Women's Scarf Trends for Winter 2011

Scads of scarves are in style this season, from basic knits to elaborate designs. Just as this year's fall season was a mixture of trends, winter promises to be an eclectic season. From ruffles to menswear to patterned pieces, several trends have made their way onto outerwear accessories. Here's a look at some of the women's scarf trends for winter 2011.

Ruffles

Ruffles were big in 2010. They first popped up on poetic blouses and sundresses during the spring/summer season, then moved on to coats and boots as temperatures dropped. For winter, it looks like ruffles and ruched looks will be all over scarves. These ruffles also don't appear to be as demure as the ones seen throughout the past year. Instead of small, neat ruffles at hems and as accents, this season's ruffled scarves are statement pieces.

Animal Prints

Another holdover from the fall 2010 season, animal prints are all over scarves this year. Many feature classic animal prints in their signature shades, such as black and white for zebra or tan and dark brown or black for cheetah. Colored animal prints are also back in fashion, mixing animal print with bright tones like raspberry and cobalt blue. Those bright colors will really stand out against this year's neutral coats, or provide a slight contrast and interest with fall/winter's jewel tones.

Prints

Even beyond the animal prints, there are a huge number of printed scarves for sale this season. Most years, scarf patterns only go as far as stripes and plaids, with the occasional snowflake pattern. This winter, loud prints are everywhere. From ikat styles not seen since their last big hurrah towards the end of the last decade to florals and geometric shapes, there's a printed scarf for every woman's style.

Herringbone

The chevron shape of herringbone tweed is a popular scarf style this winter. Seen in everything from a classic tweedy gray to lipstick red, this is an updated version of the basic cable-knit scarf. Though elegant, the herringbone style can look a little busy with too much embellishment - so don't expect more than a little fringed trim with this one. This style pairs well with conservative styles for day, but could also add interest to an evening outfit in when worn in a bold color.