How to Style a Scarf into a Blouse When You’re Plus Size or Curvy

I have always loved the beauty and versatility of scarves. My mom had a great scarf collection, so many beautiful ones she collected over the years. I started my own collection inspired by her, and now own many I inherited from her. Scarves are an accessory that takes up little space but can truly transform a look. I love learning new ways to style scarves, especially if it's something a little out of the ordinary, like how to style a scarf into a blouse. But not all scarf hacks work when you're plus size or curvy.

How to Style a Scarf into a Blouse When You're Plus Size or Curvy

However, as a size 14/16 woman with a large bust, a lot of the tips on how to style a scarf don't work for my body. I always loved the idea of styling a scarf into a blouse but it never worked for me. But scarves are being made in different sizes these days, offering more versatility for those of us who are plus size, have larger busts, or just have failed at achieving this scarf hack.

The Size of the Scarf Matters

Talbots has an annual tradition of commissioning female artists to design scarves for them. Called “The Art of the Scarf,” the collection fundraises for Susan G. Komen during the month of October. 20% of the net proceeds from this collection of six 41″ square silk scarves will be donated. This is one of the scarves from this campaign.

The 41″ size is great for curvy and large bodies because it provides enough fabric to create the effect of a blouse under a blazer or cardigan. Luckily, these days many different retailers carry oversized silk square scarves in a 41″ or even 52″ or 55″ size.

Where to Shop for Oversized Silk Scarves

Talbots is always a go-to for 41″ scarves in real silk; Echo New York makes some of the most stunning silk scarves and offers an oversized 55″ square option. If you prefer a machine washable option, this 51″ square scarf from Tuckernuck looks and performs like silk and comes in beautiful prints. I also recommend checking out Etsy where you can find real silk scarves in beautiful unique prints in most any size you can imagine.

Directions for Styling a Scarf into a Blouse

I took two ends next to each other, not across from one other and tied them in a knot. I put it over my head and hung it in front of me like a bib with a cowl neck. I adjusted the knot so it draped the way I liked best. The knot for me is very near the end to allow a lot of drape. Depending on the size of the scarf and your waist, you may be able to tie the other two ends around the back of your waist, or you can just tuck it into the front of your trousers.

Styling Tips for this Scarf Hack

I am wearing a camisole underneath for modesty (if I need to remove the jacket or if the cowl falls open) and warmth (otherwise my back would be open). Choosing a cotton or microfiber camisole versus a silky one will help the scarf stay in place and not slip around, especially if you tuck the scarf into the front of your jeans or pants. A fitted non-silky camisole will act as grip tape to hold everything in place.

Now, this may not look great on its own. I have seen folks on social media use a second scarf to hack a back to cover a bandeau, and do other tricks to make a scarf truly work as a blouse. But this hack I have found comfortable, functional, stylish, and a great way to work with what I already own. I just choose to do this scarf hack with outfits when I don't plan to remove my blazer or top layer.

I have used this hack to turn a scarf into a blouse under open and closed blazers, but also under other toppers. If you tighten the knot at the back of your neck, you can shorten the neckline and have this peek out of a zip-neck sweater, a partially buttoned cardigan, and looks really chic with denim jackets and leather jackets.