Scarves for nippy November

November's coming up, which means rain on the neck, and a handy scarf is an essential— but that rain can wreck fine silk, especially designs with swaths of solid colour.

In the window today, scarves that can take some weather, no matter where you live—and at reasonable prices.

Here is an example of an ideal scarf for cool weather, Princess et Dragon's merino "Entrelacs": a light but warm 70cm square, in an interesting burgundy/pink/orange palette that works with all neutrals, and—hand washable. Price, $CAN 165. A plus: this one is light enough to wear indoors. Price, $CAN 160; also made in a chic burgundy/blue/pink colourway, and grey/ecru/black. 

Photo: Princesse & Dragon

This is a cousin to the same company's Celeste, if you prefer long rectangular scarves.

Swenn's Way

An introduction to the Canadian company Swenn, founded by knitwear designer Kristell Geffroy, a woman originally from Brittany, who now lives on Prince Edward Island. As well as knits, she sells a few alluring handwoven scarves made in France by Ann Morin, her mother-in-law. This  79in/200cm x 19in./48cm squashy shawl has captured my heart. The wool/cotton blend is hand washable.

Photo: Swenn

Silk with substance

There is silk that can stand up to raindrops: kantha, the India silk scarves made from repurposed saris, which is reinforced with hand-stitching. Look for a densely-printed pattern, neat stitching and sturdy finishing; they are washable by hand, or in a machine if you use a mesh bag and wash on delicate cycle. (I use baby shampoo.)

Photo: House of Wandering Silk

A kantha (shown, in fuchsia and ink bandhini) provides surprising warmth and sparks an otherwise generic coat or jacket; their freewheeling colourway is part of their charm. Price, about $CAN 121 at House of Wandering Silk.

I had a hard time choosing just one to show you; these are beautifully-composed pieces, do have a look. 

A scarf that's a hood!

You are out running errands on foot, or walking the dog, and a breeze turns cold. Oh, why didn't I wear a hat? Anastasia of crochetknittingshop (Germany) on Etsy makes attractive cotton knit scarves that can pull up into a hood, in an assortment of colours. The price is about $CAN 88; other vendors sell  digital patterns for similar, or ones made in wool. The design is called "The Sophie" or "Tunisian hooded scarf".

Photo: crochetknittingshop, Etsy

I often hear friends say, "I have too many scarves!" However, they are the lipstick of the apparel world, an instant spirit-lifter, and a bargain compared to new outwear.  

Barbara had friends over for a bite (what she calls "girl food", dips and interesting bread) and glass of wine, put a selection of scarves on her coffee table, and invited each to choose, if she wished. Zero leftovers!

I've seen a few of these arorund; they look great and, this one being cotton, will suit those who don't wear wool.