Plaid cotton gauze, $125 by Rag & Bone

Organic cotton/flax stripe scarf,
$80 by Hickoree's

Indigo linen plaid scarf, $98 by Ralph Lauren

Spring
Scarves

By now, you're ready to shed all those winter layers and embrace a more basic, warm weather look. What better piece to help ease that transition than a lightweight scarf, paired with a crisp cotton blazer or simple cardigan? Choosing the right fabric is essential, and linens or soft cotton blends will keep you warm without causing you to break into a sweat. Pass on drab greys and blacks, and instead opt for a more suitable seasonal palette of yellows, reds and shades of blue. For men of true daring (and more than an ample dash of sprezz), channel the Italian practice of wearing scarves through even the most sweltering of summer months.

Spotted  
cotton scarf, $60 by Hartford

• Scarves
  first became fashionable in 19th century France.