Scarves & Scarfs - Ancient Period to Modern Age

The popularity of scarves endures. History traces the use of scarves to the ancient Harappan culture in the Indus valley around 3300 BC! The Egyptians are known to have worn scarves and shawls made of fine linen. The Chinese are known to have used scarves. Mens scarves and womens scarves really gained popularity during the Roman period. Scarves, in some cultures were a must as a head covering for women in addition to serving as a fashion accessory. Square, rectangular or triangular in shape, the popularity of scarves with women as well as with men continues to this day. Down the centuries head scarves evolved in styles and the material of construction included cotton, linen, silk and wool. Today scarves made of chiffon, rayon and other synthetic fibers have joined the traditional fabrics. Womens scarves made of silk and dyed or printed with brilliant colors, shimmering in the sunlight, can add a sparkle and glamour to a woman’s personality. Scarves can be plain, brightly printed, with or without elaborate borders and tassels. A head scarf adds hints of gaiety, insouciance, piquancy and spice to a woman’s looks. Shawls for dresses, in their unique way, add grace and elegance to any woman’s looks.
Mens scarf, popularized by the French who termed it as “cravat” was in general use in the nineteenth century. With or without fringes, used as headgear and as shawls, scarves defined style and personality of a man about town. The charisma of scarves continues to this day. Of all the materials, silk is still the preferred fabric with its unique lightness, luster, brilliant colors, sensuous feel and timeless charm. Mens scarf and scarves for women made of silk add a dash of color and enhance the personality of the wearer, giving flamboyance and style like no other apparel can. The sheer variety in the shapes and sizes of head scarf available today in the form of beaded and embroidered scarf, geometric design scarf, paisley scarf, equestrian scarf, solid and plain, striped, checked, dotted, textured or woven, with fringes and tassels…the combinations are endless and enchanting. Add sunglasses and a pouting look for killer effects.
Commonly available scarves are machine made but if you like you can go in for a handmade scarf for a distinctive look. One can choose a handmade scarf with prints or embroidery, with fringes added and possibly with a jewel or two adorning it to add gleaming sparkles. Pashmina is fine and light wool and shawls as well as handmade scarf made of Pashmina can serve as winter scarves. Pashmina is expensive and luxurious in feel, touch and appearance and can be just the material to choose for special events and winter occasions. Shawls for dresses made from such exotic materials can have a lasting charm and in some communities, these are handed down from one generation to the next and treasured as heirlooms, gaining in value with the passage of time. Cashmere Pashmina handmade shawl and handmade scarf are items you would yearn to possess and cherish.