Later he was caught robbing an Amtrak train.

Oh, Eric. I was afraid this look was going to come up. As celebrities from John Mayer to David Beckham start wearing these to all sorts of events, men the world over (ok, metro men the world over) have wondered if they can pull off this look. I admit that I'm torn. I tried the look myself last week and while I was able to pull it off where I live, it might not be so easy in the middle of Des Moines. Or heck, even Seattle.

Still a bit awkward, that Beckham.

Here's why: Summer scarves actually serve a purpose, and that is to keep you cool. Sure that sounds counter-intuitive, but the reality is that something against your neck is able to (1) keep the sun off of it and (2) wick away moisture, much like a running top. So it does have utility. But if we were a society based solely on utiltiy, we'd all be driving Volkwagen Beetles. Where's the style in that?

So you can use the "It's hot out"-card if you must, but you should also be able to back up your style prowess should you don one of these scarves. When a friend or co-worker asks why you're wearing a rag around your neck, can you confidently utter the words "It's actually a summer scarf, and it's quite stylish, sir"?

The best look. But still bizarre.

So here's the thing. It can be pulled off with the right combination and attitude (read: I'm not advocating this look, but if you dare go there, please at least do it well).

First off, don't wear it with a dress shirt, or you risk looking like Ali Baba. Instead wear a T-shirt. It should contrast the color of the scarf itself. Check out the bloke to the left, a white T and a pink scarf. It works. Or go monochromatic like the chap above, but please wear sleeves. 

Secondly, it's all about the knot, or lack thereof. Don't try to tie one of these like a regular winter scarf. That just won't do. Instead, loosely wrap it around your neck, with the tassles or corners falling toward the front, assymetrically, being careful not to make a mess of it, but let it have a carefully dishelved heap of material loosely around your neck.

But because I think the best advice is good, sound advice — I'll have to say avoid them, if you can.

I welcome photos of you in your summer scarf to prove me wrong.