No self-respecting French woman ‑- or American celebrity ‑- would go without an Hermes scarf. Grace Kelly used hers as a sling for her broken arm. And the fabulous Madonna wore one as a halter in the film Swept Away. Did you ever think a silky square could be so versatile? Whether you're using it to hide a hickey, support a broken arm or cover up a bad dye job, a scarf is one of the most stylishly efficient tools we have. The following are some creative (and chic) ways to incorporate this status symbol into your everyday life.

"Top" Off Your Outfit

It's easy to transform your scarf into a sexy halter. Fold the scarf in half to make a triangle, then hold the triangle shape up so that the top of the triangle is at your neck. Separate the top edges of the scarf and wrap them around your neck, then knot them and adjust as necessary to complement your neckline. Next, take both ends of the scarf at your waist and pull them behind your back, tying them behind you. If you really feel adventurous, you can form the top end into a short chain or choker and then fasten it around your neck. If you're going for a va-va-voom effect, then wear your scarf as a bikini top. Fold it in half lengthwise two or three times, wrap it around your back and, bringing the ends forward, tie them in a knot between your breasts.