Scarves are a fashionable woman’s secret weapon because they are both practical and decorative at once. A wardrobe is incomplete without them, and most closets should include several. Scarves work miracles year-round when it comes to layering, traveling, accessorizing and camouflaging target areas. Here are the top 5 best practices for upping your scarf game this season:

1. The essentials
   At the minimum, every wardrobe should have 5 scarves — A silk scarf for accessorizing; a pashmina for travel and evening; an infinity scarf for everyday; an extra-long, indoor-outdoor scarf; and a cotton square for outdoor activities.

2. Invest wisely
   A pashmina scarf is one of the best investments a woman can make. Made of ultra fine cashmere that’s 8 times warmer than wool, they are cozy, lightweight and rarely pill, fluff or snag. Folding up to a weightless, compact square, pashminas are perfect for travel and are as versatile as it gets — neck scarf by day, black tie shawl by night. It can even double as a blanket on redeye or transatlantic flights, so be sure it makes it into your carry on.

3. Silk scarves 101
   Never forget silk scarves are the #1 accessory with the most surprise and delight. They are at their most smashing when worn in unexpected ways — rolled up and worn as a belt; looped around the wrist like a bracelet; tied onto a handbag handle; or worn as a headscarf under a sun hat. Styling a scarf in unconventional ways amps up personal style in a big way.

   For the younger set, try a super-sized scarf as a tank top. Scarves tied ascot style — wrapped around and tied at the neck — is the most flattering way to style for older women. It combines form and function by framing the face and drawing attention up toward it, while concealing the neck and its potential signs of age.

   Shop prints that complement your wardrobe and colors that harmonize with its palette — power neutrals, accent colors, or both — to maximize the mixable-and-matchable combinations. And if a dominant hue in the pattern ties to your eye color, even better. Also consider shopping vintage brands for the most unique, classic and chic patterns. A vintage Pucci scarf is a great conversation starter!

4. Street style chic
   An oversized, chunky knit infinity scarf is the most chic of all winter scarves, delivering on maximum style with minimum fuss. Let it hang loosely around the neck for less warmth and more airflow; or loop a second time around neck to bundle up; then pull forward for an over-the-head look. All three styles are high-drama looks that elevate your outerwear street style. Make sure it’s a wool blend, though, as 100% wool infinity scarves generate too much heat.

5. Lifestyle scarves
   Narrow, extra-long knit scarves are great for everyday. Not too bulky, they transition effortlessly from outdoor to indoor, plus the long ends lengthen the silhouette. Toss over one shoulder for a front-back look or double loop around neck to style both ends in front. Make sure the ends are asymmetrical to make the most the flattering lines.

   When outdoors, the back of the neck is the most vulnerable area for sunburning so make sure there’s always a cotton scarf close by. A bandana or any handkerchief-type scarf will do, as long as it’s 100% cotton, easy care, wash and wear. Fold in half to make a triangle, then tie the ends in front so triangle covers the neck, protecting your skin as you golf, play tennis, cycle or power walk. And don’t forget sunscreen!

See BestLifeOnline.com press feature here.