The History of the Scarf
I'd like to contribute a story of my own to help tell the history of the scarf. I have framed pieces as home decor, owned a closet packed full of scarves that held wonderful memories, and even made a living selling them. The most heartfelt memory though, is helping women that have fallen victim to cancer tie head scarves. The women that came to see me filled my eyes with tears and I would try my best to make it easier. I would start by teaching them how to properly fold a head scarf to make them feel confident wearing. I always suggested a cotton blend because it stays in place longer unlike a slippery silk scarf. I also loved telling them that a little shot of hair spray gives the scarf an extra "stick" for reinforcement. These women saddened me but it gave me a peace knowing that I helped them feel beautiful despite the battle they were fighting.
Scarves are full of memories and never go out of style. They are timeless and can make any blank palate full of life and fashion. My friends, I am excited to share the story of the scarf with you.
Scarves were first used for hygiene purposes early on in Ancient Rome. They were not intended for dress or to accessorize but rather served a purpose. Can you imagine? Function with no fashion?
Square cotton cloths otherwise known as "scarves" were first used by men to wipe sweat from the neck and face in hot weather. We can thank our gentlemen for starting this trend!
They would tie a cotton square around their their necks or belts to keep it handy. Eventually women started wearing cotton, silk, or various blends as scarves.
In later times scarves were worn by soldiers of all ranks in Croatia around the 17th century. Soldiers' scarves displayed a difference in rank by silk scarves while other ranks were issued with cotton scarves.
By the middle of the 20th century scarves became one of the most essential clothing accessories for both men and women. Celebrities have started trends with film props such as scarves, which quickly become mainstream fashion items. Designers such as Hermes, Chanel, and Feraggamo all tell stories in their own scarf designs. However, nothing tells the story like we do wearing them!
