Scarves | FASHION

The Perfect Touch for any outfit

A beautiful scarf worn with some thought can add color and style to even the most boring and staid outfits. Scarves have since many years been an integral part of the fashion scene all over the world and can never go out of style owing to the fact that a scarf is an incredibly functional accessory. A classic go to item to add a refined elegant detail to your everyday look, these days a lot of prominent fashion houses create scarves in various sizes, colors and shapes which cater to various preferences. A scarf can be at best described as a stylish and sophisticated wardrobe piece that every woman should have to dress up or dress down any look. Used in multiple ways such as to accessorize an accessory when it is tied onto a handbag to instantly update your look or a fashionable and everlasting head cover or even an original top to wear for warm summer parties, given a little thought and some imagination a scarf can take your style several notches higher.

ORIGIN AND EVOLUTION

Legend has it that the scarf originated in Rome, and its purpose was cleanliness and not to make a fashion statement. Scarves were used as a solution for perspiration in warm weather in the olden days and were worn either around the neck or on the belt. Used to depict iconic, quirky images from a city to a region or even postcard themes; there is no end to a designer’s imagination when it comes to creating a new scarf design. Popular fashion houses manufactured scarves as fashion accessories since the 1800s. Usually made using silk and with flamboyant patterns, there was a time when scarves were made in affordable fabrics such as rayon making it easier for women of all social strata to buy these beautiful creations. In fact, the fabric used, the patterns created and the style of scarves worn by fashionistas were an indication of the current economic and social conditions. During the World War II, colors of scarves were muted and reflected the mood of the society; the purpose was also to conserve resources during that period so we don’t see a lot of luxurious material used to create scarves. Whereas in the sixties scarves were brightly colored and floral patterned. Scarves have evolved with time and these days scarves are available in a wide price range making it easy for women to sport a scarf

and add that much needed oomph factor to an outfit. Scarves are a like a canvas where an artist creates a unique design which is then converted into a wearable piece of art, at times scarves are used to recreate the works of masters. Whatever it is, like in any other industry, originality and creativity determines the popularity of a brand when it comes to scarves.

Knitted scarves such as lace knit scarves, ruffle knit scarves, chunky knit scarves are great to provide warmth in the winters while skinny scarves can add a feminine touch to your outfit during the summers. Skinny scarves are perfect during the summers and can be sported with casual tee shirts, skirts and short dresses. Even though skinny scarves are more ornamental than useful, these light and trendy scarves can be used to create a fashion statement in the summers. Loose wrap knitted scarves and mini neckerchiefs make great options for both casual outings and romantic dates. Fur scarves add a luxurious look to any outfit and can be used to up the ante when you want to stand out in a crowd. Created in various colors these days, fur scarves can be used as a wraparound for the neck or even tucked inside a belt to create a new look.

BRANDS THAT CREATE SOME OF THE BEST SCARVES

Brands such as Hermès have created some of the most exclusive scarves and thus have carved a niche for themselves in the fashion industry. It is believed that Hermès sells a scarf every twenty five seconds such is the popularity of the brand. The company was established in 1837 and is known for its individualistic style and unique creations. Most of the scarves created by Hermès have paintings by renowned artists and find favour with many a celebrity all over the world. This season Hermès has released interesting designs such as the Rosace de Janos Ber created by Designer Janos Ber. Born in Budapest in 1937, Janos Ber moved to Paris at the age of 20. His meeting with Simon Hantaï and his discovery of the American postwar school of painting marked a turning point in his art, as did the paintings and writing of Matisse. Here he tells the story of a certain Rosace, which has become a silk scarf: “The brush leaves a trail on a square of paper, traces of color that follow in quick succession, converge, diverge, never forgetting the void that separates them, which are only there to bring the white to life with a breath, a heartbeat. It’s simple, too simple perhaps. The scissors slice, cut into two, gliding from one corner to the other reminding us of something, a flower, a rose… almost there, it’s a rose window!” The Jaguar Quetzal created by Designer Alice Shirley also has an interesting story behind it’s creation. The “jaguar warriors” of the pre-Columbian Aztec civilization inspired Alice Shirley to dream up this big cat and its superb headdress, which is loosely inspired by the famous Penacho conserved in the Museum of Ethnology, Vienna. Made of feathers and semi-precious stones, this enormous headdress owes its beauty to the brilliance of more than 400 quetzal feathers. The quetzal is a tropical bird that lives in Central and South America, whose Aztec name means “long green feathers”. The designer, who is passionate about the animal world, gives us a tender portrait: a sleeping jaguar “dreaming of freedom”.

Established in London in 2005, JANE CARR creates luxury printed and cashmere scarves in directional color palettes. Founder and Creative Director Jane Carr graduated from the prestigious Central Saint Martin’s Fashion MA. Since it’s debut, emphasis has been placed on unique, vibrant design and the finest craftsmanship, with printed scarves made by hand in Como, Italy. The JANE CARR world is inspired by global travel, contemporary art and popular culture, imbued with a subtle humour and playfulness. Alongside seasonal print collections, JANE CARR presents an edit of indulgent cashmere wraps. Timeless wardrobe staples and luxury travel must-haves, each cashmere piece is expertly hand-loomed by artisans from Kathmandu in Nepal. The Spring Summer 18 collection features the Print Collection consisting of The Gitane, Fauve and Lydia prints with their blocks of pure color, hand-drawn florals, bold strokes and abstract paisley motifs. The Love Square is an ode to the artist and his travels, whilst The Camouflage Neckerchief and Strawberry Foulard are vividly colorblocked eye candy. About the Strawberry Foulard, Jane Carr-Founder and Creative Director, says “This graphic take on the classic foulard is an ode to the Pop Art movement and Andy Warhol. Capturing the zeitgeist, it is both fun-spirited and effortless to style. As is true for all our silk scarves, it is impeccably hand-finished in historic mills in Como, Italy. The new Summer 18 collection is inspired by the artists and art movements that continue to shape my attitude towards color and design.”

THE PERFECT STATEMENT ACCESSORY

The fact that a scarf is so versatile and can be used in various ways to dress up adds to its popularity with men and women alike. A scarf can be used to tie up your hair, accessorize your hand bag, worn around the waist as a creative belt, on your wrist as a wristband, knotted into a French bow around the neck, as a causal drape around the neck, as a headscarf instead of a headband or even used to tie around an ankle instead of an anklet. Whether it is a colorful or a white scarf, both can be used to accentuate your style given a little thought. A white scarf is perfect for a business meeting whereas the colorful ones are perfect for a fun outing. Beach gown scarves are used to protect the neck and shoulders from the sun. At times, beach scarves are also wrapped around the head to protect from the sun and can make for a unique look. Smaller scarves or neckerchiefs are ideal accessories for the hair whether to tie up the hair in a pony tail or to use as a headband. Polka dotted scarves, scarves with stripes, floral scarves and those with animal or geometric prints are perfect for a casual outing. Whereas scarves depicting an artist’s painting or an iconic theme or ones that prophesize a philosophy are ideal for more formal occasions. Whether it is summer, winter or monsoons, these days there are scarves created by well known brands for all seasons. Select a gorgeous scarf to take your ensemble to the next level in your future outings!