2026.09.03 update

How to wear a scarf stylishly as a man, basic selection tips, and clever ways to incorporate them into your outfits.

Men's scarves (neckerchiefs and stoles) are items that attract particular attention during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn.
Many people want to incorporate them into their outfits, but may be wondering, "What size should I choose?" or "How can I wear it to look stylish?"
In this special feature, a stylist from Isetan Men's Department Store answers frequently asked questions and explains the key points of basic scarf tying techniques. Even scarves that are often perceived as "more difficult to wear" than ties are explained in detail in a Q&A format, so even scarf beginners should definitely refer to this.

  1. Q&A: How to choose a men's scarf (neckerchief) and what are some popular patterns?
  2. How to tie a scarf: 3 easy steps for anyone
    1. STEP 1. Learn how to fold on the bias.
    2. STEP 2. The basic knot is a "simple knot".
    3. STEP 3. Try applying the "necktie knot" technique.


Q&A: How to choose a men's scarf (neckerchief) and what are some popular patterns?


Q1. -- Scarves are still relatively unfamiliar to men. Could you tell us about suitable sizes and materials?

A. The most standard and easy-to-use size is "55 x 55 cm," but if you want to add volume around your neck and create a more glamorous impression, we recommend "65 x 65 cm." It's only a difference of 10 cm, but when you wear it, the difference is immediately noticeable and completely changes the look.
Furthermore, there are two main types of materials: silk and cotton. Silk is recommended when you want an elegant look or when pairing it with a jacket and shirt, while cotton is recommended for a more casual look such as a blouson and T-shirt.
Cotton is suitable for practical purposes such as protection against the cold in summer, like in air-conditioned environments or on commuter trains, or for managing sweat during outdoor activities. In recent years, as clothing with a matte texture has become more common, scarves made from blends of silk, cotton, and linen are also becoming more popular.

Q2. -- What are some popular scarf colors, patterns, and materials for men?

A. Vintage-style paisley, bandana, and small patterned designs, which have an elegant feel, are popular as they are also commonly seen in neckties.
Recently, the designs that appear when unfolded are increasingly featuring abstract art and animal paintings. It's recommended to fold them to your preferred size before purchasing.


Q3. -- Please tell us about some outfit ideas that are easy for scarf beginners to incorporate into their wardrobe.

How about unbuttoning the top button of your AT shirt or polo shirt and simply wrapping it around your neck?
This is one of the easiest ways to incorporate a scarf into a men's outfit, and it alone makes the men's scarf look stylish enough.



How to tie a scarf: 3 easy steps for anyone

 

STEP 1. Learn how to fold on the bias.


① With the right side of the scarf facing down, fold the top and bottom edges towards the center.

② Next, fold the top third and bottom third towards the center.

③ Fold it in half, bringing both sides together. Now it's ready to wrap around your neck!

STEP 2. The basic knot is a "simple knot".


When tying a scarf, avoid making the knot too puffy, as this can give a feminine impression. Instead, tie it tightly and securely.

2. The basic knot is a "square knot" ① Place the bias-folded scarf around your neck with the fold facing downwards and tie a single square knot in the front.

① Place the bias-folded scarf around your neck with the fold facing downwards, and tie a single knot in the front.


2. The basic knot is a "simple knot" ② Take the end that was on top after the first knot and tie it again on top of the second knot. ② Take the end that was on top after the first knot and tie it again on top of the second knot.


2. The basic knot is a "square knot". ③ Tie it tightly so that it doesn't loosen. This will allow both ends to hang down neatly. ③ Tie it tightly so that it doesn't loosen. This will ensure that both ends hang down neatly.

2. The basic knot is a "simple knot". ④ While looking in a mirror, adjust both ends of the scarf and you're done. ④ While looking in the mirror, adjust both ends of the scarf, and you're done.

STEP 3. Try applying the "necktie knot" technique.


Simply tying a scarf around the neck of a knit polo shirt or T-shirt creates a unique men's scarf look. The tie-like knot adds a sophisticated and stylish touch to the outfit.

3. Applying the "necktie knot" technique: ① Place the bias-folded scarf around your neck with the fold facing downwards, hold the right side longer, and cross it in front.
① Place the bias-folded scarf around your neck with the fold facing downwards, hold the right side longer, and cross it in front of you.

3. Applying the "necktie knot" technique, ② take the longer end and wrap it once around the other end.
② Wrap the longer end around the other end.


3. Applying the "necktie knot" technique, ③ pass the end that has been wrapped once through the loop created in ① from bottom to top. ③ Pass the wrapped end through the loop created in step ① from bottom to top.

3. Applying the "necktie knot" technique, pass the end that was threaded through in step ③ through the loop-shaped section created in step ②.
④ Pass the end that you passed through in step ③ through the loop-shaped part you created in step ②.

3. Applying the "necktie knot" technique, ⑤ finally tie a tight knot, adjust the length on both sides, and shape it to complete the process.
⑤ Finally, tie it tightly, adjust the length on both sides, and shape it to complete the look.


[Check out these scarf-tying methods for different sizes!]
►Add
a stylish touch to your men's neckline! A guide to tying scarves and stoles by size.

View the "Bandanas, Scarves, and Neck Scarves" product list at the Mitsukoshi Isetan Online Store.


Production STUDIO ALTA

Photo & Text: ISETAN MEN'S net

*All prices include tax.
*The information in this article is current as of the publication date. Product information may be revised or changed without notice.

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