As we head towards winter it isoften hard to decide what to wear. It isn't quite cold enough for a winter coatyet but sometimes there is a bit of a chill in the air or some damp autumn fogthat sends a chill down your spine. So before you start shivering just at thethought of it now is the time to start looking at and experimenting withscarves and shawls.

A scarf can transform an outfit. Notonly will it stop you from feeling the cold but it can liven up a dull outfitor change that jumper that you have worn off and on for the last three years. Infact the addition of a scarf can change an outfit that you are totally sick ofinto a new vibrant set of clothes.

And remember a scarf doesn't haveto stay round your neck. For an alternative look, why not use it as a belt orfor something completely different, and maybe just for the brave, why not tieit around your head. For a really up to the minute look, tie it into a bow,bows are the thing for the 2008/2009 season and will really jazz up your look.

But there are so many differentscarves to choose from it is hard to know what to go for. So here is a few ofthe current styles on offer.

The most obvious kind of scarf isthe type that everyone thinks of when you mention the word scarf ? a knittedlength of material that you wrap around your neck on a cold day. Theses aregreat but your use of scarves doesn't have to stop there. There is also in thesame bracket as this scarf, the pashmina or wrap which is a longer type ofwoollen (often silk or even cashmere) that can be used over a party dress tokeep you warm whilst you walk from taxi to table or even can be used on acooler day in stead of a coat.

Then there are the whole range ofsilk scarves. These can be ruched, ruffled, embroidered or just plain silk. Theselook great tied round your neck if you are wearing an elegant suit in a 1940?sstyle or in a bow to bring your outfit bang up to date. They can also be wornin the same way as a regular scarf but will give your outfit a sophisticatededge.

For a slightly more traditionallook or to give yourself the edge in business dressing a jacquard weave can adda sophisticated individuality to an outfit. Worn with plain grey or blackclothing the subtle tones in these scarves will give your outfit a classy lookwithout stepping too far way from the norm.