5 Printed Scarves To Spice Up Every Summer Wardrobe

by Annie Wazer | 5:53 pm, June 28th, 2011

We’re all about multi-tasking, which is why we think the scarf might just be the world’s most versatile accessory. You can wear it as a hair-tie, a belt, a shawl, or even a top and either way you’ll look chic and effortless. But the best scarves add some printed panache with their drapey flair, which is why we rounded up our five favorites to share with you — and offered up our thoughts on how to style them.

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1.ModCloth Scarf

We all own something with an animal skin print -- but what about with an animal print? From sweaters, to dresses, to scarves, graphics of animals have flooded the fashion scene this season.

ModCloth scarf, available at ModCloth for $24.

2.Outfit: ModCloth Scarf

This zebra-printed scarf adds an element of surprise to any outfit, but that doesn't mean you should wear something boring with it. Heighten the drama of this scarf with an edgy outfit -- leather shorts should do the trick!

Shirt: Fat Face, available at Fat Face for $40; Shorts: Joseph, available at Net-a-Porter for $222; Watch: Armani Exchange, available at Armani Exchange for $120; Bag: Alexander Wang, available at Net-a-Porter for $495; Shoes: Jean-Michel Cazabat, available at BlueFly for $207; Sunglasses: H&M, available at H&M for $6.

3.Rag & Bone Scarf

The sweet pastels in this Rag & Bone scarf are balanced out by a tribal-inspired pattern, making it a versatile wardrobe staple.

Rag & Bone scarf, available at Rag & Bone for $137.

4.Outfit: Rag & Bone Scarf

This scarf is just as bohemian as it is feminine, so play up both attributes with pieces that are soft and effortless.

Skirt: Antik Batik, available at My Wardrobe for $173; Shirt: H&M, available at H&M for $8; Shoes: Steve Madden, available at DSW for $50; Sunglasses: Topshop, available at Topshop for $32; Bag: Madewell, available at Madewell for $245; Bracelet: Dorothy Perkins, available at Dorothy Perkins for $20.

5.Forever 21 Scarf

Forever 21's tribal printed scarf is on-trend and just plain fun. The tassels, the subtle pops of color, the lightweight fabric -- this just might be our new summer go-to.

Forever 21 scarf, available at Forever 21 for $7.

6.Outfit: Forever 21 Scarf

Don't be afraid to mix patterns and colors. This printed scarf is perfect for a risk-taker because its colors are subtle and its pattern isn't too busy.

Shirt: Proenza Schouler, available at La Garconne for $193; Shorts: Acne, available at Net-a-Porter for $396; Shoes: Paloma Barceló, available at Net-a-Porter for $315; Sunglasses: Topshop, available at Topshop for $36; Bag: Alexander Wang, available at ShopBop for $875; Bracelets: Dannijo, available at Net-a-Porter for $465; Hat: Michael Stars, available at Urban Minx for $67.

7.Dorothy Perkins Scarf

The fruit print on this Dorothy Perkins scarf is reminiscent of the zesty prints that Stella McCartney revealed at Paris Fashion Week last October -- except for one tiny detail: we can actually afford this.

Dorothy Perkins scarf, available at Dorothy Perkins for $19.

8.Outfit: Dorothy Perkins Scarf

This is a bold -- or should we say, juicy -- print and it deserves to be worn with an equally eye-catching outfit. You don't want to go too crazy, though, so here's a tip: try to tone things down with a more conservative print, like stripes, and a few subtle accessories.

Shirt: Hope, available at La Garconne for $90; Pants: Ksubi, available at American Rag for $170; Shoes: Stuart Weitzman, available at Luisaviaroma for $366; Bag: Rebecca Minkoff, available at Bluefly for $330; Sunglasses: All Saints, available at All Saints for $45; Bracelet: Dannijo, available at Dannijo for $288.

9.Alexander McQueen Scarf

No printed scarf collection would be complete without paying homage to Alexander McQueen's iconic skull-print.

Alexander McQueen scarf, available at Net-a-Porter for $445.

10.Outfit: Alexander McQueen Scarf

A print this dreary needs to be balanced with a light, airy color palette. Don't ignore the edgy pattern, though: heighten the drama of the motif by adding an androgynous flair with a pair of bulky oxfords.

Dress: Enza Costa, available at Far Fetch for $426; Shoes: Bass, available at Nordstrom for $65; Hat: O'Neill, available at Swell for $32; Bag: Reiss, available at Reiss for $310; Sunglasses: Karen Walker, available at La Garconne for $180.