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[Ilafatyu]

I don't know how to describe it perfectly, but I'll do my best. A lot of character designs have fluffy fabric, like scarves that don't lay flat or pants that puff out at the bottom.

For example, though I'm looking for a general answer, I'm trying to figure out how to make Sheik's scarf/muffler. It would be simple enough to just take white fabric and throw it around, but it wouldn't get those lovely folds and flops I'm looking for.

[Evil Bishounen]

That's called a cowling effect. It takes advantage of a fabric's drape when it's cut on the bias instead of a straight grain.

[Penlowe]

agreed. sheer quantity adds to the effect as well. you won't get that look using a 1 yard chunk of fabric.

[Nostrum]

I have cheated, and used pillow stuffing to recreate Roland's cowl, because I wanted something that would look the same every time it's worn. I made a base layer with scrap fabric (it was a lovely garish fleece) that was the shape of the finished cowl with the appropriate sized hole for his head.
After that I started putting on the top layer of fabric, starting from the neck hole and working my way out. It's ditch-stitched as I go, and stuffed as I see fit.

It's the cheaters way to do it, but (I think) it looks great.
I don't seem to have a photo of it being worn, but here's a shot of it being held up during the dying process.

[Nostrum]

This is a crappy shot of the bottom layer. Scary fleece! All the darts were stitched down, but left them uncut just for the sake of adding body.

[Ilafatyu]

Thank you so much for the responses, everyone. I'm going to go Nostrum's cheatermethod.