Blanket scarves have been around for several seasons now. People typically love them or hate them. When they first came out, I WANTED to love them. I definitely loved the idea of them, and I really loved them when I saw other people in them…but they always felt too bulky to me and like there was always just too much dang fabric. I purchased several (because again, I wanted to love them), but I never wore them. I would put them on, but I would always end up taking them off before walking out the door. Luckily, I figured out how to make them work for me, and now I wear them all the time!
TIPS AND TRICKS FOR WEARING BLANKET SCARVES
First of all, when wearing a blanket scarf, I ALWAYS put my hair in a pony tail. ALWAYS. That alone makes them easier to wear. I actually follow this rule with most of my scarves. A ponytail shows off the scarf, and it keeps the hair from just laying on top of the scarf (and looking a bit awkward if your hair length is similar to mine).
The next step is going to absolutely ROCK some of your worlds. If you’ve been reading my blog for awhile, then you might have seen this suggestion a couple of years ago. If you’re new here, get ready for me to blow your mind.
Most of us can agree that blanket scarves are intimidating and a little scary because there is just sooooo much fabric! So, I suggest you fix that problem by…..
wait for it…..
CUTTING IT IN HALF.
I know, I know. It sounds crazy, but it’s not! CUT IT!!!!!
Here’s an entire blanket scarf. Look how big it is!
So. Much. Fabric.
How do you go about cutting it? First, lay it out flat like in the picture above. Then, fold it in half into a triangle shape (like you see below). Easy, right?
Now comes the scary part. CUT IT. Simple as that. I know it’s scary, BUT DO IT!
JUST. CUT. IT.
Don’t mark it off, don’t fret about it being perfect, don’t have a panic attack, just grab a pair of scissors and get to cutting!!! This is my 3rd blanket scarf I’ve done this too, and it leaves a bit of a ragged edge, but none of them have ever unraveled on me.
Drink some wine. Give yourself a pep talk. And cut the dang scarf.
I’m telling you….TOTAL. GAME. CHANGER.
So, now that the scarf isn’t the size of a picnic blanket, put it on and style it!
See how the ponytail makes the scarf the star of the show? Plus, my hair doesn’t end up in a tangled mess, which always happens if I wear a scarf without a ponytail. And notice how the scarf is still full and cozy, but it’s not eating my face? Yep, that’s the beauty of cutting the scarf in half. All of the bells and whistles, without all of the claustrophobia.
Below is a blanket scarf that has been cut in half! Notice how much less bulky it is around the neck.
Click HERE for the scarf.
I found some new blanket scarves on Amazon, but before we get to those, I made a handy dandy little graphic a couple of years ago that I would like to share again.
Purely fyi: It took me about 20 minutes to write out the 4 SIMPLE steps you are about to read below. TWENTY. MINUTES. Wish I was kidding. I of course know how I personally tie a scarf, but for some reason it was SO HARD for me to put it into words! I hope the steps help you! Even if they don’t, just act like they do….m’kay? Please and thank you. And again, please feel free to pin it! Then you can reference it quickly next time you are having issues tying your scarf.
This next graphic is also from several years ago. The shot on the left shows the blanket scarf as I purchased it. The picture on the right shows the one that has been cut in half. See? Just as cute, but way less overwhelming. (Look at sweet Scout behind me. I sure do miss that furry guy.)
I’m telling you, QUIT YOU’RE BELLY ACHIN’ AND JUST CUT YOUR SCARVES ALREADY! If you did this with me in year’s past, PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT so people that haven’t done it yet don’t think I’ve lost my mind!
And listen to this! If you do take the leap and cut your blanket scarf in half, NOW YOU HAVE A FRIENDSHIP SCARF! Give the other half to a friend!
I wanted to highlight some scarves today that are currently available, so I headed to Amazon with the hopes of finding some great scarves at great prices with fast and free delivery. And I have to say, Amazon delivered in a big way.
I also grabbed a great basic tee and a cardigan to pair with all the scarves. And you know what…both the tee and the cardi are awesome. Even if you aren’t interested in any of the scarves, you should consider the tee and the cardi. The tee comes in a 2 pack for ONLY $16. I sized up to a medium and am glad I did. The cardi is under $30, comes in 7 color choices, and is so incredibly soft. It has fabulous reviews, and one of the reviewers dubbed it “the perfect work cardi”.
And just in case you aren’t interested in the scarves, here’s an outfit without a scarf so you can get a better look at the tee and the cardi!
Use the code STONESTEAL to get the necklace for $20 (reg. $42)!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / Sims Stone Necklace / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
This blanket scarf comes in 12 plaid options. This one is white, blue, blush, and a dark mustard.
FYI, I didn’t cut any of the blanket scarves you see in the next several pictures. I hadn’t yet decided which scarves I was keeping, so I couldn’t cut them just yet. And you know what? I’m not sure if they are making them a bit smaller now, but these didn’t seem quite as overwhelming as I remember blanket scarves being. STILL. They are going to be much more manageable cut in half. And again, then you will have 1/2 to give to a friend!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / blanket scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
This one is a black plaid, but I love how all the other colors in the plaid tie the outfit together with the mustard cardi and the wine bag. And this cross body is 50% OFF right now, making it under $35!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / black plaid blanket scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties/ wine colored cross body bag
This scarf comes in 12 options as well, but I was totally drawn to the classic navy and green plaid. And I thought it was so much fun paired with the leopard cross body!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / navy and green blanket scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties/ leopard cross body
Black and white is always good.
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / black and white blanket scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
And for those of you that are still scared of blanket scarves, I did find a couple of infinity scarves to highlight today.
Infinity scarves have a lot less fabric, and they practically style themselves. All you have to do is just loop them around your neck twice, and voila! Instant style! And this infinity scarf is UNDER $10.
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / infinity scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
Here’s a different view. I love the colors in this one.
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / infinity scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
This particular scarf is crazy stupid soft. From this same link, there’s also some chunky cable knit infinity scarves that look great!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / infinity scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
Another great one HERE. It’s only $10.99, and there 27 color combos to choose from!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / infinity scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
And a view from the top!
basic white tee / cardigan sweater top with pockets / infinity scarf / resin hoop earrings / similar leopard belt / jeans sold out/ similar booties
I hope y’all were inspired today and that some of you are looking for your scissors at this very moment.
DO IT, LADIES!
CUT THOSE SCARVES!!!
And I hope to see y’all back here on Wednesday for the recap of The Bachelor Season premier! Something tells me it’s going to be THE MOST DRAMATIC season premier ever. Photo source HERE.
Erika Slaughter says
Are you telling us the friendship scarves are 2019’s version of a BFF necklace?? I could totally get behind that. I think you’re onto something! And I don’t think you need to decide much-you’re darling in all those scarves. You probably need them all and I’ll be so happy to be the recipient of a friendship scarf!! 😉
Sheaffer says
That’s EXACTLY what I’m saying. And I will definitely gift you some halves! 🙂
kate says
I like the idea of the blanket scarf but never wore them, selling them, at first I thought you are turning them into tablecloths by the first pic, 🙂
Shay Shull says
Nothing makes me happier than a plaid blanket scarf. I’m obsessed!
Rachel says
I cut my first blanket scarf because of you and haven’t looked back since – thank you! And I am looking forward to your Bachelor recaps way more than the show itself :)!
Jan Fisher says
yes! I’ve cut some scarves….an important note though, works best with a square scarf!
thanks for the scarf ideas!
Dawn Scheurich says
I definitely cut my blanket scarves in half after your first post about it and haven’t looked back! I, too, had purchased one and just couldn’t deal with feeling claustrophobic and all that material around my neck and face!! Now my sister gets a scarf when I get one—works out for everyone!?
Heidi says
I ordered one and cut it in half years ago when you first suggested it. I mailed the other half to a friend! Game changer!
Libby says
Love the sweater! What size did you get?
Thanks!
Sheaffer says
Hi, Libby! I got the small/medium. xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Libby says
Ok thank you! And mark me as another reader that is so thankful for your blog (sitting here in my must-have black top and my grey Wit & Wisdom jeans!). I also appreciate the positivity I always find here—you’re truly like a little ray of sunshine beaming through cyber space, making our week a little brighter?
Sheaffer says
That’s so nice, Libby! THANK YOU!!!! xoxo
Anna Underwood says
I cut one a couple of years ago after reading your original post. I got a new one this year, spread it out on the floor, and started cutting it. My son walked through the room and gasped, “What are you doing?? You just bought that!”. I told him I need to make it smaller…because Sheaffer told me to. He rolled his eyes and kept on walking. Sheaffer is a household name around here. 🙂
Sheaffer says
I laughed out loud, Anna! 🙂
Diane says
How would you cut blanket scarf that is not a square? I have one that is a rectangle. All the sides have fringe. HELP! It’s so pretty but I dont wear it because its massive.
Sheaffer says
Hi, Diane! How big is it? I’m not sure of the proportions and if it would be better to make two big squares (which would essentially be two small blanket scarves), or make two skinny rectangles to just wrap around your neck.
Julee Patterson says
I’m go glad to hear someone else say that scarves make the back of their hair a tangled mess! I guess that is a hair texture issue because most of my friends have no idea what I’m talking about, but it is as if I have a rats nest back there when I take it off. Jackets and other things with high necks do the same. My 9 yr old daughter’s hair is the same way. I always buy scarves and don’t wear them for that reason. I’m a “have to wash my hair every day” kind of girl, so to fix it and put it straight into a ponytail never sounds like a good option! Glad to know it isn’t just me though with this issue!
Lisa G. says
Cut the scarf! I did this the first time you posted about it and haven’t looked back!! Great idea.
Jennifer says
Awesome post today!!!! Almost every item was added to my Amazon cart. LOVE the posts featuring great priced items and so easy to order with Prime. THANK YOU!!!!
Tami R. says
I bought a blanket scarf and use it as a blanket when I fly. I haven’t actually worn it but I do use it. haha
Penny says
This post was exactly what I needed! I cleaned out my closet and looked over my scarves. I have 2 rectangle blanket scarves that I’ve thought were too big on me. So, I’m going to cut them in half lengthwise and finish the edges to match the already-finished edge. I also wanted to look for other scarves and you provided me with so many choices! Plus, once I got on Amazon to look, there were more choices! Thanks!
Narci says
Absolutely nothing is MORE fun than being in NYC and realizing that your blanket scarf is too big….and walking two hotel doors down to consult the blanket scarf cutting queen (YOU) and the only person I know who would travel with full size scissors (Andrea). Cutting your blanket scarves is life changing! 🙂
Sheaffer says
YES, Narci! I almost wrote about this in the post!!! Hysterical! xoxo
Allie says
I loved this post! Can’t wait to cut mine! Thanks!
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
Ahhhhhh!!! I have some pretty blanket scarves that I NEVER wear because they are just too bulky! I am running to get my scissors NOW! This could bring a whole new dimension to y’all scarf exchange! haha
That Inspired Chick
Holly says
I love your blog! I really want to know if you put your hair in a high ponytail or did it another way. Please share! Love the looks!!
Sheaffer says
Thanks, Holly! It’s just a high pony! xoxo, Sheaffer 🙂
Emily says
Thanks for this great tutorial on how to deal with huge blanket scarves! I am deathly afraid to cut mine in half but hearing that so many of you have done it successfully has given me courage ?
Jaren says
Oh my goodness! This a total game changer! I always feel like these look good on everyone else, but I feel ridiculous because blanket scarves just about swallow me whole. Time to go grab my scissors!
sheila says
I did it! I cut my scarf in half and I love it. I have the navy and green plaid and it’s been sitting on my dresser for over a month. I got home from the holidays and I saw it and was just “Ugh”. And then…your blog post came in and now I’m so pleased with it! Thank you, Sheaffer!!
JB says
Did I miss the link or the brand/description of the black and yellow ankle rain boots you are wearing?
Sheaffer says
Hi, JB! They are several years old. The brand is Joules, but I don’t think this pattern is currently available. I hope you find them! xoxo
Valerie says
I used my blanket scarf constantly on a trip to Europe when it was colder than expected…kept me warm and doubled as a shawl ?. I didn’t cut mine but it was a thin material so worked perfectly when folded (exactly how you described in the post)! Love the first scarf you showed-definitely need!
Christi says
lipstick color?
Sheaffer says
Hi, Christy! It’s “fashion icon” by Lancôme! Xoxo
Lisa says
I’m a scarf cutter from your original post also. I think the Amazon description says it all, “Over-Sized Enough To Be Worn As A Shawl Or Used As A Picnic Blanket During Fall Activities. ” lol
Sheaffer says
That is HYSTERICAL, Lisa!!!!
Beth says
Well, I did it! Read your blog a couple of days ago about cutting blanket scarfs in half – and was looking in my closet last night for something to wear out to dinner and spied my scarf. Love the colors but rarely wore it cause it “wore” me!!!! So I cut it and tied it like you did and LOVED it!! I can breathe again?. Thanks for the tip….would have never thought to do that!
SUZANNE says
I recently cut one of my blanket scarves based upon one of your earlier calls to do it. Gave the other half to a friend. We are both happy!