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When we think of silk neckerchiefs, we think of vintage convertibles speeding across the French Riviera, carrying a blur of silk chiffon, brightly hued polka dots and florals which, when witnessed at a red light, appear to form a delicate headscarf.
Beneath said headscarf is the it-woman. Not a girl, but an easy, breezy, flirtatious vixen born for the summer sun and a cool ocean breeze. She has a Hepburn-style fringe, big cat-eye sunglasses and a bold red lip no matter the weather. Perhaps she’s wearing pearls from one of her many admirers, or a glistening diamond tennis bracelet which catches the light just right.
When she steps out of her convertible and reaches for one of the countless helping hands ready to guide her into a beachside restaurant, she removes the headscarf from her head to reveal perfectly intact, coiffed curls. She ties the silk number around her neck like a Boy Scout billionaire, and her matching linen button-down shirt and shorts are instantly elevated.
All of this is to say that, since the 1950s, silk neckerchiefs and headscarves have been symbols of effortless style and opulence. The vintage accessory is witnessing quite a resurgence in popular fashion as of late, with the widespread sartorial desire to embody ‘quiet luxury’ showing no signs of slowing down.
The humble accessory also serves as a simple way to tie in your personal colour scheme no matter the ensemble you’re sporting – should you be the type of individual who has had their colours analysed. Whether you’re a cool autumn or a warm summer, you can instantly accentuate and uplift any neutral outfit with a silky soft scarf that incorporates your most flattering hues.
In the words of Hepburn herself, “When I wear a silk scarf, I never feel so definitely like a woman, a beautiful woman!”
We’ve curated a luxurious edit of the best vintage neckerchiefs and scarves to wear through the spring and summer months. Keep scrolling for an effortlessly high-end aesthetic.
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Liberty Ciara Meadow 70x70 Silk Scarf
Home of some of the most iconic florals and fabrics known to man, Liberty was naturally our first port of call when it came to curating an edit of the best silk scarves and neckerchiefs. The Ciara Meadow print has a wonderfully vibrant 1960s feel – perfect when it comes to accessorising a vintage ensemble.
We love a classic 70x70 square silk scarf due to its inherently versatile nature. Its size and shape mean you can twirl and roll it up into a neckerchief, or wear it folded in a triangle as a headscarf while you’re on the move.
Buy now £185.00, Liberty
At Home with Ray Polka Bandana In Orangeade
One glance at this bandana-style neck scarf by At Home with Ray and we feel like we’re somewhere in Southern California. Available in three summer-themed palettes, this lightweight cotton-silk blend will keep you cool while your neck is protected from the harsh summer sun.
Buy now £58.00, Wolf & Badger
Harrods Silk Menagerie Print Scarf
Realised in a glossy silk twill, this gloriously feminine scarf from Harrods is filled to the brim with artistically designed florals. Tie around your neck, or your favourite day-to-day luxury handbag.
Buy now £75.00, Harrods
Toteme Signature Monogram Silk Scarf
A veritable optical illusion, this silk square scarf by Toteme features the brand’s iconic logo at the centre. This option is ideal for those who aren’t quite ready to graduate to full, colourful florals and wish to maintain a subtle goth aesthetic no matter the season.
Buy now £155.00, Liberty
Lost Pattern NYC Happy Hour Silk Diamond Neckerchief
Vintage style with a modern twist? Sign us up. This delightful silk neckerchief by Lost Pattern NYC is inspired by the ‘celebratory spirit of happy hour’. Featuring eye-catching pastel hues, cherries, watermelons and cocktails – this is the perfect neck scarf for summer garden parties.
Buy now £64.00, Wolf & Badger
Burberry Skinny Poppy Silk Scarf
Burberry is yet another classic destination when it comes to luxurious, high-end scarves. This new poppy design is realised in a glorious, sunshine-ready vermillion hue. Bound to make your tan and freckles pop.
Buy now £190.00, Burberry
TOAST Ribbon Print Cotton Bandana
For a more modernist approach to neck scarves, look no further than this cotton bandana by TOAST. Combining innovative design with artisan craftsmanship, this chic accessory has been screen-printed in India.
Buy now £49.00, TOAST
Vintage Yves Saint Laurent Handkerchief
This seller on Etsy has an array of vintage scarves and neckerchiefs on sale, but this love heart-adorned YSL option instantly caught our eye.
Buy now £29.46, Etsy
