We’ve been championing the all round versatility of the scarf for some time, trying to persuade opinion formers that this timeless accessory is more than just a dust collector over the summer months and have even devoted hundreds of hours designing patterns and prints to compliment the season. But all our enthusiasm and zest for the scarf has up until this point been in vain.

But I am proud to announce that the summer scarf is now a must wear. Thanks to the fashion press and other opinion formers, our myth has now become truth!

The prospect of the scarf becoming a mainstay in ones summer wardrobe and not just another fashion fad depends on the design and the style in which the scarf is worn.

What Style of Scarf Is In?

To get the perfect straight-off-the-runway look, the scarf should be big, bold, colourful and lightweight. Scarves in bright florals, graphic prints and bold block colours are essential. The brighter the scarf, the better statement you will make.

Am I a ‘Yellow’ or a ‘Blue’?

In my experience not everyone is comfortable with or suited to bright colours and patterns. According to Abigail Abbas, the Creative Director of Black.co.uk & BrightbyBlack.co.uk, "the world is divided into ‘yellows’ and ‘blues’ it seems and the ‘yellows’ (blonde, blue-eyes and lighter skin) should focus mainly on wearing soft spring and summer colours such as blush, peach, terracotta, turquoise, pastels, coppers, tans; in short soft, delicate colours. Meanwhile the ‘blues’ (brown/black hair & brown eyes and darker skin) are rather enviably licensed to wear winter colours such as black and bright, bold colours including red, magenta, emerald, cobalt. The creation of the Bright brand as Black’s sister company was to create a more inclusive range to suite both the ‘yellows’ and ‘blues’ of this world.

When it comes to wearing summer scarves with summer dresses and blouses, the formula is straightforward. When wearing a floral or patterned outfit, accessorise with a complimentary block coloured scarf and the vice versa when wearing a plain dress, blouse or light summer shirt.

In terms of versatility, the summer brings the best out of the scarf. During the day it can be draped over the shoulders or loosely hung round the neck. For these styles superfine cashmere and/or silk are ideal. At night they can be wrapped round the whole body to keep you warm in the cool of the evening. For this use a large size is essential.

The summer also sees the metamorphosis of the scarf. It is used as a headband, a belt, a sarong on the beach and it can be tied to handbag straps to added extra style to your bag. However, despite your colour inclination, in order to pull of the scarf used in these fashions; the brighter the better in my opinion!

Whatever you wear as your favorite summer fashions this year, the scarf is the hot accessory that is a must-have. Scarves take you from daytime to night-time, from the high street to the beach. The scarf is definitely one sizzling look for summer 2010.