It is a simple piece of fabric and can brighten up even the dowdiest of outfits. Shaili Dhagat introduces the scarf!

Scarves that covered the pretty heads of Marilyn Monroe, Jaqueline Kennedy and many other personalities in the 1970s are back! They are definitely doing the rounds in fashion circles in a new avatar, and defining style. College students and the fashion-savvy are selecting scarves and stoles (the longer version of scarves), to add that extra bit of charm and punch to their attires. Even though a scarf is considered an age-old attire, brand new ways of draping it have given it a completely different meaning.

The numerous roadside shops in Janpath, Karol Bagh, Lajpat Nagar, Sarojini nagar, Delhi Hatt, South Extension and the many boutiques all over Delhi have a good collection of scarves in different colours, prints and designs to choose from. Scarves are available in different fabrics like georgette, chiffon, crepe, tussar and silk. Woollen and knitted scarves are also  available on the shelves. Bangalore is no less. The winter saw shops display their brightest colours and prints of scarves all through December and January!
Scarves could entice you with an amazing piece of embroidery, stone work, crystal work, thread and zari work and are available in myriads of colours and prints. In fact, the cool  climate of Delhi these days is just perfect for draping a scarf!

A scarf can bring about a magical transformation in your appearance. It could cost you anywhere between Rs 100 and Rs 1,500, depending on the fabric and work on it. It is unisex in nature — something that both genders can sport with oomph. The best part of a scarf is that it is a ready-to-use garment and does not require any tailoring at all.  

Says Milu Madan, a fashion designer who has her own boutique in South Delhi, Harmony Designer and Clothing, “It is an amazing accessory, so readily available in markets all over the country. It suits everybody and can brighten up even a dull or dowdy garment.
Nowadays, youngsters as well as office-going folk can add that extra bit of glamour by draping a pretty scarf. While the men can team it up with kurta-pyjama-sherwani, scarves also look very good with Western wear for both men and women. Some women get exquisite scarves and stoles made out of old Banarasi saris, known as Banarasi stoles.”

As for colours, wine and purple are very popular. Black and white are universal favourites and can go with many colours of dresses; shades of pink are also high on demand.

A student of MBA, Surabhi Asthana says, “I have a collection of six scarves and stoles of
different prints and colours. So depending on my attire for the day and of course my mood, I choose my scarf. I drape it around my head when I go driving for my classes and once the temperature rises, I drape it gently over my shoulders to give myself a casual  and chic look. A neutral shade of scarf can be accessorised to match a variety of outfits and combinations. I think scarves look best with jeans and a T-shirt. For winters, a woollen scarf provides protection as well as adds that bit of glamour, so much needed when you are all bundled up!”

Another designer, Shruti Dudani says, “A scarf is one of the most popular accessories these days. All age groups can carry it off with grace and style. It needn’t just be around the shoulders. Youngsters can be seen draping it around their wrists, ankles or head and letting it hang on the shoulders.

Geometric patterns, diagonal stripes and polka dots go very well with western wear or casual wear. Expensive silk scarves, both printed and plain, can suit a formal attire. Teenagers, are forever on the look out for trendy scarves and they have a wide range to choose from.”

Well, it is amazing how this simple strip of fabric can bring about a dramatic change in your attire. It can make even the dowdiest of dresses look bright and smart. So if you have a scarf in your wardrobe, it could be an asset for all seasons. Make heads turn now!