About Silk
Scarves
Silk scarves are the most popular fashion accessory sold today. Fashionable women either tie them around their heads or wear them as neckerchiefs to add a pop of color to their wardrobes. Crafted from the strongest natural fiber, silk scarves are often passed down from generation to generation as precious heirlooms and chic designer relics from the past.
History
According to Wikipedia, the scarf's history begins in ancient Rome as a cloth accessory, but the first silk scarf was created in ancient China. Referred to as a "sudarim," which is Latin for "sweat cloth" both male and females wore these small scarves when working in hot weather. Throughout the 17th and 19th century, French, Croatian, Chinese and Sweden people used scarves to designate nobility and social class. Silk scarves were worn in China, France and Croatia as shawls, neckerchiefs and head wraps.
Significance
From silk chiffon to silk shantung, these luxurious fabrics exude sophistication and luxury for the wearer.Silk is a natural protein fiber created by the mulberry silkworm and by caterpillars. The silk of moth caterpillars are primarily used for textile garments and scarves. Due to the intricate cross weaving of the fibers, silk scarves reflect light and exude a high shine. Silk scarves are worn as sarongs, headwear, Indian saris, pocket squares, neckerchiefs, head coverings and belts.
Types
Silk scarves vary in length, weight and texture. Silk bandanas and neckerchiefs range from six to 16 inches in diameter. Silk shawls worn around the waist and shoulders are often 40 inches or more in length. The edges of expensive silk scarves, like the legendary French brand Hermès, are usually rolled and sewn by hand. The first Hermes silk scarf was produced in 1928. Priced at $375 Hermès scarves are twice as durable and strong as other silk scarves in the marketplace. Each object d'art contains the silk fibers woven by 250 mulberry moth cocoons.
Warning
Silk scarves, unless noted by the manufacturer, require dry cleaning. Silk fibers are strong and durable, but frequent washing and use of harsh soap and detergents can harm fibers and cause discoloration. Silk loses 20 percent of its durability and shine when wet. When ironing a silk scarf, keep the device's temperature and setting low. Refrain from using spray starch and other straightening chemicals when ironing your silk scarves.
Expert Insight
Silk garments are light, airy and porous. Men and women prefer silk fabrics to cotton and wool because of the fiber's ability to breathe and keep the wearer's skin cool and fresh. In comparison to cotton and rayon, silk scarves are easier to dye and retain vibrant and iridescent colors easily. Silk scarves are susceptible to static cling and shrinkage and should never be tumbled in a hot dryer.
