We're in full occasion wear dressing mode right now. The special events are in full swing, and if you're looking for a last minute fabulous dress for your next event, you might want to carry on reading.
As someone who spends a LOT of time on Instagram and TikTok, I've noticed a real trend that's emerging right now, and that's the neck scarf dress.
© TikTokI reached out to celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson, who is fully invested in the trend. She told me: "From the runway, to the 2025 Oscars, we have seen a lot of scarf neck dresses, so it’s no surprise they are now all over the high street and the perfect wedding guest style."
© Ellis RansonIn my personal opinion, the scarf neck dress is great for photographs when you're at a special occasion, because let's be honest, nailing the perfect photo is no mean feat but the neck scarf provides a point of reference for the camera.
Ellis agrees, telling me: "From a styling point, the scarf draws attention to your neck and the top of your dress making that the focus of the look and extra flattering."
I knew there was a reason why I loved this dress trend so much.
Celebrities wearing scarf dresses - the styling inspiration you might like
© Instagram
© WireImage
© WireImageHow I chose the best scarf dresses for women
- Flattering: I want this to be a trendy edit but I also want to make sure the scarf dresses will be flattering, too. From slinky designs to more loose fitting looks, I wanted them to flatter a variety of body shapes.
- Cost: I don't want to include lots of expensive dresses but I also want to promote brands I know and love. I will no doubt stick to the high street and some favourite brands that I trust.
- Fabric: In autumn we're after more rich colours in soft-touch fabrics with a bit of stretch, making them ideal for event dressing.
- Wedding guest scarf dress editor's pick: The A&F Julia Slip Scarf Floral Maxi Dress, £90 / $120
- Bridal scarf dress editor's pick: Monsoon x The India Edit 'Tara' Dress, £128 / $173
- TikTok trending scarf dress editor's pick: The Ultimate Muse Maxi Dress, £165 / $250
- Black tie dress editor's pick: Club L London 'Kylie' Maxi Scarf Dress, £165 / $270
- Plus size scarf dress editor's pick: Omnes Myla Dress in Deep Wine, £120 / $208
- Celeb approved scarf dress editor's pick: Rixo 'Hayley' Silk Scarf Dress, £365 / $575
How to style the scarf dress
Ellis, who works with an array of celebrity clients including Dani Dyer and Ferne McCann, says she loves the drama that comes with a scarf dress. "I’ve always loved to have fun with fashion," she says. "Bringing the '70s into our evening glam is a great way to play around with your styling. The simplest dress can always need that extra something, usually it being the way you accessorise - so this is an added bonus to give your look a polished, styled finish."
With the scarf dress, you might want to ditch the necklace, but a great pair of statement earrings can really amp up the drama around the face. It's also a good idea to wear your hair up or swept to one side so that you can see more of the detail of the dress.
Best scarf dresses for women
1/14
The A&F Julia Slip Scarf Floral Maxi Dress
© A&F- Scarf is detachable
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
If you're going to a autumnal wedding this would be a gorgeous option - and you can style with a black oversized blazer. Trust me when I say this will sell out fast.
2/14
Monsoon x The India Edit 'Tara' Drop Waist Maxi Dress
© Monsoon- Detachable scarf
- Model wears: UK 8/EU 36/ US 4
Editor's Note:
Another bridal suggestion, but you don't have to be getting married to wear this dress, though I wouldn't advise you to wear this to a wedding as a guest, you may get odd looks.
This dress is designed with a dropped waist, maxi length hem and comes with an elegant chiffon scarf to drape and style however you wish.
3/14
OddMuse London The Ultimate Muse Drape Maxi Scarf Dress
© OddMuse London- Detachable scarf
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
This dress has been so popular, it's now back and in more colourways. I love the sage green, and the black and the chocolate brown. Actually, I love them all. The dress features a soft and flattering cowl neckline and a low back, adding a touch of romance thanks to the unique neck scarf. This is perfect for a bridesmaid dress or a wedding guest dress.
4/14
Club L London 'Kylie' Maxi Scarf Dress
© Club L London- Detachable scarf
- Helpful size guide provided
Editor's Note:
This edit might have too many black dresses in but I just saw this one and loved it so much.
The fitted dress features a softly draped neckband, this elegant piece flows into a corseted bodice that cinches the waist with sculpted precision. The sheer skirt adds a whisper of drama.
5/14
Omnes Myla Dress in Deep Wine
© Omnes- Detachable scarf
- This is designed for plus size shoppers - goes up to a size 20
Editor's Note:
I don't need to tell you that burgundy is the colour of the season - and this one ooks fashionable and comfortable - the perfect balance of the two. Wear for vacay or for play, you won't regret buying this one.
6/14
Rixo 'Hayley' Silk Scarf Dress
© Rixo- Scarf is detachable
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
Cast your mind back to when Olivia Rodrigo wore the Rixo dress of the summer (photographed at the top of this page). The dress has lived rent-free in my mind ever since. It's still available in some sizes, but now there's a brand new colour way and I think it would be gorgeous for a special occasion or a dreamy vacay.
7/14
ARRANGE x ASOS Scarf Neck Draped Navy Maxi Dress
© ARRANGE- Scarf is attached
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
If you feel a little self conscious about the tummy area, this dress will be the perfect occasion wear saviour thanks to the ruching across the middle.
The cown back and the tassel detail ensures this is a real showstopper dress.
8/14
Reformation 'Oren' Silk Dress With Neck Scarf
© Reformation- Detachable neck scarf
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
The Reformation 'Oren' scarf detail dress is so stylish and would look incredible for a special occasion such as a wedding. I'd recommend opting for gold sandals and gold Celine sunglasses to complete the look.
9/14
Boohoo Petite Satin Jacquard Cowl Scarf Neck Fringe Midi Slip Dress
© Boohoo- Detachable scarf
- This is designed for petite shoppers
Editor's Note:
If you're looking for a dress that you'll want to wear for years to come, this is it. The luxurious satin jacquard fabric catches the light beautifully, whilst the cowl neckline drapes gracefully to create a feminine silhouette. The matching fringed scarf can be wrapped around the neck for a sophisticated evening look, or draped over one shoulder for a more relaxed approach.
10/14
ASOS x Fashionkilla Slinky Scarf Detail Maxi Dress
© ASOS- Detachable scarf
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
I am swooning over this black dress from ASOS. Not only does it look way more expensive than it is, it's perfect for a whole host of events. From a prom dress look to a wedding black tie guest outfit, special birthday, or even a night out on holiday.
11/14
Mango Green Scarf Dress
© Mango- Scarf is detachable
- Flattering style with long sleeves
Editor's Note:
Mango's scarf dress is ideal for a transitional dress option. It features a midaxi cut and the long sleeves are semi sheer which is super flattering (and will keep you warm but not too warm). It's perfect for those who want to stand out with a bold and chic look on any special occasion.
12/14
PrettyLittleThing Red Scarf Maxi Dress
© PrettyLittleThing- Detachable scarf
- Model wears size UK 8/ EU 36/ AUS 8/ US 4
Editor's Note:
Enter your next occasion in style with this bold red scarf detail maxi dress. Made from a chiffon material with scarf detailing, a strapless design and a flattering maxi fit, how can you resist?
13/14
Club L London 'Freesia' Plum Scarf Neck Dress
© Club L London- Detachable scarf
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
The 'Freesia' dress is a show stopping maxi that's designed to turn heads. This dress contours your curves with a sleek, sculpting fit while ensuring all day comfort. The scarf adds a touch of drama, and the plum colour really pops.
14/14
Reiss Brown Scarf Neck Dress
© Reiss- Scarf is attached but can be worn various ways
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
If you're not a fan of pastels or bright colours, this stunning dress from Reiss might be just what you're after. I would team with gold jewellery and a gold bag to match the luxe brown tone of the dress.
