Note : This blog contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I genuinely believe in and use myself. Your support helps keep this blog running, and I truly appreciate it.
When it comes to holiday dressing, I think glamour. And when it comes to glamour, I think Old Hollywood. Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, Dorothy Dandridge. Not only are they some of the famous faces forever gracing my fashion mood board, but they can also be considered the clique of inspiration behind this season’s chicest silhouette—the scarf dress. Slinky in nature and defined by its daintily draped fabric addition, the scarf dress is pretty much as it sounds: a dress that features a matching scarf, styled just so around the wearer’s neck that it trails behind to add some swish with every step.
The look is elegant (or as the kids might say, “demure”), classy and, much to my vintage-loving heart’s delight, making quite the comeback. Scarlett Johansson stepped out in the style earlier this year at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, and budget-friendly brands like Reformation and Abercrombie & Fitch have since put out their own spins on it, meaning you don’t have to spend serious bucks to get the old school starlet aesthetic.
Whether you’re gearing up for a lineup of festive fetes or searching for the perfect black tie wedding guest dress, these scarf-topped frocks will have you looking like a blast from red carpets past—in the *best* way, of course.
1. Abercrombie & Fitch Strapless Scarf Dress
Slip-style dresses can sometimes appear shapeless, but this stunning satin number features darting at the bust to supply some subtle structure, along with a zip-back closure to ensure a secure fit—both of which you’ll appreciate if you choose to don it sans the included, but detachable, straps. And you don’t just have to take my word for it. “Very flattering and perfect strapless dress. Actually has support and doesn't fall down,” one 5-star reviewer assures, so you can simply throw on the matching scarf and confidently be on your way.
2. COS Scarf-Detail Linen Dress
I’m truly swooning over the one-shoulder silhouette and asymmetrical styling of this version of the design, which sees the scarf detail attached at the neck and draped elegantly to the side. Between its straight fit and lightweight, 100 percent linen construction, it should keep you feeling cool and comfortable while you mix and mingle this party season. In true Old Hollywood style, it may require the assistance of a dramatic faux fur coat to keep you warm en route—not that that’s a bad thing.
3. Reformation Julianna Cashmere Scarf Sweater Dress
This may very well be one of the chicest sweater dresses I’ve ever seen. Crafted entirely of cashmere (95 percent of which has been recycled), this knit take on the trend is guaranteed to be as cozy as it is luxurious. The scarf accent is particularly unique in that it crosses over to create an asymmetrical cutout on one shoulder before wrapping around and falling over the other. Meanwhile, the all-over ribbing should perfectly hug your curves and help to elongate your figure. (Thank you, vertical lines!)
4. NBD The Violetta Dress
Let’s just say you’ll be ready for your closeup in this siren song of a scarf-neck number. It’s made from a body-skimming blend of viscose and elastane, which is enough to supply the va-va-voom. But the real wow-factor lies in the low, cowl-draped back that’s beautifully complemented by the single tendril of fabric flowing behind. A traditional bra won’t work with this backless beauty, though you could easily employ some stick-on cups or nipple covers if you need them.
5. ASTR The Label Satin Scarf Minidress
The shorter the hemline, the more modern the look—but that doesn’t mean this mini scarf dress is any less glam than its longer counterparts. Its leg-baring length is offset by its voluminous, single-shoulder long sleeve, and, of course, its wraparound neck covering that adds a dash of sophistication. Still, its satiny sheen and flouncy skirt makes it as ready to hit the dance floor as you are this holiday season.