When it comes to iconic fashion accessories, few pieces are as instantly recognizable as Alexander McQueen’s skull scarf.
First introduced in the brand’s Spring/Summer 2003 “Irere” collection, the scarf fused McQueen’s fascination with mortality and Victorian memento mori into a bold, graphic statement. The skull motif quickly became a signature for the house, transforming the silk scarf into a must-have for celebrities, stylists, and fashion insiders alike.
These days, you can score a skull scarf for as low as $5 on Amazon, thanks to cheap knock-offs and brands that capitalize on the skull’s popularity by producing their interpretations of the iconic accessory.
In 2013, Damien Hirst collaborated with Alexander McQueen on a limited edition scarf collection to celebrate the 10th anniversary of McQueen’s iconic skull scarf (Credit: Seth Browarnik / Startraksphoto)
Like any other scarf, you can rock the skull scarf however you want. However, let’s delve a little deeper into that for today.
A skull scarf, whether it’s a genuine Alexander McQueen creation or something from Collection XIX, will always exude a dark and edgy vibe that’s more punk and goth than sweet and feminine. So, how do you wear such a piece without looking clichéd?
Allow us to share with you these five simple tips we’ve put together. These aren’t rules, but more like guidelines. You may or may not agree with them, and you’re free to break them whenever you want.
However, we hope that by keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be able to enjoy a certain degree of panache whenever you sport your skull scarf.
1. Brighten the Mood: Opt for a Colored Skull Scarf
Color, whether it’s pink, green, or blue, can neutralize the darkness of the skull. That alone will keep you from looking like a hardcore punk. Even if you wear an all-black outfit, if your skull scarf is bright and colorful, you won’t look as intimidating.
Frankie Sandford of The Saturdays wears a green skull-print scarf with her maxi dress while leaving BBC Radio 1 Studios in London on August 19, 2013 (Credit: Michael Carpenter / WENN)
Of course, this doesn’t mean that you can’t wear the classic black or white skull scarf. Do so if you wish!
Frankie Sandford wears a blue Alexander McQueen Skull scarf while leaving a recording studio in London on April 8, 2010
2. Embrace Femininity: Pair It with a Flirty Dress or Skirt
This is probably the easiest trick in the book. Tone down the punk appeal by pairing your skull scarf with a dress. Nothing says feminine like a fabulous frock or a girly skirt.
Krysten Ritter wears an Alexander McQueen Skull scarf with a bright dress for her appearance on ‘Good Morning America’ on April 10, 2013
You can sport a strapless LBD or pair the scarf with a colored number, as long as it complements your look, you’re good to go.
Holly Madison accessorizes with a skull scarf around her neck as she attends the Rolling Stone Hot Party at Jet Nightclub in Las Vegas on October 1, 2010
Michelle Keegan wears the skull scarf with a slouchy sweater and lace skirt while heading to Hoopers Department Store in England on October 2, 2010
3. Add a Pop: Style with Bold Colored Separates
Now, don’t get us wrong. You can wear the classic black or white skull scarf.
Carrie Underwood wears her classic white McQueen skull scarf with a bright red jacket as she signs autographs for fans while in Dublin, Ireland, on March 14, 2013
To add a bit of happy flavor to the piece, pair it with separates that feature color. It can be a blue shirt, a poppy red jacket, or even a bright bag.
Mischa Barton poses for the photographers in a black Alexander McQueen scarf paired with a colored tee and an even more colorful blazer on April 21, 2009
Cher Lloyd wears her black skull scarf with a leather jacket and poppy red skinny jeans on November 30, 2012
4. Go Glam: Elevate the Look with Luxe Touches
Like wearing a dress or skirt, you can tone down the edginess of a skull scarf by glamming it up to the hilt.
Hilary Duff looks all glammed up in a pair of drop earrings, high heels, and a fabulous updo as she presents her new book, ‘Elixir’, at the Hotel Costes in Paris on February 3, 2011
Rock your scarf with a pair of striking heels, gorgeous hair, and statement jewelry for flair. Just take a cue from Hilary Duff and Christina Aguilera.
Christina Aguilera gets extra glam at the Nylon Magazine 8th Anniversary Celebration on March 22, 2007
5. Stay Sharp: Rock Your Scarf with Tailored Pieces
If you don’t feel like putting on a girly outfit, why not try a tailored look with your skull scarf instead? Nothing polishes up an outfit like a good ol’ classic blazer!
Ashlee Simpson pairs her scarf with a classic black blazer as she attends the Rock & Republic for Kohl’s Fall 2012 Fashion Show on February 10, 2012
Rochelle Humes of The Saturdays adds polish to her look by capping it off with a textured blazer on August 31, 2011
The skull motif extended beyond scarves to clothing, jewelry, handbags, and even shoes, such as Queen Latifah’s Alexander McQueen’s statement-making ‘Skull Rose’ boots, becoming a core element of McQueen’s brand identity.
Its timeless appeal has kept it in demand, with new iterations released regularly, including collaborations such as the 2013 Damien Hirst scarf collection, which celebrated the motif’s 10th anniversary.
Skull Chic: Celebrities Embracing Alexander McQueen’s Iconic Scarf
The Alexander McQueen skull scarf has become a staple among fashion-forward celebrities. Here are some standout moments where stars have styled this edgy accessory:
Hilary Duff’s Festival-Ready Look at Coachella
- Event: Coachella Music Festival
- Outfit: Hilary Duff paired distressed denim cutoffs with a printed Alexander McQueen skull scarf and a floppy hat, epitomizing boho-chic style.
- Footwear: She completed the ensemble with Western boots from Rag & Bone.
- Read more: Hilary Duff’s Coachella look featuring the McQueen skull scarf
Anna Paquin’s Edgy Ensemble in West Hollywood
- Event: Casual outing in West Hollywood
- Outfit: Anna Paquin showcased a bold purple scarf, leather jacket, and black suede ankle boots, exuding effortless street style.
- Accessories: She carried a rare Alexander McQueen Novak handbag, adding a touch of luxury to her look.
- Discover more: Anna Paquin’s standout street style with McQueen accessories
Heidi Klum’s Casual-Chic Street Style
- Event: Out and about in Los Angeles
- Outfit: Heidi Klum elevated her casual look with skinny jeans, a plaid tunic, and a skull-embroidered scarf.
- Footwear: She opted for suede high-heeled ankle boots, adding sophistication to her ensemble.
- See her look: Heidi Klum’s street style featuring a skull scarf
Hilary Duff’s Glamorous Parisian Appearance
- Event: Book launch at Hotel Costes in Paris
- Outfit: Hilary Duff donned J Brand skinny jeans, an A.L.C. asymmetric leather jacket, and a pink Alexander McQueen skull scarf.
- Accessories: She completed her look with Charlotte Olympia Dolly pumps and Kendra Scott Wren earrings.
- Explore her style: Hilary Duff’s chic ensemble with McQueen scarf in Paris
These moments highlight the versatility and enduring appeal of Alexander McQueen’s skull scarf among celebrities, seamlessly blending edgy aesthetics with personal style.
Where to Buy: Shop the Iconic Skull Scarf and Limited Edition Designs
If you don’t have a skull scarf in your closet yet, feel free to grab these pieces from Alexander McQueen at Farfetch or Mytheresa.
You can also try the scarves from their 10th Anniversary collection, which artist Damien Hirst designed.
Alexander McQueen Rhombic Graphic Skull Scarf, $295
Alexander McQueen Chiffon Skull Scarf, $295