How to wear autumn’s regal scarf print trend

One of Her Majesty’s favourite accessories is big news

Richard Quinn Autumn/Winter 2018 (Getty)

The Queen’s Balmoral look served as inspiration for many designers this season with an impressive amount of tweed hitting the runway.

But, as iconic as Her Majesty’s off-duty style is, it was the Queen’s love affair with the Hermès silk scarf that really captured the attention of the fashion circle.

Paying tribute to the monarch, who coincidentally sat front row at his show, young Peckham designer Richard Quinn created a collection full of outerwear, silk headscarves and vibrant floral prints that he called “a tongue in cheek take on Balmoral, but done my way.”

Quinn, who won the inaugural Queen Elizabeth II Award for British Design in February, channelled his benefactor’s personal style with a heady dose of irony, presenting everything from handkerchief-hem dresses to paisley patterned morphsuits that covered the models from head-to-toe.

The young designer wasn’t the only one to make a case for the return of maximalism though. At Marine Serre, cliché scarf patterns were transformed into slinky dresses and flowing skirts, while Faustine Steinmetz showcased a brilliant collection of patchwork frocks and tunics.

Similarly, Japanese label Toga used the loud print to tame model’s flyaway hairs, decorate blouses and skirts, and weave into tailored suit jackets.

Scarf Print Pini Dress, £55, Topshop

With the new season trend for earthy tones setting a minimalist mood for autumn/winter, scarf prints will be a welcome dose of colour for those who like to make a statement.

And the good news is that high-street brands such as Zara, Asos and Topshop are also getting in on the action.

Cream Scarf Leopard Print T-Shirt, £20, River Island

Not sure how to wear it? Silky shirts will make a stylish addition to your “nice top and jeans” catalogue, while the versatile midi dress becomes a statement piece in clashing scarf prints.

Alternatively, you can incorporate the trend as it was first intended; with a scarf. For maximum style points, we suggest wearing yours as a neckerchief layered over fine turtle neck knits or tying to your favourite black bag for extra flair.

Pleated Scarf with Chain Print, £9.99, Zara

Chain Print Pleated Skirt, £79.99, Zara

Black Baroque Print Wrap Front Bodysuit, £19.99, New Look