The 'Non Functional' Scarf

Though the seasonal weather is rarely predictable, staying armed for it is the surest way to combat the conditions. Following winter is a mid-season of sorts. It’s not quite spring, but it’s no longer frigid. Whereas heavy overcoats have long been put at the back of a closet, linen jackets are not yet the norm.

Transitional dressing has been covered before, no doubt. Lightweight spring jackets, perhaps layering, are both fixes to this in-between season. With that, my best weapon during this period has been a series of thin scarves: silk, silk/wool or silk/cashmere blend.

Silk/wool scarf from J.Crew, Jacket and shirt from Barney's NY, pocket square from Kent Wang, frames from SEE Eyewear, lapel pin from by Elias

Worn with a sport coat, they provide just enough warmth for the brisk mornings, and coverage from the whipping winds. To be clear, these aren't winter scarves. I'd be a fool to opt for one of these during a sub 20 degree day. A good friend of mine refers to them as the 'non-functional' scarves; since they provide little substantial warmth. To my point, they're ideal for these more mild days.

Silk/wool scarf 'Around the World' scarf by Monsieur Fox, jacket from Hardy Amies, Shirt from Kamakura Shirts, frame from Tom Ford, trousers from Brioni, lapel pin from By Elias

Silk and wool/silk blends work well due to the relative fineness of both. They're both soft in addition to being a stylish element to an otherwise muted ensemble. I look for a strong contrast when pairing mine with sport coats. Since every other component is toned down, the scarf is given greater emphasis; standing in for a tie or a pocket square.

Vintage scarf (taken from my grandmother), Jacket from Angel Bespoke

New York certainly takes her time, tip toeing into Spring but these additions make it a bit more doable. Soon enough, though, it'll be linen season.

All photos by Bevin Elias