Forget the IT jeans, the soft fur collars, and the trendy must have bags. There’s a new accessory in town and I’ve fallen for it, hard. The skinny scarf is the kind of soft, versatile, edgy accessory that fashion dreams are made of. Fashionistas beware: serious addiction lies herein.

This scarf should come with a warning label. Its wearability is so overwhelmingly potent it hurts. Celebrities like Jessica Simpson, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Serena Williams, and Terri Hatcher have all fallen, too. I can’t think of a single outfit this scarf doesn’t work well with. Jessica Simpson has been wrapping the skinny scarf around her neck in loose circles for a fun, flirty feeling with her military inspired jackets and boots. Terri Hatcher has been seen wearing it with a velvet blazer and comfortable, flat shoes. The best part of this accessory is its accessibility for every woman. Ettie (a star favorite) makes an ultra-elite version, while Target, Mandee, Forever 21, and Bluefly offer versions for a mere pittance.

The skinny scarf comes in all your favorite materials including ultra luxurious cashmeres, satins, silks, and velvets. This is the ultimate key accessory to keep your wardrobe fresh and up to date through the cold winter months. I suggest trying the skinny scarf in one or all of several ways.
· For a sleek, professional look, drape the scarf loosely over your shoulders and wrap twice
around your neck in opposing directions. Make sure the ends are not even, it is supposed to be a messy-chic look.
· For a sexy, downtown vibe use the scarf as a hip sash. This look works with almost all outfits, dressed up or dressed down, and is especially flattering on women with a toned midsection. Simply wrap the skinny scarf around your hips one to two times and secure on either the left or right side of the hip. I suggest either tying the scarf into a loose, messy bow or using one of last season’s rhinestone brooches to keep the sash in place.
· If Boho is more your style, work this scarf into your existing wardrobe of tattered denim, flat boots, big sunglasses (who cares if it’s not sunny!) and tawny cheeks.

Just remember these essentials when putting your skinny scarf look together:
· The scarf should be at least four feet long and no more than eight inches wide.
· Choose colors that make you feel sexy and confident. I recommend vibrant oranges and deep greens because they highlight all skin tones and hair colors.
· Or, try a bold and exciting multicolor version!
· Be brave and try it with dresses, skirts, round-toe heels, chunky waist belts, boots, and the new Victorian blouses.

Where to get a new skinny scarf:
· Ettie (about $136), can be found at www.Ettie.net
· Ebay (ranges from $3 to $60 depending on the brand)
· Bluefly.com or Mandee.com
· Gap (14.99- 19.50 depending on style and color)
· Ann Taylor ($58-68 depending on intricacy)
(for the best value, check out H&M stores)

Bryce Gruber is a contributing writer to Shebrew Magazine. She has owned and operated two women’s high-end clothing and accessories boutiques.