Why Is Everyone Obsessed With the Totême Scarf Jacket?
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Putting the internet’s favorite designer jacket to the test.
Given the widespread popularity of the Scandinavian aesthetic in fashion and interior, it’s no wonder Totême rose to the fashion fore. Founded by husband and wife duo Karl Lindman and Elin Kling in 2014, the Swedish label is praised for its understated take on closet essentials. As Kling told Browns in an interview, “It’s about curating a streamlined wardrobe that backs our woman’s purpose – pieces to rely on that go well together, and transcend trends.” Totême’s price point has landed it on the shelves of most luxury retailers, including Net-a-Porter, Saks Fifth Avenue, Browns, Nordstrom, Selfridges, etc.
When an item goes viral, I always wonder if it’s worth the hype or a passing fad.
The brand arguably hit the jackpot when it launched the scarf jacket for fall 2022. I had been seeing the black and neutral versions all over Instagram and TikTok, but I never felt inclined to purchase until the green color came out. It seriously gave me a jolt of energy; not only is it striking, but it shows special consideration for construction and practicality. Plus, the fact that I could picture several different outfits with it told me I would get my money’s worth. Still, it took a while to talk myself into paying the premium price. When an item goes viral, I always wonder if it’s worth the hype or just a fad. Because this one combined elegance and functionality into a timeless look, I gave it the benefit of the doubt.
When it comes to cold-weather dressing, I put a lot of thought into the finishing layers. After all, your outerwear is what people first notice when you walk into a room. While I love experimenting with colors, prints and materials in sweaters, bottoms and accessories, I generally take the minimalist route with my coats and jackets. My focus is on building a small rotation of functional and stylish pieces that transcend trends and stand the test of time. This isn’t to say that I won’t occasionally bring out an eccentric jacket for a fashion event, but on a day-to-day basis, I love to stick to my timeless classics: my black Aritzia puffer jacket, black DISSH wool felt coat, and most recently, the green Totême Scarf Jacket.
As the name suggests, the scarf jacket combines two outerwear essentials, which I find very appealing. The scarf drapes elegantly around the neck, while the jacket features off-white chain stitches that give it a distinctly chic look. Plus, there is no visible logo, making it the kind of “if you know you know” unassuming luxury that I gravitate towards.
Before swiping my credit card, I asked a couple friends for their honest reviews. The biggest feedback was that it runs large, so I told myself I’d buy the smallest size and see if I could make it work. I never returned it.
If you’ve been curious about the scarf-jacket look or you’re looking to invest in a timeless and practical piece of outerwear, read all about the Totême Scarf Jacket ahead.
What to Know about the Totême Scarf Jacket
True to what my friends told me, the jacket fits loosely even in its smallest size. But it packs a lot of space under the panels, so you can layer comfortably. I have worn it over a long-sleeve shirt and a thick sweater without looking bumpy. Because I’m petite and there’s quite a bit of fabric, I had to figure out how to style it so that the jacket doesn’t wear me. I love to wear it with pants and low to mid heels to elongate my silhouette and look more in charge. The styling is key to making it work for you.
The wool-blend fabric doesn’t itch and it’s quite thick, but contrary to the way it’s advertised, the jacket is actually best for spring and fall weather as it doesn’t provide a lot of buffer against strong winds. If you’d still like to wear it during the winter though, you might be able to layer it under a long wool coat.
There may not be any visible branding, but this jacket definitely makes a loud statement. Not a pretentious, new money type, but one that signals a taste for the finer things (kind of like The Row or Bottega Veneta). Although I could wear it every day with jeans and low heels, I tend to save it for work events, business meetings or special occasions. Like, you won’t find me riding the subway in it because I’d feel flashy. Maybe I’m self-conscious because I spent so much on it, but I’m more interested in the quality and utility of the piece. Now that I’ve had the jacket for a few months, I can confirm it looks and feels like a well-made jacket.
Totême Scarf Jacket
$1,010
Totême Scarf Jacket
$1,130
Totême Scarf Jacket
$1,010
What My Friend Thought of the Totême Scarf Jacket
“There are coats you wear when it's too cold or starting to get warmer, but a coat that's for all that in-between weather is one that's hard to find. While this one is obviously trendy, it's just as, if not more, functional to me. There are plenty of NYC days and nights where it keeps me cozy while looking chic, but I'm deeming this the ultimate travel jacket. I've taken it on two trips to Paris and one to London, I wore it every single day and on the plane. The layer-ability and attached scarf make it perfect for many occasions and saves me packing space. Sure, over time it's balled up a bit and worn down, but what coat you wear constantly doesn't?!” - Krista Jones, Senior Editor, Esquire
Is It Worth the Investment?
The Totême scarf-jacket is a stunning piece that doesn’t cater to trends, and delivers quality and comfort. I have seen several dupes available for a fraction of the cost since the brand issued it last year, but I always feel good about buying into an original idea. I’m satisfied with the investment as the material feels sturdy and functional, and I’m planning to get a lot of wear out of the jacket. It’s also the kind of sophisticated piece that I hope to give to my children someday.