Scarves! Next to rings, bracelets, necklaces, handbags, shoes, and belts, scarves are my favorite accessory. But it currently has bubbled to the top of my pool of adornments as my current favorite.

Let’s explore because a life without scarves is a life not worth living.

An organic silk chiffon short scarf can be the perfect dose of color to an otherwise simple neutral top. The scarf can be tied in a short, taut bow, dangle loosely to the side (as pictured) or just tie two points behind your neck for a drapey/cowel-like effect.

A long, skinny scarf like this, made from silk chiffon can be wrapped several times around your neck like a faux-turtleneck. Alternatively, you can wrap it one single time, loosely with both ends in front. I even love to tie these in my hair and let the ends hang down my back.

This boho-chic number can be used for warmth on a crisp spring morning and then transforms into an accessory against a crisp white shirt or tank top. Heck, I'd even pair this with a hot pink top (you risk looking like an Easter egg, but who cares?). I like to pair scarves like this with a comfy v-neck t-shirt and my favorite jeans on a Saturday afternoon of movies or errands.

This viscose scarf can provide warmth with your best pea coat or driving coat in fall weather. With the pom poms and ruffle-y layers of fabric, it's feminine and functional, chic and cozy.

How beautiful--a-spring-made-from-wool-for-the-winter! This wrap (super wide as it is long) drapes casually over your shoulders for an effortless pop of color to layer over your coat and again over your shirt when the coat comes off. The colors are delicious and bright, successfully reminding you that spring is just around the corner.

Linen is a natural fiber, lightweight, comfortable and high quality. This casual scarf should be loosely draped around your neck, or for some drama, over your head 50's-style for a ride with the top down in a convertible (if you have one).

Possibly one of the most famous designers of scarves, pictured above is the signature colorful, geometric silk of Pucci. This is a scarf masterfully turned into a top. If you're not this daring, you can certainly tie it around your neck and pin it with a beautiful golden broach. This is a pricey accessory, but Pucci says instant class and will never, ever go out of style.

Make no mistake–scarves are not just for warmth. I’d argue that’s the last thing they’re for! They’re an accessory, a necessary one. They come in all price points, lengths, widths, and functions. There are umpteen books dedicated to just tying a scarf.

Go.

Buy.

Play.

More multiples

And I’m not referring to children.

Another item to buy in multiples…The Cardigan.

In it’s simplest form, it’s a sweater that opens in the front. How it opens, the way it in which it closes, the fit, fabric and silhouette are all variables that depend on the designer and the way you choose to “cover-up”. Cardigans are worn over everything–camisoles, t-shirts, oxfords, dresses, with skirts, with pants, with jeans…the works. Here are some of my faves right now.

This cardigan drapes elegantly and remains open at the front, but has the cinched waist to add structure and an hourglass shape.

A classic style that's never dated, the crew neck cardigan has a modest neckline and adds a polished effect to anything you throw it over. I'd wear this with a bright floral or loud geometric pattern underneath. The plain cardigan will balance the overpowering pattern.

The crochet of this tie-waist number gives some interest to an otherwise plain color (oatmeal is tasty but can be blah-boring in clothing) that could wash you out. Put this on over a simple black dress for a jazzy effect or a hyper-bright camisole and watch the color peek through the weave of the crochet. This will add dimension to a plain and simple outfit.

This one is sporty with it's thick rugby-like stripes but the twist is in the color combination. It may seem loud but let this cardigan be the focus of your outfit and keep everything else simple. Pair this with jeans or plain, flat front trousers and a simple t-shirt or classic white oxford (cuffs, collar, and tail peeking out). If you're worried the horizontal strips will widen you, button only the middle one or two buttons to create an hourglass shape.

This version is slouchy with an intentionally drape-y fit. But rest assured that slouchy does not equal sloppy if you layer it with a fitted top. Try a bold emerald green or bright orange with this soft navy blue pictured above. And, on the bottom, try your favorite light colored denim or even a classic pencil skirt and heels.

Cardigans aren’t just for sweater sets (snooze).  They are a versatile, comfortable, and essential garment that any woman needs more than one of in her closet. It’s a fast fix to punch up a clean look.  Find a style (or styles) you like, and buy in basic black, a pattern or stripe of your choice, and your favorite solid color for endless permutations with your various tops and bottoms.