How To Style A Mens Topcoat With A Scarf

The persian knot

As September approaches, retailers are unveiling their fall collections, making it the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe for the cooler months ahead. 

The men's topcoat is a versatile outerwear option that pairs beautifully with a variety of scarves.

Accessorizing with a scarf and topcoat can refine your look for any setting, from formal events to casual outings, while keeping you warm.

Here’s a guide on how to achieve a tailored appearance with a topcoat and scarf combination, along with styling tips to ensure you look sharp during the cool seasons ahead.

Selecting the Right Men’s Scarf

The scarf you choose should complement your topcoat and the styling method. Here are the best types of scarves for each styling technique:

Styling Techniques

1. The Parisian Knot

This knot gives a chic, sophisticated appearance, perfect for both casual and formal settings.

Best Scarf Types: Medium to long scarves made of fine wool or silk.

  • How to Tie: Fold the scarf in half, drape it around your neck, and pull the ends through the loop created by the fold.

  • How It Sits: The scarf should sit snugly against your neck, with the ends hanging down evenly. This style keeps the scarf secure and provides warmth.

2. The Drape

a young man walking in motion along the sidewalk, wearing a topcoat, draped scarf, vest, and dress pants.

The Drape

This style offers a relaxed, effortless vibe, making it ideal for casual outings or laid-back office environments.

Best Scarf Types: Lightweight scarves, such as cotton or silk.

  • How to Tie: Drape the scarf around your neck, ensuring both ends hang evenly.

  • How It Sits: The scarf should rest loosely against the topcoat, with the ends falling naturally. This style is relaxed and best for milder temperatures, but it may not provide maximum warmth.

3. The Wrap-Around

The Wrap-Around

This method conveys a warm, cozy aesthetic, perfect for cold weather while maintaining a polished appearance.

Best Scarf Types: Chunky or textured scarves, like knit wool or cashmere.

  • How to Tie: Drape the scarf around your shoulders, then wrap one side around your neck and tuck it into your coat.

  • How It Sits: The scarf should sit close to your neck, with one end wrapped around and the other tucked in for a secure fit. This method is effective for blocking wind and keeping warm.

4. The Loop

an older couple wearing topcoats and scarfs, sharing a mug of hot chocolate outside.

The Loop

This style provides a classic and structured look, ideal for formal occasions or business settings.

Best Scarf Types: Long, thin scarves made of wool or cashmere.

  • How to Tie: Drape the scarf around your neck, then take one end and wrap it around your neck again.

  • How It Sits: The scarf should sit snugly around your neck, with the ends hanging down evenly. This style provides good coverage and warmth, making it ideal for colder weather.

5. The Ascot

The Ascot

This knot creates a refined and sophisticated appearance, making it perfect for formal events or upscale gatherings.

Best Scarf Types: Silk or lightweight scarves.

  • How to Tie: Drape the scarf around your neck, cross one end over the other, and pull the top end through the loop created.

  • How It Sits: The scarf should sit neatly under your coat lapels, adding a touch of elegance while keeping the neck area covered. This style is perfect for formal occasions.

Choosing the Right Topcoat

a young male model wearing a camel topcoat with a camel turtle neck and trousers

When selecting a topcoat, consider the following factors:

Material

  • Wool: A classic choice for men's topcoats, wool is known for its excellent insulation properties, making it ideal for colder weather. It offers breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities, keeping you warm without overheating. Wool is also naturally resilient, maintaining its shape and appearance over time.

  • Cashmere: This luxurious fabric is softer and warmer than regular wool, providing a higher level of comfort. Cashmere mens topcoats can be a bit more delicate, requiring careful maintenance, but they offer a refined look that is perfect for formal occasions.

  • Blends: Wool and cashmere blends combine the warmth of wool with the softness of cashmere, creating a versatile option that balances comfort and durability. These blends are often more affordable than pure cashmere while still providing a luxurious feel.

  • Cotton: Lightweight and breathable, cotton is suitable for milder weather and transitional seasons. It offers a casual look and is easy to care for, but it lacks the insulation properties of wool or cashmere, making it less ideal for colder temperatures.

  • Synthetics: Fabrics like polyester and nylon are often blended with natural fibers to enhance durability and reduce costs. While synthetic materials can be water-resistant and easy to maintain, they may not provide the same level of warmth or breathability as natural fibers. Additionally, they can trap moisture and heat, leading to discomfort in colder conditions. However, high-quality synthetics can mimic the feel of natural fibers and offer a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Fit

A well-fitted topcoat should allow for layering without feeling restrictive. Here are several ways to determine if your jacket fits well:

  • Shoulder Fit: The shoulders of the jacket should align with your natural shoulder line. If the jacket sags or droops, it’s too large; if it creates divots or feels tight, it’s too small. A properly fitting shoulder should have a clean line without any excess fabric or pulling.

  • Chest Fit: The jacket should follow the natural contour of your chest. If there are gaps or gaping at the chest, the jacket is too big. Conversely, if the jacket feels tight and restricts movement, it’s too small. Ideally, you should be able to button the jacket comfortably without straining.

  • Sleeve Length: The sleeves should end at the wrist bone, allowing for about 0.25 to 0.50 inches of your shirt cuff to show. If the sleeves cover your hands or are too short, adjustments are necessary.

  • Jacket Length: The bottom of the jacket should cover the top of your buttocks and fall around the middle of your hand when your arms are relaxed at your sides. If it’s too long or too short, it can throw off your overall silhouette.

  • Waist Fit: The jacket should nip in slightly at the waist without creating excess fabric or pulling. You should be able to pull the button away from your body by about an inch or two without feeling constricted.

  • Movement: When trying on the jacket, move your arms and shoulders. You should be able to lift your arms comfortably without feeling tight or restricted. If you experience pulling or discomfort, the fit may not be right.

Using these fit indicators, you can ensure that your topcoat looks sharp, feels comfortable, and allows for ease of movement.

Additional Tips

Layering Men’s Topcoats

When wearing a topcoat, layer with a sweater or blazer underneath for added warmth and style.

Accessorizing Your Scarf 

 Pair your outfit with gloves and a hat for a complete winter look. Choose accessories that complement your scarf and topcoat.

Maintaining Your Fall Attire

Keep your scarf and topcoat clean and well-maintained to ensure they look their best throughout the season.

Conclusion

By selecting the appropriate scarf type and ensuring it sits correctly on your topcoat, you can effortlessly enhance your winter wardrobe, ensuring you stay warm while looking sharp and sophisticated. 

If you’re in Toronto, we highly recommend consulting with our personal stylist, Eddie. He can provide expert advice on the fit of your topcoat and show you how to style it for different occasions.

men’s outerwear On The Danforth

Carpe Diem Men is located in the heart of Greektown, Toronto, at 569 Danforth Ave, an area renowned for its vibrant culture and rich history. 

Our store specializes in high-quality menswear, offering a wide selection of tailored suits, sports jackets, outerwear, accessories, and in-house tailoring services to ensure a perfect fit. 

As a destination for discerning customers, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service and a curated selection of premium brands.

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