Why a Silk Scarf Belongs in Every Summer Wardrobe : A Capsule Wardrobe Essential

As I am finalising my summer crochet capsule, I have started thinking seriously about travel packing. I’ll be away for almost a month, and the goal is to pack minimally but not boringly (I need to shoot that lookbook!).

I think of a great packing list and capsule the same way I think of a good meal: a balance of textures, colours, and flavour. Crochet brings the texture. Silk scarves bring the colour.

I have always loved scarves. I get goosebumps anytime it’s under 25°C, so I like something around my neck. In winter, it’s all about big blanket scarves and turtlenecks. But once spring arrives, out come my silk squares, many of them inherited from my very stylish grandmother. Wearing them makes me feel close to her.

I like accessories that carry stories. And honestly? A silk scarf is the perfect memory to bring home from a trip.

It feels amazing and makes you look polished.

Silk is soft, breathable, and luxurious. It feels fantastic on the skin and elevates any plain outfit instantly. Even a white shirt and jeans feel intentional.

It adds colour without going overboard.

If you love neutrals but want a pop of color, a scarf is a great low-risk way to experiment. Personally, I admire maximalists but I’m not one. With scarves, though, I can dabble (maybe even dazzle!).

You can wear colours that might not suit you normally.

Silk scarves let you try tricky tones, like hot pink or violet for me, without overwhelming your skin tone. Because the dose is small and controlled, it works.

They’re incredibly versatile.

A larger scarf can be:

• A top

• A belt

• A skirt

• A wrap

• A dress

• A turban or bandana

• A headscarf

• Even a beach cover-up

Click here to see me try some of my scarves on.

They rescue your hair on lazy days.

The “clean girl” aesthetic might not be curly/wavy-hair-friendly, but silk scarves are. Whether braided into hair, tied over frizz, or styled as a bandana, they’re effortless and stylish.

They’re wearable art.

Some prints are so detailed they feel like little paintings. And I love the idea of wearing art. Don’t you?

They’re sustainable.

Vintage scarves are plentiful, affordable, and plastic-free. New scarves from small makers or established houses are also a great option. If cost is a concern, check out secondhand platforms like Vinted before you give in to polyester.

They’re travel-friendly and practical.

Silk scarves fold down to nothing in your bag. They help stretch your wardrobe further. You can cover your shoulders in religious settings or shield yourself from the sun (hello, burn-prone shoulders!).

My scarf collection

pictures of all the scarves with maybe a blurb about them (most worn, least worn and why etc).

I thought I would share a peek into my collection. Some of these have been worn to death, others are less loved (for now).

Create a grid with each scarf and short captions:

• Most Worn: Leopard Scarf in autumn and the Valentino (biggest one in the picture) in summer. Both are lightweight, bold in their own way, and go with everything. A mini bottle of India ink exploded on the Valentino scarf. I cried a little and somehow managed to save it with Dr Bronner's liquid mint soap.

• Least Worn: This darkest one (first line, second scarf). I think it's the colours and pattern, they are too muted and modern to serve as the accent I use the scarves for.

• Most sentimental: The first one pictured below. Gifted by my partner in a small shop in Venice. The design exists only there.

Getting Started: Notes and Tips

Want to start a small silk scarf collection? Here’s what I recommend:

• Start with a classic 90x90cm square, the most versatile

• Get a small square or long skinny one for easy hair/bag styles

• Bigger scarves = more style options (tops, skirts)

• If budget is tight, check secondhand platforms like Vinted

On Color:

I usually lean toward darker tones, but for scarves, I have realised I wear my lighter/brighter ones more. They sit near the face and brighten everything up, good to keep in mind if you are unsure.

On Prints:

I love vintage florals and literal animal prints (give me a leopard, not leopard print). Nautical or equestrian themes feel very Hermès if you want to go classic. Geometric prints feel a bit modern for my taste, but they are a good neutral option if you don’t like florals. You could also go with simple polka dots or stripes.

A silk scarf might just be a square of fabric, but to me, it’s a memory, a mood, and a style statement all in one. It’s the smallest thing in my suitcase yet one of the most powerful.