Fashionable women — past and present — swear by scarves.

They know the secret: A solid, printed or patterned piece of silk, wool, chiffon, linen, velvet or cotton provides tons of panache to a plain outfit. Scarves hide a bump or bulge, frizzy hair or a too-low neckline. They add a touch of romance, a pop of color or a bit of texture. A hint of mystery. They update last year’s dress or blazer or a plain white T. They serve as a conversation piece or a touch of wardrobe whimsy. And, most practically, they cover up your bare shoulders or protect your hair-do from a windy convertible ride.

“The ways to wear a scarf are infinite,” says fashion expert and “Project Runway” judge Nina Garcia in her book “The Style Strategy.” “The only limit is your creativity.”

Some ideas: a necklace, a head wrap, a bracelet, a headband, a belt, a sarong, a shrug, an ascot, a halter top, a bandeau, a skirt — even a fashionable sling, Princess Grace-style, if you break your arm.

Depending on the style of scarf and the way you wear it, you can channel a goddess, pirate, hippie, cowgirl, European royalty, South Seas islander, gypsy or snow bunny.

And scarves are easy to pack (just fold one up in your suitcase or toss one in your purse) and you’re good to go! Now you’re ready for anything.

Create a scarf wardrobe by selecting a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, materials and patterns. Then tie one on!

— Jane Hudson