When it comes to women’s clothing and accessories, it is probably fair to say that certain types and styles simply don’t cross the age or generational boundaries quite so well as others. In some cases they can make a woman look like ‘mutton dressed as lamb’, while in others they can turn a twenty-something into a fine impression of an elderly aunt. Two of the few items which are truly ageless and timeless, however, are silk scarves and shawls, and here’s why.
The Style
Unlike most items, women’s scarves and shawls can be worn in a huge variety of ways, making them hugely versatile accessories for women of all ages. Worn in the more traditional ways around the head, neck and shoulders, they have a classic appeal which suits young and old alike, but even as belts, bands to create an empire line, when used to decorate bags or worn in the hair, they have a universal appeal. For hundreds of years scarves have been used as sarongs by different generations of women and one look around any beach in the world will tell you that this is no different today. While options such as wearing a silk scarf as a funky and fashionable halter-neck top might perhaps be best left for the youngsters, most other methods of wearing cut right across the age groups. Depending upon occasion or mood, silk scarves and shawls can be used to give a more grown-up or classic look or to inject a bit of fun and quirkiness into an outfit.
The Designs
Unlike many of today’s mass-produced goods which are often aimed towards specific age groups, hand painted scarves and hand dyed shawls and wraps feature a glorious selection of unique designs which appeal to a broad range of ages and personal tastes. From the subtle to the daringly bold, there is truly something for everyone.
The Colors
The colors that we choose normally have more to do with personal taste and what suits our skin tones and hair coloring than age. Some women naturally incline towards pastels because these are what suit them best, whereas others prefer stronger, bolder colors. While the costs involved in standard manufacturing processes mean that only a limited range of colors tend to be incorporated into products which are produced in bulk, items which are individually colored by hand offer a whole spectrum of shades. Irrespective of age or personal tastes, finding a women’s scarf or shawl to match or coordinate with an outfit couldn’t be easier.
The Fabric
The silk which is used to make some of the finest examples of women’s scarves and shawls has an absolutely timeless appeal. Women of all ages have been wearing it for centuries for its luxury and elegance, and because it is such a sensual fabric. From 18 to 80, there are few who can resist the feel of this light, silky material as it glides across the skin.
The Cost
Very often, luxury hand-made goods tend to come with a hefty price tag which can put them out of the reach of younger buyers. Hand painted silk scarves and shawls, however, in many cases retail for considerably less than designer alternatives which are neither unique in design nor hand-produced.