Playfulness with Scarves

Currently monochromatic outfits and normcore are popular. This is where the retro scarf adds a little bit of playfulness. One could say that it is the most remarkable small item of the moment, with various ways of expression depending on ingenuity.

Roots of the Scarf

The scarf has been around since the second half of the 16th century, when ladies at the time utilized decorative accessories to prevent sunburn. After that, gentleman aristocrats were using them as “neck ornaments”. At this point it was mainly an accessory for men, but around the end of the 18th century, cashmere and cotton materials had become popular and gradually entered ladies’ fashion. In the 1950s, the Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn scarf look attracted popularity. Since Hermes announced their first scarf in 1937, they have made a new work every year, and it is not an exaggeration to say that it is a staple item, next to the trench coat. There are as many as 850 or so different kinds.

Where to Get It

On the streets, the three types of scarves that are mainstream are those used for the head, neck, and as bag decoration. In any case, it seems that flashy patterns that become the main accent of an outfit are preferred, but then again there was also a fashionista finishing up her look elegantly with a beige bag and a similarly dot patterned scarf. The scarves are usually obtained as hand-me-downs or in used clothing stores, and in Harajuku, there are also some scarves that can be purchased in the three digit (yen) price range.

One of the appeals of this item is that it is easy to try and wear. As a good addition to your wardrobe, you can even choose your scarf based on your mood of the day.