How to Tie a Silk Scarf on a Handbag

Tying a scarf on your bag is the easiest way to wear one when you don't want it at your neck. It adds color to a plain bag, and the scarf is right there when the weather turns.

Start with a small square. A 24x24" scarf is the right size for most bags. Anything larger gets heavy and pulls on the handle.

The simple bow

Fold the scarf into a band about two inches wide. Find the center, place it under the base of the handle where it meets the bag, and tie a bow on top. Fluff the loops and let the ends hang. This takes ten seconds and works on any bag with a handle.

The full handle wrap

Fold the scarf into a narrow band, about an inch wide. Tie one end to the base of the handle with a small knot. Wrap the band around the handle in a spiral, overlapping slightly, until you reach the other end. Tie it off with a knot or a small bow.

This also protects a leather handle from wear and from hand lotion.

The single knot

Fold the scarf into a band and loop it around the handle once. Tie a single knot and let both ends hang long. It's looser and more casual than a bow.

The pocket square drop

For a tote with no structured handle, fold the scarf loosely and tuck a corner into the outside pocket or under the strap, letting most of it hang over the side. It reads relaxed and comes off in a second.

Tips for keeping it neat

  • Tie knots loosely. A tight knot creases silk and is hard to undo.
  • Match one color in the scarf to your bag hardware or lining.
  • If the bag has metal hardware with sharp edges, keep the scarf away from it. Silk-wool in particular has a loose weave that snags easily.
  • Swap scarves with your outfit. It's the fastest way to make one bag look like several.

Silk chiffon or silk-wool on a bag?

Silk chiffon is light and drapes well, so it works for bows and long hanging ends. Silk-wool has more body and holds a wrap neatly, but keep it away from rough edges.

Teascarf Brooklyn small scarves are 24x24" in both fabrics. Each one carries an original artwork tea printed in Brooklyn, so even tied on a handle, it reads as art rather than an accessory.

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