Occasion wear dressing is in full swing now, 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
© 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 the summer we're after more lightweight, soft-touch fabrics with a bit of stretch, making them ideal for event dressing.
- Wedding guest scarf dress editor's pick: Rixo 'Hayley' Silk Scarf Dress, £365 / $575
- Bridal scarf dress editor's pick: Monsoon x The India Edit 'Tara' Dress, £160 / $278
- TikTok trending scarf dress editor's pick: The Ultimate Muse Maxi Dress, £148 / $195
- Polka dot scarf dress editor's pick: Like My Choice Maxi Dress, £44 / $59
- Plus size scarf dress editor's pick: Next x Live Unlimited Midi Dress, £109 / $191
- Petite scarf dress editor's pick: Boohoo Satin Slip Dress, £25 / $50
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
1/13
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.
2/13
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.
3/13
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.
4/13
The A&F Julia Slip Strapless Scarf Maxi Dress
© A&F- Scarf is detachable
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
If you're getting married soon - or even next year - you could grab yourself a bargain of a wedding dress. I can't believe the price of this. Sizes are selling out fast.
5/13
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 lilac dress from ASOS. Not only is it a gorgeous colour, but it's perfect for a whole host of events. From a prom dress look to a wedding guest outfit, christening, special birthday, or a holiday.
6/13
Mango Scarf Dress
© Mango- Scarf is attached but can be worn various ways
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
Mango's scarf dress is ideal for a special occasion. It features a midaxi cut (or maxi if you're short!) and the flared sleeves gives it a 70s vibe. It's perfect for those who want to stand out with a bold and chic look on any special occasion.
7/13
Next x Live Unlimited Orange Curve Floral Print Sleeveless Midi Dress with Neck Scarf
© Next- Detachable scarf
- This is designed for plus size shoppers
Editor's Note:
Who doesn't love an easy to throw-on dress? This one from Next looks fashionable and comfortable - the perfect balance of the two. Wear for vacay or for play, you won't regret buying this one.
8/13
PrettyLittleThing Blue Scarf Detail Ruched Maxi Dress
© PLT- Detachable scarf
- Model wears size UK 8/ EU 36/ AUS 8/ US 4
Editor's Note:
Enter your next occasion in style with this blue scarf detail ruched maxi dress. Made from a blue hue material with scarf detailing, a ruched design and a flattering maxi fit, how can you resist?
9/13
Like My Choice Delicate Polka Dot Print Halter Chiffon Ruffle Trim Maxi Dress With Neck Scarf
© Like My Choice- Detachable scarf
- Helpful size guide provided
Editor's Note:
Like My Choice might be a new brand to you but I thought I'd include it as this dress was just insanely beautiful. I've bought a couple of things in the past from here and I've had positive experiences.
The fitted dress features a unique polka dot print design, and it's perfect for a casual outing or a garden party.
10/13
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.
11/13
OddMuse London The Ultimate Muse Tie Neck Maxi Dress
© Odd Muse London- Detachable scarf
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
I'm sorry to say, this dress is so popular there's now a wait list but I didn't want you to miss out seeing it. The dress features a soft and flattering V-neckline that accentuates the décolletage, adding a touch of romance thanks to the unique neck scarf. This is perfect for a bridesmaid dress or a wedding guest dress.
12/13
Club L London 'Rita' Coral Scarf Neck Dress
© Club L London- Adjustable scarf
- Fits true to size according to online reviews
Editor's Note:
The Rita dress is a show stopping maxi 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 ethereal charm, while the corsage feature and gathered wrap skirt create a beautifully draped silhouette.
13/13
River Island Scarf Neck Dress
© River Island- 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 fitted dress from River Island might be just what you're after. I would team with silver jewellery and a silver bag to match the hardware on the dress.
