Runway fashions aren’t always practical. Remember Alexander McQueen’s infamous Armadillo shoes? Even models had trouble walking in them. The latest not-made-for-real-life trend? Carting around a blanket in case you need a pseudo scarf.

Celine Fall 2017, Chanel Fall 2017, A.P.C. Fall 2017; Images: Imaxtree
Celine was the harbinger, enlisting multiple models to tout oversized (admittedly cozy) blankets as accessories on the runway. But the blanket scarf craze at the Fall 2017 shows wasn’t restricted to actual blankets. Chanel wrapped a few models in futuristic quilted versions that looked a bit like aluminum foil. A.P.C. skipped an actual scarf, substituting a furry jacket tied around the neck to simulate a plush neckpiece.

Au Jour Le Jour Fall 2017, Agnès b. Fall 2017, Alberta Ferretti Fall 2017; Images: Imaxtree
Go big or go home was the mantra at Au Jour Le Jour as outsize feathered boas were tucked into belts for a faux fur stole effect. Agnès b. went matchy-matchy by coordinating a poncho with a sweater (and the brand even wrapped a lightweight scarf around the neck for good measure). Alberta Ferretti’s model looked like she had just yanked a blanket off the couch in case she needed to cover up.

Street style stars blanket themselves in oversized scarves worthy of their own zip codes; Images: Imaxtree
As we’ve come to expect, street stylists were already ahead of the trend. From puffer scarves so long you could use them on your bed to embroidered ruanas that are oh so fashionable, blanket scarves are a chic way to beat the chill this season.
How to wear a blanket scarf depends on the style of the scarf. If it’s literally the size of a blanket, look for tailored pieces to cut down on the bulk. You could also favor athletic elements, such as slim hoodies and sneakers. Puffer-type scarves call for a tougher getup, like bombers and combat boots.
So, what have we learned? Blanket scarves don’t have to be actual blankets, they just need to be all-encompassing. Shop our edit of the best blanket scarves below and then refresh yourself on how to style scarves the Zara way.
[ Next: Watch: 10 Super Easy (and Cool) Ways to Tie a Scarf ]
Blanket Scarves
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Mango
Mixed Print Scarf, $49.99 at Mango
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Zara
Textured Scarf With Slogan, $35.90 at Zara
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& Other Stories
Padded Scarf, $55 at & Other Stories
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The Frankie Shop
Chunky Grey Knit Scarf, $92 at The Frankie Shop
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Madewell
Plaid Cape Scarf, $69.50 at Madewell
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Urban Outfitters
Teddy Scarf, $29 at Urban Outfitters
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Anntian
Knit Blanket, $248 at Totokaelo
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NICOPANDA + UO
Uptown Maxi Puffer Scarf, $120 at Urban Outfitters
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COS
Ribbed Roll-Neck Scarf, $125 at COS
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Seint
Oversized Blanket Scarf in Khaki, $29 at ASOS
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Holzweiler
Tableau Large Fringed Plaid Wool Scarf, $165 at Net-a-Porter
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Zara
Multicolored Striped Scarf, $25.90 at Zara
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A Peace Treaty
Mihara Pink, $285 at A Peace Treaty
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Urban Outfitters
Cozy Intarsia Blanket Scarf, $34 at Urban Outfitters
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ASOS
Oversized Long Woven Stripe Scarf, $29 at ASOS
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Madewell
Abstract Pattern Scarf, $48.75 at Nordstrom
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Sandro
Oversized Multi-Coloured Wool Scarf, $275 at Selfridges
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Wilfred
Meaux Blanket, $85.50 at Aritzia
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Acne Studios
Canada Striped Wool Scarf, $220 at Net-a-Porter
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Weekend Max Mara
Durante Scarf, $94 at Matches Fashion