If you’re looking for a good, affordable scarf this season, you could do worse than by going with one of Johnston’s of Elgin’s at Sierra Trading Post. Made in the UK from soft cashmere, they’re commonly discounted by 50-60% off retail. Add to that one of Sierra Trading Post’s daily coupons – which you can get through their DealFlyer newsletter or by checking their Facebook page – and you’re look at about $30 for a great scarf.
Their most basic scarves include these solid-colored and tartan pieces, but if you can pony up the extra cash, I recommend going with something slightly bigger (see here and here for examples). More fabric means being able to wrap something around your neck a few times, rather than just relying on the Euro knot demonstrated here. That knot is perfectly doable with a sixty-four inch scarf, but for anything else, you’ll want something closer to seventy.
Of course, if you really want to splurge, Drake’s makes 71″ x 15″ cashmere scarves that are absolutely incredible. The larger size allows them to fold and drape in more interesting ways, while the loose weave keeps things from being too bulky. At $225, they’re pricey purchases, but also the ones I reach for most when running out the door. For something in between these two worlds, check out Drake’s merino pieces.