Choosing between a square and an oblong silk scarf comes down to how you like to wear it, what you're dressing and where you're going. Both formats are made in England from the finest silk, but they behave differently at the neck and on the shoulders. This guide sets out the key differences so you can choose with confidence — or make the case for both.
Not shown to scale.
Format at a glance
| Classic Square 90cm | Foulard 70cm | Silk Oblong | The Laslett Diamond | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 90 × 90 cm | 70 × 70 cm | 21 × 165 cm | 38 × 183 cm (bias-cut) |
| Fabric | 100% silk satin | 100% silk twill | 100% silk twill, double-sided | 100% silk crepe de chine |
| Finish | Hand-rolled hem | Colour-contrasted hand-rolled edge | Pin-fringed ends | Bias cut for natural drape |
| Wear styles | Shoulder drape, headscarf, neck wrap, folded diagonally, waist scarf | Neck scarf, headscarf, headband | Loop at neck, draped over jacket or coat | Ties once; pointed ends fall into a clean line |
| Coverage | High — shoulders and chest | Medium — neck and head | Narrow — neck only | Streamlined — neck with length |
| Warmth | Most — generous fabric volume | Moderate | Light — slim format | Light — slim format, longer |
| Travel packing | Folds flat; doubles as wrap | Compact; versatile per size | Rolls neatly into a tube | Rolls into a slim column |
| Best for | Maximum versatility and presence | A square feel without 90cm volume | A clean, unfussy neck silhouette. An excellent option for men; pairs well with tailoring. | Those who find a classic square too full at the neck, or who want to make an elegant statement. |
The square formats: Classic Square 90cm and Foulard 70cm
The Classic Square 90cm offers several ways to wear a silk scarf. At 90 × 90 cm in silk satin with a hand-rolled hem, it is generous enough to drape over the shoulders, fold on the diagonal for a clean neck knot, or wear as a headscarf. It is the format to choose if you want one scarf that works across the most situations.
The Foulard 70cm sits between the Classic Square and a bandana in size — close enough to wear in the same ways, smaller enough to feel lighter and less formal at the neck. The colour-contrasted edge gives it distinction and a beautiful finish. If you like the idea of a silk square but find 90cm too full, this is the format to start with.
The oblong formats: Silk Oblong and The Laslett Diamond
The Silk Oblong at 21 × 165 cm is the format for those who prefer a clean line with no fuss. Double-sided in silk twill with pin-fringed ends, it loops at the neck or drapes loosely over a jacket. There is no folding or tucking involved — it is the simplest scarf to wear well. This scarf has a masculine edge and teams well with tailored outfits or occasion dressing.
The Laslett Diamond was designed for people who find a traditional square too full at the neck, and for those seeking a more unusual statement scarf. Cut on the bias at 38 × 183 cm in silk crepe de chine, it is longer and more streamlined than a square. Tie it once and the pointed ends settle into a clean, neat line, creating an effect reminiscent of a piece of jewellery. The bias cut gives the silk natural movement.
How to decide
Choose a square format if you want to wear a scarf in multiple ways — at the neck, on the head, over the shoulders or folded into a pocket square. The Classic Square 90cm gives you the most options; the Foulard 70cm if you prefer a lighter, less voluminous carry.
Choose an oblong format if you want something that goes on quickly, sits neatly and works with tailoring or outerwear. The Silk Oblong is the most pared-back option; The Laslett Diamond if you want the length of an oblong with the pointed elegance of a bias cut.
