it pop.

This style works especially well with cropped pants, sandals, or a stack of bangles for a layered effect.

Find Summer Scarves at Ichcha

If you're jetting off to a beach miles away, you want to turn heads for the right reasons. And an accessory as simple as a scarf can make that happen.

If you don't yet have a lightweight scarf suitable for summer, rush to Ichcha now. You'll find lightweight cotton silk scarves, block printed with beautiful patterns to make your outfit come alive!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Wear a Square Scarf in Summer

There are many ways to wear a small square scarf or bandana in summer: fold it into a triangle and tie it around your neck or head, or roll it up and use it as a headband. To protect your face from the summer sun, consider wearing a square scarf in the Parisian style.

How to Wear a Scarf with a Dress in Summer

Summer dresses are usually simple, flowy, and laid-back. When you want to add texture or color to your summer dress without layering up, a block print scarf can be the perfect choice.

You can drape a scarf loosely over your shoulders, tie it around your waist as a belt, or wear it in your hair to complete the outfit. Choose breezy, soft vintage scarves that flow with your dress and keep things light.

How to Wear a Men’s Scarf in Summer

Men can wear summer scarves to polish up an otherwise simple outfit. I particularly fancy how the neckerchief style bandana looks on men. Just a square printed scarf would do.

Otherwise, drape a long scarf around the neck or tie loosely over a shirt. Make sure to use a lightweight vintage scarf to avoid creating heat for yourself.