Designer Scarves for a Variety of Occasions
Posted on: October 18, 2011
Designer scarves had evolved into a lot of variations. Some hold special places in different generations and are given different names. Even so, their significance stood through time and the continuously changing fashion trends.
One of the earliest origins of scarves is Rome. Its use is mostly practical, as it was worn by men on their belts, or on their necks, to wipe off sweat. The women also learned to use them practically, then as fashion accessories, and it eventually turned into the currently in demand designer scarves.
Another chunk of history associated with scarves can be traced in the early Chinese dynasties. Emperor Cheng was said to have made his warriors wear bright-colored scarves in order to identify their ranks. This identification system was also implemented in Croatia, around the 17th century. The higher ranking officials wore the scarves—known in Croatia as kravat— made of silk, while those in lower ranks wore scarves made of cotton.
Due to the growing international trades, the Croatian kravat reached Europe and had launched an unforgettable rage in men's fashion. From France, the scarf went to England, and was then called cravat. This is the ancestor of the necktie and is still significant in male formal wear. The cravat is now experiencing a revival that proves flexible to modern fashion trends.
Scarves are also part of religious traditions. Jewish Law requires married women to wear headscarves, known as tichel. This is in accordance to their code of modesty and humility, the Tzniut. Muslim women also wear scarves, wrapping around most of the head and shoulder part. These are called hijab. They come in different colors and designs, aside from the formal black or white worn in important events.
Scarves were also used in the academic field. In the United Kingdom, some universities and colleges make their students wear certain scarves, designed in accordance to the school colors. There is also the Scouting field, where scouts are mostly recognized with their neck scarves. These often come in different colors or designs to identify the different groups in assemblies and camps.
Military units, the US Military for example, can be seen wearing bib scarves. The colors are often associated with their respective units.
For sports fanatics, scarves play a significant role. The emergence of scarves as cheering or support material for football fans began in the early 1900s. People bring scarves that show their favorite club's traditional color or crest, and wave it at football games. This feature was then organized to showcase various synchronized movements for additional viewing entertainment. They are coupled with anthems or music to liven up the sports venue.
Scarves are favorite gifts for special occasions. Among the most popular are silk scarves, knitted scarves, and cashmere scarves. Most clothing gift sets are also accompanied by scarves of the same design motif. This kind of gift may be categorized as grand or of the VIP level. Even so, designer scarves are perfect presents even when bought and given as is.