How to tie a square scarf

A square is the most dressy of the scarf shapes and the one people are most unsure of. The trick is that nearly every way to wear it starts from the same fold, and none of them take more than a minute. Start with the band, then pick the tie that suits the neckline.

Start here: the band

Lay the scarf flat, fold corner to corner into a triangle, then fold the long edge over in 2-inch turns until you have a band about 3 inches wide. Most ties start here.

A 26-inch square makes a narrow band that suits small knots at the neck; a 36-inch square gives you enough length for headbands, drapes and anything tied at the back.

The neckerchief

Band at the back of the neck, ends to the front, one simple knot slightly off center. Tuck the ends under the band for a cleaner line. Best with a crew neck or a shirt collar.

The French knot

Band around the neck with the ends in front. Cross the ends, bring one end up through the loop at your throat and let it fall. Leave it loose; it should sit in the hollow of the collarbone.

The bandana

Keep the triangle instead of the band. Point to the front, ends tied once at the back of the neck under the hair. Works with a tee and a jacket.

The headband

Fold the band to about 2 inches. Place the center at the nape, bring the ends to the top of the head and knot once; tuck or leave the ends. A silk or viscose square slips less if the hair is slightly damp or textured.

The shoulder drape

Open the square to a triangle, point at the back, the two ends over the shoulders. Fasten with a brooch, a knot at the chest, or tuck the ends under a belt. This is the one for a 36-inch square.

The bag tie

Fold to a 1-inch band and wrap it twice around a handle, finishing with a small knot. The quickest way to add color to a plain bag.

Which fabric for which tie

• Silk and satin hold a crisp knot and slide into place; best for the neckerchief and French knot.
• Viscose and cotton have more grip, so they stay put as a headband or bandana.
• Wool squares are for the shoulder drape; they're too thick to knot small.

Sizes are listed on every product page in inches and centimeters. If you're between, go larger; a big square can always be folded smaller.