The history of the scarf

The Roman Empire is one of many places where the scarf has its origins. Here it was used more to stay clean than to stay warm. It was called "sudarium", which translated from Latin means sweat cloth, and was used to wipe the sweat from the neck and head when it was hot. Originally only men wore the scarf, tied around the neck or fastened to the belt. Later women began to wear scarves made of fabric, and not wool, cashmere or silk as we know it today.

Later the scarf was worn by soldiers of every rank in Croatia in the 17th century. Officers wore silk scarves while ordinary soldiers wore scarves made of cotton. The men's scarves were sometimes referred to as "cravats", from the French "cravate" meaning Croat, which is why the Croatian soldiers' scarves are believed to be the forerunner of the necktie.

The scarf became a true fashion accessory in the early 18th century for both men and women. In the middle of the 20th century the scarf became one of the most essential and versatile accessories. Celebrity actors have not only made scarves and shoes more accessible, but have given the public the chance to wear the accessories of the stars.

Today, scarves from brands such as Hermès, Gucci and Lala Berlin are a must in any wardrobe.

See our selection of scarves.