There is one accessory I would never leave behind when travelling, whatever the destination or duration of the trip. A silk scarf weighs almost nothing, takes up no space, and quietly solves more problems than you would expect. This is how to get the most from yours on the road.
Why does a silk scarf belong in every traveller's bag?
Silk is one of the most practical fabrics in existence, which surprises people who think of it only as a luxury material. It is naturally breathable and temperature-regulating, which means it works in warmth and cold alike. It dries quickly, packs down to almost nothing, and recovers from a suitcase with nothing more than a few minutes in a steamy bathroom. It also looks beautiful, which helps.
A single well-chosen scarf can do the work of several accessories. The eight ways to wear it below are not exhaustive: once you start travelling with one, you will find your own.
How do you wear a silk scarf when travelling?
- Around the neck. The simplest and most versatile option. Fold the scarf diagonally into a triangle, roll it into a soft band, and knot it loosely at the front or to one side. It works over a plain shirt, a linen dress, or a jacket. It works at breakfast and at dinner.
- As a headscarf. Fold into a triangle, drape over the head with the long folded edge across the forehead, and tie the two ends at the nape of the neck. Practical in strong sun, elegant everywhere else. Grace Kelly made this look definitive and it has never dated.
- As a hair accessory. Fold into a long narrow band and use to tie a ponytail, wrap a bun, or wear as a headband. A quick and polished solution after a long flight.
- As a bag accessory. Tie loosely around a handle and let it hang. It transforms a plain bag instantly and keeps the scarf within reach when you need it.
- As a wrap or shawl. A larger silk square draped over the shoulders works beautifully on a cool evening or when entering a church, temple, or restaurant with a dress code. For those who want real warmth as well as style, Laslett England's superfine merino wool wraps measure 138cm by 180cm: generous enough to cocoon around the shoulders and light enough to fold into a bag.
- As a belt. Thread a long narrow scarf through belt loops or tie it around the waist of a dress. A small detail that changes the proportion of an outfit entirely.
- As a wrist tie. Wrap a smaller scarf or neckerchief around the wrist and knot loosely. Playful, easy, and useful when you want your hands free.
- As a cover-up. At the beach, on a boat, or anywhere that calls for a little more modesty than your current outfit provides.
What are the practical uses of a silk scarf on a journey?
Beyond styling, a silk scarf earns its place in a travel bag for practical reasons too. Folded, it makes a passable pillow on a long flight or train journey. Tied loosely over the eyes, it blocks light for sleeping. Draped over the shoulders, it provides warmth when air conditioning is aggressive. Knotted at the corners, it becomes a makeshift bag for market finds.
Silk also has the useful property of drying extremely quickly. If you are caught in a downpour or need to rinse it out, it will be dry within hours.
How do you care for a silk scarf while travelling?
Roll rather than fold when packing: this minimises creases and protects the fabric. Store in a breathable pouch or a clean plastic bag to protect against spills in your luggage.
If you pick up a stain, blot it gently with a damp cloth immediately. Do not rub. For a more thorough clean, hand-wash with a small amount of gentle detergent in lukewarm water, rinse well, and lay flat to dry away from direct sunlight.
To release creases on arrival, hang your scarf in the bathroom while you shower. The steam does the work without any effort from you.
Which Laslett England scarves travel best?
The Classic Square at 90cm by 90cm is the most versatile single piece you can pack: large enough to wear as a headscarf, drape over the shoulders, or fold into a neckerchief. The Cadiz silk scarf is designed with travel specifically in mind, with a unique foldable construction and multiple pattern faces, finished with a hand-rolled edge. The wool wraps are ideal for long-haul flights or cooler destinations: they provide real warmth without bulk and arrive looking composed however long they have been in a bag.
All Laslett England scarves are packed in a signature red gift box, which doubles as protective storage for the journey home.
A final thought
The best travel accessories are the ones you forget you are carrying until you need them. A silk scarf qualifies on every count. Pack one at the top of your bag, where it is easy to reach, and let it do its work.
Always designed and made in England.
