What to look for in an investment scarf: 6 key tips
An investment piece is a designer fashion item that stands the test of time in both style and value. And making a smart choice from the beginning will ensure your luxury piece will keep giving back to you for years to come.
Here’s how to get started…
When it comes to investing in luxury fashion, scarves, handbags and accessories are the best place to start.
While clothes can quickly date or deteriorate, the right scarf, handbag or piece of jewellery will maintain its quality and hold its value, giving you the best return on your investment.
This week we’re focusing on luxury scarves. There’s a reason why a high-end quality scarf is an essential in any contemporary wardrobe. They are versatile, eye catching and add interest to any outfit. Whether you opt for neutral tones or a bright pop of colour, scarves have the power to effortlessly elevate your look. This winter we’ve seen cashmere, wool and cotton blend scarves, often oversized and worn loosely across the neck and shoulders. Longer, rectangular shaped scarves in finer fabrics are perfect for upcoming trans-seasonal styling, along with the classic silk twill square-shaped scarf which can be worn loosely or as a neck tie.
Luxury scarves represent quality, craftsmanship and timeless style. They're not only a great addition to your wardrobe, they instantly add individuality and personal style to your look. Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Madonna and even Queen Elizabeth have all sported scarves, exuding very different personal styles for different situations. Closer to home, you only need to watch one episode of Offspring to see how Nina Proudman (Asher Keddie) effortlessly radiates contemporary style with the addition of a scarf to her outfits. Bravo, wardrobe team!
When chosen correctly, scarves can also be highly collectable and hold their resale value on the market. So here are 6 key tips to choosing the right investment scarf.
Looking to buy an investment scarf? 6 key tips to making the right choice.
- Choose quality fabrics
This may seem like a no-brainer but when deciding on an investment scarf, the fundamental thing to get right is choosing a quality fabric. Silk and cashmere are the standouts. They are the fabrics of choice by the top scarf designers because they are breathable, light and surprisingly durable. And, of course they feel wonderful against the skin.
- Think about your colour palette
For cooler months, scarves crafted from cashmere blends in neutral colours never go out of fashion. Think Burberry’s trans-seasonal collection of lightweight cashmere scarves in stone, oatmeal, charcoal, navy checks. For silk scarves, feel free to embrace crisp, bright colours, patterns and prints. Themes of luxury scarves can often be commemorative, with designs ranging from classic motifs such as equestrian, military, nautical to softer styles around nature, botanicals, mythology. For a more adventurous edge, opt for animal prints, geometric or abstract designs or a bold monochrome.
- The devil’s in the detail
For the classic square silk scarves, choose items which have been silk screened by hand and hand-stitched. A true measure of authenticity is a hand-rolled edge which is beautifully finished. Perhaps the most famous of all silk scarves is the Hermes scarf which takes six months to produce. It’s fascinating to watch the screen printing process of these masterpieces, all done in France. This level of detail and craftsmanship is reflected in the price and quality.
- Watch for limited editions or waitlisted items
A design house or luxury brand may release a specific design only once. This is often the case when there has been a collaboration with an artist or designer. These editions are highly collectable and sought after, attracting a cult-like status. For limited editions, the signature of the artist or designer will often feature on the scarf itself, a good way to check for authenticity when you’re buying. Obviously, when items are part of a limited edition, there are less on the market and they will hold their value better into the future. Some people prize their luxury scarves so much they frame them to hang in their home. Luxury fashion meets contemporary art!
- Keep your packaging
Hold onto everything that was part of the purchase of your investment scarf. Keeping your box and packaging attracts a higher resale value and also proves the legitimacy and authenticity of your item. Don’t throw anything away!
- Care is key
Taking good care of your scarf is critical. Make sure you store your scarves in the boxes they came in. The acid-proof paper inside the box is a perfect environment for when you’re not wearing your scarf. Avoid wearing your scarf on a rainy day, dry clean only and never press the edges with a hot iron. Avoid wearing clips, rings, pins or brooches with your scarf. Pulled threads, tears and stains will greatly affect the value of your item. After you’ve worn your scarf, let it breathe over night before folding and putting away.
I hope this article has been helpful for when you decide to buy your own investment scarf. Scarves truly are a beautiful item to add to your personal collection. You can view our amazing range of designer scarves available for purchase, which include Hermès, Christian Dior, Prada, Louis Vuitton and more. Good luck and let us know how you go!
Over to you…
Have you considered buying an investment scarf?
We’d love to hear about your experience in the comments below.
xx Claire
