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Even if you’re not Lenny Kravitz, you should probably own at least one scarf. Not to mention, a really warm one for cold-weather season. Despite having less square footage to play with, you can go big — like an extremely oversize blanket — or subdued, as though you casually winter in the Scottish Highlands. Some even like skinny scarves per early-2000s Lorelei Gilmore, but I think we can all agree those are mostly for style. (I was never sure how she stayed warm.)
However, don’t underestimate the power of a staple scarf. You can really show off your personality with one — wear yours with a coordinating sweater and winter hat for a playful look or with a classic wool coat to even make your ten-minute bodega run a sophisticated one.
Below, we rounded up some of our best scarf options, even featuring an oversize fringed knit one that almost rivals Lenny’s — almost.
So, you’re looking for the best scarves for winter?
➼ Our top picks
➼ More tried-and-true options
Our Top Picks
If you need an essential everyday scarf
Materials: Cotton, viscose | Colors: 42
Black is a classic winter color, but this fan favorite (it has more than 2,200 five-star ratings!) also comes in 32 colors. It’s big enough to double as a small blanket, so you can snuggle under it on plane rides.
If you live in your UGGs
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 2
Accessorize your go-to slippers with an equally plush fleece UGG scarf. The fabric will keep icy winds out, while the neutral camel hue will go with almost any winter ensemble.
If you’re all about puffer coats
Materials: 100 percent polyester | Colors: Black
Add a padded scarf layered under your padded puffer coat. This H&M padded scarf features a perfect keyhole design to loop the opposite end of the scarf through and easily wrap around your neck — guaranteeing extra-insulated warmth.
If you’re a cashmere person
Materials: Recycled cashmere, recycled wool | Colors: 2
A basic recycled cashmere-and-wool scarf that comes in seven colors and happens to be on sale? Say no more.
If you want that scarf
Materials: Alpaca, wool, nylon, mohair | Colors: 10
Acne Studio scarves basically rule winter. Give in to the temptation so you can finally own one of the brand’s colorful wool-check designs this season.
If you can’t resist Ganni
Materials: Recycled wool, polyamide | Colors: 1
If you consider yourself a #GanniGirl, then you’re going to want to add this soft recycled-wool-blend logo scarf to your winter wardrobe. Bonus: It’s reversible.
If you want to rival Lenny Kravitz
Material: 100 percent polyester | Colors: 1
You won’t be able to resist cocooning yourself in this oversize sage scarf by the popular Australian bridal brand.
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More Tried-and-True Options
If you want a scarf that’s also a hood
Materials: Viscose, polyester, nylon | Colors: 2
A hat and a scarf all in one. This Free People hooded scarf is made of a soft fleecelike material that’ll add a unique layered moment to your winter look.
If cable knit is your thing
Materials: Wool, cashmere | Colors: 1
For a sophisticated preppy look, bundle up in this classic cream scarf made from the brand’s soft wool yarn and featuring Ralph Lauren’s famous polo emblem.
If you’re into a classic fisherman rib
Materials: 100 percent cashmere | Colors: 2
This classic cashmere scarf is made in a traditional braided fisherman rib style, ideal for bundling up and layering. It’s a luxurious piece, yet with a simple ease, that is sure to become a staple in your winter wardrobe.
If you’re into fluffy skinny scarves
Materials: Polyester, recycled polyester
Who doesn’t love a snow-white scarf in the winter? Especially an extra-fuzzy faux-fur one that exudes winter energy. The skinny, shaggy scarf also has a cool vintage look that will give any outfit some extra flair.
If you love fringe
Materials: 100 percent wool| Colors: 3
We all need at least one classic no-frills scarf that will last all season. This fringe one from Banana Republic fits the bill.
If you like the preppy look
Materials: Wool, viscose, polyamide, cashmere | Colors: 1
There’s something about a color-blocked, rugby-style scarf in the winter that screams “preppy” and “cozy.” You can always turn to quintessential preppy labels like Ralph Lauren and J.Crew for a staple logo scarf, but we love this chunky block-pattern one from French-Japanese brand Maison Kitsuné.
If logomania is the move
Materials: Wool, mohair, polyamide
Colors: 1
You’ll get so many compliments when you wear this black-and-gray logo Loewe scarf. It’s pretty much made to be dramatically tossed around your neck.
If you want to feel like you’re wearing a blanket
Materials: 100 percent merino wool | Colors: 5
Take the definition of “bundle up” to the next level with this blanketlike scarf from Quince. Made from a substantial and structured wool-blend felt, it is comparable to your favorite couch blanket (only more acceptable and chic to wear in public). You can also buy the matching wool coat.
If you want to be extra-cozy
Materials: Alpaca, wool, polymide | Colors: 3
When it comes to the ultimate warm-and-cozy fabric, alpaca reigns supreme. This alpaca-wool blend scarf will surely keep you toasty.