One of the biggest misconceptions about scarves these days is that they’re meant for fashion obsessed women and emasculated wimps. No. Certainly scarves aren’t meant for us manly men! Right?! Wrong.

Some of the manliest men in history can be seen wearing scarves, most notably soldiers and high-class citizens. Scarves show power. They show dominance. They show bad assery.

Believe it or not, according to The Art of Manliness, scarves have been a part of men’s fashion for over 2,000 years. Although, scarves weren’t EXACTLY purposed for fashion back then, militaries all over the world have used them to provide comfort as well as to designate units and ranks.

For example, scarves were an essential winter accessory for soldiers during World War I. Pilots considered scarves essential for warmth in high altitudes as well as for padding their necks as they surveyed the skies, shooting down enemy planes.

Even very early in history, terra-cotta statues of Chinese soldiers were buried with Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China. These statues can all be seen sporting scarves to denote their rank. If the emperor wasn’t buried wearing a scarf, then at least he had an entire army of bitchin’, scarf wearing statues buried with him for protection in the afterlife.

Additionally, some of the manliest men in Hollywood have been spotted wearing scarves. John Wayne. Bruce Willis. Daniel Craig in James Bond. Even Al Pacino, the Godfather himself, dons a dark red scarf around his neck in his older, more sophisticated age. A scarf can easily portray strength and character.

If not for simply fashionable reasons, let’s face it, it’s been pretty damn cold out lately. Showing off your masculinity by trying to brave the cold without proper neckwear will only land you a one-way ticket to bed, sipping on chicken noodle soup and calling for your mother. There’s nothing manly about that, sir, so pay attention. It’s time to get schooled.

SO…WHAT KIND OF SCARF SHOULD I WEAR?

When it comes to manly scarves, there’s no need to go overboard. Keep it simple. Your scarf should be 6-14 inches wide and roughly 50-90 inches long, depending on how tall you are. There’s no need for overly frilly or beaded scarves. There is never a situation in which a man should wear a scarf pin, and your scarf should be made out of some sort of cloth. If it’s somewhat see-through and looks like something your grandmother would wear to church, don’t wear it.

Your scarf should come from a neutral or earthy color palette. Black and various shades of gray or brown are perfect for those men out there who are just new to wearing scarves. However, injecting some color into your outfit will help you stand out as an individual, rather than blending in with the crowd. Earthy reds and greens are nice choices for men as well as naval blues. Toned down plaids, tartan or other patterned designs may also be acceptable depending on your personality. Generally speaking, a man wants to stay away from bright colors and animal prints. Because, you know…fuck animal prints. Right?

OKAY, GREAT! HOW DO I WEAR IT THOUGH?

Again, keep it simple. Going overboard with the scarf knot you choose to tie runs you the risk of appearing too pompous or snooty. And nobody likes a pretentious snob.

First off, a scarf is not a tie. It should be loose and comfortable, not tight and stifling. Your scarf should make you feel self-assured, not as though you’re being hanged.

Secondly, tie your scarf however you feel represents you best. Some guys will simply drape one over the back of their necks. Others may loosely wrap it around their necks. Some may get a bit fancier, tying “Parisian” knots or Overhand (Ascot) knots. Again, it’s all about comfort. Style comes second, though I’m sure you’ll find that a quality, well-worn scarf will not only boost your confidence as a man, but also gain the admirable attention of a few passerbys as well.

Pretty much, given the opportunity, try one on and see how it feels. Remember, this is going to be YOUR scarf. It will designate YOUR rank in society. It will show the world that YOU are a fashionably aware, sophisticated citizen. And ultimately, it will provide YOU with comfort. That’s what it’s all about, so give it a shot, champ. You’ve got this.

Like this article? Why not like us as well? Find of Iron & Oak on Facebook and Twitter! And, as always, feel free to express your comments, concerns or funny stories in the comments below. Look good. Live well. Of Iron & Oak.