Scarf belt: how to wear a scarf at the waist?
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Recently, we talked about Jelly shoes, making a comeback in trends for the second consecutive year. And indeed, these are not the only ones trying to hold their place in our hearts, as this spring-summer also sees the return of the scarf belt, which means tying a scarf around the waist. Adopted in a slightly different way this year, for a touch of novelty, let’s rediscover today how to add this detail to our outfits – and why not make it ourselves with a DIY crochet.
Scarf Belting: A Trend That’s Not Done Yet
Spotted last year, but in a rather sporadic and ephemeral manner, the scarf at the waist is determined to make a statement this season. Adopted by style icons like Jennifer Lawrence or Kendall Jenner, scarf belting has also made its comeback on the SS2026 runways.
Whether at Dries Van Noten, Malene Birger, or Ferragamo, the fabric redefines the silhouette by cinching the waist with a detail that completely transforms an outfit.
How to Adopt the Scarf Belt in 2026?
While the scarf was primarily worn in its triangular form in 2025, several variations seem to appeal for this spring-summer 2026.
Silk Scarf for a More Sophisticated Look
For its second year in trends, scarf belting is unveiling a more refined appearance. In fact, we are observing a preference for pieces made of silk, either solid or patterned. This material, which reveals a more elegant finish, thus allows for adding a refined detail to an outfit and creating a sophisticated silhouette.
Choosing it in tones that complement your outfit for a more delicate vibe, the scarf adapts to both form-fitting pieces and a slightly looser t-shirt. Moreover, we also find it beautifully integrated into a dressy evening outfit, as well as a more casual look for the day.
Additionally, these fabrics are often adorned with fringes at their ends, allowing you to adopt two trends at once, as they are also making a comeback!
A Rectangular Scarf for a More Assertive Scarf Belting
While the triangular scarf remains trendy, we are seeing in the SS26 lookbooks more models playing with length that accentuate the waist even more.
Indeed, while the triangular version provided a graphic detail to the silhouette, albeit remaining relatively understated, this year, the scarf becomes the centerpiece of outfits, making scarf belting a more assertive statement than ever.
Now utilizing long rectangular fabrics, this accessory completes outfits with new lines, redefining the modern silhouette. On one hand, the drapes of the fabric lay on the garment with length and character.
Then, a more complex and deliberate tying technique comes into play at the waist. Unlike the triangular scarf, which ties in a relatively simple and discreet knot, the long rectangular fabrics allow for a more pronounced emphasis on the bust – while also leaving the possibility to wear the scarf in a more casual way, for example, by threading it through the belt loops of your pants.
Here too, the accessory shows versatility in how it can be worn. Notably, its length format allows it to make an impact whether adopted over pants or tied around a coat.
A Scarf Belt or Crochet Over-Pants for More Texture
Here’s a variation that adds a charming texture to an outfit. Crochet scarves are no longer just for neckwear but are also seen adorning our hips.
Created through various models, ranging from the usual shape of a scarf to longer pieces resembling over-skirts/over-pants, these DIY crochet projects allow for transforming an outfit with a craft aspect that we particularly appreciate.
Known under the name “crochet waist scarf belt”, we find several online tutorials to guide us step by step in creating this DIY crochet.
And the inspirations are so abundant that we can easily find a model that suits our skill level – and it is entirely possible to make this piece by knitting.
Unveiling with crocheted patterns that are more or less open, some models even lean towards a net effect, occasionally adorned with a few beads.
Made in shades of white, black, or beige for a discreet note, or in color to become the centerpiece of your outfit, making your crochet scarf belt will give you a custom piece tailored to your style – all while embracing an analog hobby!
Photos: Pinterest – cover Unsplash
