Put This On

It’s On Ebay

Cashmere scarf by Columbo

Starts at $24.99, ends Sunday

It’s On Ebay

Vintage Ski-Themed Rayon Scarf

Starts at $9.99, ends Monday

I love this scarf that Ellie’s Bowties made for a customer from tweed cut from old Harris Tweed sportcoats.  I would have lined it with silk, though - Harris Tweed seems a bit rough on the neck.

A reader named James showed his mom (a Cary Grant fan), our post about black tie, which featured his photograph.  She insisted he watch the Grant film To Catch A Thief, and he was particularly impressed by this outfit.  So are we.  This is style FOR REAL.

James was wondering if Grant was wearing an ascot above - it looks like a scarf or a kerchief to us.  He asked if someone could wear something like this today, and I think it’s possible, but it would be tough.  You’d have to be consistently well dressed, and in a context where being casual but dashing was called for (seaside date?).  And you’d have to keep it modest, which Grant is doing here.  You’re making enough of a statement with the silk, you don’t need to flounce it around like a mid-80s Prince shirt.

Also: it doesn’t hurt to be spectacularly handsome.

It’s On Sale

Johnstons Scottish cashmere scarf

$39.90 from $95 on Sierra Trading Post

Eight Days of Style

Reader Lucy wrote to us to ask that we suggest eight super-basic, affordable Hanukkah gifts for her boyfriend “to replace his stained light-wash jeans and Nine Inch Nails t-shirts.”  We’ll offer one choice for each day the oil burned.

Finally, remember how much of his hot, hot heat he’ll lose through his neck, and get him a good basic scarf.  If he isn’t the losing-stuff type, then go with cashmere.  You can always steal it from him, right?

Q & A

Brett asks:

I like a good scarf. However, I have no idea how to wear one in a way that’s comfortable, stylish and not completely weird looking. Also, don’t really know what kind to buy. Do you have any advice for me?

Have you ever seen one of those desert rabbits with the giant ears?  They use their ears to get rid of heat.  That’s what your neck is like without a scarf.

What scarf should you buy?  That’s entirely up to you.  Wool will be warmest, silk loveliest, blends can be a charming in-between.  For real cold, a traditional Pendleton scarf is inexpensive and easy to find second hand - an Ebay search turns up dozens in a variety of patterns.  You can also try searching for “Made in England” or “Made in Scotland.”  Both are known for their milling, and Scotland particularly is the home of the world’s best woolens.  If you’re not the scarf-losing type, consider investing in cashmere or even mohair.  Good quality can still be found for less than a hundred bucks.  If you’re comfortable paying retail, we’ve loved everything we’ve purchased from Howard Yount, and they have some very lovely scarves this fall.

As far as tying it around your neck, it depends on length and style, but there are three main choices.  The first is a simple knot - the kind you use to start your shoelaces.  The second is, length permitting, folding it in half, draping it around your neck and passing the ends through the loop.  The third is to tie it like a four in hand necktie, without the very last step - around, around, behind and over.  That’s useful for shorter scarves.  Above all, you want your scarf to keep you warm and not be too fussy.  Leave that to the ladies.