What is a scarf?

A scarf is in essence a piece of fabric that is worn around the neck or head, generally for warmth, or protection from the sun. Historically they were also worn around the waist for warmth. Apart from the practical uses of a scarf they were also worn for fashion and religious reasons.

One of the earliest records of scarves is in ancient Rome where its primary use among men was not for warmth but for wiping away the sweat and keeping "clean" in hot weather. Although worn for practical purposes by men women also started wearing this accessory and since Roman times it became a feminine item of fashion.

Historians believe that in China during the Cheng dynasty, (51 - 7BC), scarves were used in the field of combat to identify officers of the rank of Chinese Warrior.

It has been recorded that during the 17th Century they were worn by all ranks of the Croation forces. However only officers used silk scarves whilst the privates were issued with cotton scarves. These scarves were sometimes refered to as "Crevats", a word derived from the Frecnch for Croat. It is the crevat (Croation scarf),  which gave birth to the modern neck tie.

By the mid 20th Century scarves had become one of the most essential fashion accessories and to this day they have a place in the wardrobe of most women. Apart from the obvious benefits of keeping one warm it is the ability of a scarf to completely change the nature of an outfit which has kept them in such demand.

The scarf is of course a small version of the "shawl" but the history of this is a matter for another article.