Neck scarf dresses are the standout hit for occasion wear this spring says one celebrity stylist


Who knew a neck scarf dress could be so flattering. Here are our top choices for wedding guest season or for a day at the races. Take your pick.


best scarf neck dresses for women as modelled by fashion star Isabel Tan© Getty Images

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Leanne Bayley
Leanne BayleyDirector of Lifestyle & Commerce
Updated: February 26, 2026
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We're in full occasion wear dressing mode right now. The special events are in full swing, 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. 

The scarf dress is having a TikTok moment© TikTok
The scarf dress is having a TikTok moment

I reached out to celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson, who is fully invested in the trend. She told me: "From the runway, to the 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 accessorised the scarf dress she rented from Hurr with a pair of statement crystal earrings which she matched perfectly to the colour of her bag© Ellis Ranson
Celebrity stylist Ellis Ranson accessorised the scarf dress she rented from Hurr with a pair of statement crystal earrings which she matched perfectly to the colour of her bag

In 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

best neck scarf dresses - as seen on Olivia Rodrigo © Instagram
Olivia Rodrigo wore a Rixo scarf dress - kickstarting a major occasion wear trend
Who can forget Princess Diana's iconic Cannes Film Festival dress with the unique neck scarf detail? © WireImage
Who can forget Princess Diana's iconic Cannes Film Festival dress with the unique neck scarf detail?
I'm obsessed with Laura Harrier's black Saint Laurent dress with neck scarf accessory© WireImage
I'm obsessed with Laura Harrier's black Saint Laurent dress with neck scarf accessory

How 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 spring we're after more colourful shades in light fabrics with a bit of stretch, making them ideal for event dressing.

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

1/14

Rixo Hayley Silk Midi Dress

Rixo Hayley Silk Midi Dress© Rixo
  • Scarf is detachable 
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

If you're after something a little different - this dress is just gorgeous. Crafted from a lustrous silk and with a romantic detachable scarf that trails down the open back, the Hayley dress is butterfly mix print with a classic leopard print for a little twist.

2/14

Friends Like These Brown Spot Satin Scarf Midi Dress

Friends Like These Brown Spot Satin Scarf Midi Dress© Friends Like These
  • Scarf is attached but can be worn various ways
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

This satin midi dress is sculpted to a sleek one shoulder silhouette that is complemented with a matching satin scarf - so gorgeous. Perfect for a day at the races or a wedding. 

3/14

The A&F Giselle Strapless Scarf Babydoll Maxi Dress

The A&F Giselle Strapless Scarf Babydoll Maxi Dress© A&F
  • Scarf is detachable 
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

If you're going to a spring wedding this would be a gorgeous option - and you can style with a black or burgundy oversized blazer if it's a little chilly. Trust me when I say this will sell out fast. 

4/14

Monsoon Margo Drop Waist Wedding Dress & Scarf

Monsoon Margo Drop Waist Wedding Dress & Scarf© Monsoon
  • Detachable scarf
  • Model wears: UK 8/EU 36/ US 4

Editor's Note:

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.

5/14

OddMuse London The Ultimate Muse Drape Maxi Scarf Dress

OddMuse London The Ultimate Muse Drape Maxi Scarf Dress© OddMuse London
  • Detachable scarf
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

This dress has been so popular, it's now back and in more colourways. I love the sage green, and the black and the chocolate brown. Actually, I love them all. The dress features a soft and flattering cowl neckline and a low back, adding a touch of romance thanks to the unique neck scarf. This is perfect for a bridesmaid dress or a wedding guest dress.

6/14

Club L London 'Charly' Maxi Scarf Dress

club l london black scarf dress© Club L London
  • Detachable scarf
  • Helpful size guide provided

Editor's Note:

This edit might have too many black dresses in but I just saw this one and loved it so much. 

The sleek, fluid silhouette is designed to captivate. Crafted from premium black satin, this maxi dress drapes beautifully with a soft, luminous sheen. Other colours are available. 

7/14

Omnes Myla Dress in Deep Wine

Omnes Myla Dress in Deep Wine© Omnes
  • Detachable scarf
  • This is designed for plus size shoppers - goes up to a size 20

Editor's Note:

I don't need to tell you that burgundy is still trending as we move into spring - and this dress looks fashionable and comfortable - the perfect balance of the two. Wear for vacay or for play, you won't regret buying this one.

8/14

Rixo 'Hayley' Silk Scarf Dress

Rixo 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. 

9/14

ARRANGE x ASOS Scarf Neck Draped Navy Maxi Dress

ARRANGE x ASOS Scarf Neck Draped Navy Maxi Dress© ARRANGE
  • Scarf is attached
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

If you feel a little self conscious about the tummy area, this dress will be the perfect occasion wear saviour thanks to the ruching across the middle. 

The cowl back and the tassel detail ensures this is a real showstopper dress. 

10/14

Reformation 'Oren' Silk Dress With Neck Scarf

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.

11/14

ASOS x Fashionkilla Slinky Scarf Detail Maxi Dress

ASOS X Fashionkilla double sculpted slinky scarf detail maxi dress in black© ASOS
  • Detachable scarf
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

I am swooning over this black dress from ASOS. Not only does it look way more expensive than it is, it's perfect for a whole host of events. From a prom dress look to a wedding black tie guest outfit, special birthday, or even a night out on holiday.

12/14

Mango Red Scarf Dress

Mango Red Scarf Dress© Mango
  • Scarf is attached but can be worn flowing
  • Sexy style

Editor's Note:

Mango's red scarf dress is ideal for a transitional dress option. It features a midaxi cut is perfect for those who want to stand out with a bold and chic look on any special occasion.

13/14

Club L London 'Freesia' Plum Scarf Neck Dress

Club L London 'Freesia' Plum Scarf Neck Dress© Club L London
  • Detachable scarf
  • Fits true to size according to online reviews

Editor's Note:

The 'Freesia' dress is a show stopping maxi that's 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 drama, and the plum colour really pops.

14/14

Reiss Brown Scarf Neck Dress

Reiss Brown Scarf Neck Dress© Reiss
  • 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 stunning dress from Reiss might be just what you're after. I would team with gold jewellery and a gold bag to match the luxe brown tone of the dress.

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