Who doesn’t love a great scarf? The scarf is one of the most versatile accessories in a wardrobe and can take on a starring or supporting role in an outfit. The right scarf can tie together disparate elements for a cohesive look, or it can blossom against a blank canvas.

A scarf in a festive or fancy design also can add just the right amount of flair to a holiday outfit. Plus, scarves make great gifts because everybody can wear them, and they’re easy to make! The scarves shown here have a contemporary Asian flavor because I use vintage kimono fabrics to make them. But different fabric choices can take your own scarves in any design direction.

These scarves feature long, rectangular bodies and have shaped and faced pieces on the ends that act as fringes. The fringes are good areas to dress up your design with applique, beading, brooches, or charms. Make each side of the fringe pieces in contrasting colors, and vary the sizes and shapes to flatter your figure. Lois Ericson shows you how to create these unique scarves that take otherwise simple clothing into artistic realms in this article from Quick Stuff to Sew, Vol.5.