There will always be the inevitable queue for taxis home, not forgetting it is the key prop involved in the gesture to keep lady companions warm.Īt this time of year, when everyone is wearing an appropriate overcoat, surprisingly, this is an accessory which does not receive universal approval. Don’t wear it to any old black tie function simply because you own it if you turn up to a summer event, where everyone is sweating in half lined jackets, you will look preposterous with a scarf draped over your shoulders.īut there will be times when it is just the thing you may need it to retreat from a stuffy ball to an outdoor terrace to indulge in a Cuban with pals, or when your black tie event involves a good deal of standing about in outdoor spaces (read: ‘heated’ marquees). Next, consider when the scarf will be needed as a scarf. Whilst a smooth black cashmere can look Cucinelli-cool, it isn’t appropriate for very formal events (white tie) and is not something which can be worn without top coats in addition. The safest choice is an off white or ivory silk scarf, but other acceptable colours are black, burgundy and brown. Therefore, excessively colourful, patterned or distracting scarves are better avoided. To do otherwise is caddish and ungentlemanly. Whether black or white tie, a man must avoid standing out for the exception of his costume. It is therefore an insult of great magnitude to over or underdress.įormal scarves are most often just draped behind the neck but it’s acceptable to tie it if need arises. When worn, it is normally in the company of expensively and/or elegantly attired ladies. The key points of importance finding the right scarf, wearing it on the right occasions and using it to the greatest effect.įormal evening wear is an important ensemble to get right. However, they are not only elegant additions to an evening ensemble, they are also useful. Ordinary woolen scarves are already viewed by many as effete trimmings which ‘real’ men can easily do without evening scarves, of fine silk, are therefore seen as the epitome of wanton sartorial frippery. The evening scarf is one of the most misunderstood accessories in menswear.

White scarf