DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE GUIDE ABOUT NATURAL FIBER SCARVES
A scarf is a fashion statement that communicates your individual sense of style, transforms your look and reflects your personality. Paying attention to the scarf’s fabric is important as it determines its feel, appearance and quality, making a world of difference. Be mindful that a scarf touches your skin most of the time, so how it feels is important.
Scarves have three distinct fabric categories including natural, blended and synthetic fibre. Let’s learn more about the natural fibre category.
Natural fibre scarves
Natural fibre scarves are derived from living organisms like plants and animals. They are durable, absorbent and environmentally friendly because they undergo minimal treatment.
Silk scarves
Silk is an example of a natural fibre produced by silkworms. Smooth, light, delicate, breathable and gentle best evokes the quality of silk. A silk scarf is associated with luxury and can last you a lifetime when cared for and stored correctly. Silk retains the moisture of your skin keeping your skin aglow for longer as it retains the moisture. The same applies to your hair, keeping you dry and cool. It has a high hypoallergenic quality, suitable for those with sensitive skin.
Silk satin scarves
Out of all the natural fibres, silk satin is the most valuable. Satin is a method of weaving silk fabric. A satin silk scarf is ultra-smooth, gentle, delicate, feels rich has a soft touch and creates the most luxurious appearance. Satin is a glossy fabric which produces vibrant prints on scarves and available in various thicknesses.
Wool scarves
Another example of a natural fibre is wool, which is derived from sheep. Scarves made from the best quality wool are warm, comfortable, soft, water resistant and durable. They are breathable, and the fabric regulates body temperature, keeping you warm in winter and cool in summer. Scarves made from quality wool will not cause any allergies or irritation. However, lower grade wools are the opposite - itchy and uncomfortable.
Alpaca scarves
Alpaca scarves compared to other natural fibres such as wool, have a silkier and smoother feel. The fibre is stronger, therefore lasting longer and is more durable than cashmere. It is lightweight, resistant to stains, wind and is water resistant, an ideal choice for any climate.
Cashmere scarves
Cashmere scarves are lightweight and one of the most long-lasting fibers found. Cashmere is warmer than wool, keeping you warm in winter. The fibres absorb perspiration and expel it in the form of vapour, keeping you cool in summer too. The material is silky smooth with a luxurious feel and is non-abrasive. And with no additional chemicals added, helpful for sensitive skin.
Pashmina scarves
Pashmina is made from the finest cashmere wool. The word pashm means wool in Persian. It is lightweight fabric that is super softer, breathable and smooth. The pashmina fabric is popular for its insulating characteristics, keeping you warm and protected from cold weather.
Cotton scarves
Cotton is one of the most versatile fabrics. The Cotton Voile is a great choice for scarves because it has the higher thread count than most cotton fabrics. It is lightweight, comfortable, breathable and soft. Cotton scarves generally do not cause skin irritation or itching and are a cheaper alternative.
Modal scarves
And finally, Modal. The fabric is made from spinning beech tree cellulose. Modal is more of an eco-friendly alternative to cotton because the beech trees require on average 20 times less water. The fabric is breathable, 50% more absorbent than cotton, fade-resistant, durable and drapes well.
When purchasing a scarf, be aware of the fabric materials that make up the scarf. What is important to you? Is it a luxurious look and feel? price? comfort? durability? Keep in mind buying a quality scarf can last you a lifetime when cared and stored correctly, therefore it is an investment.
At Lila and Me our scarves are made from natural materials from the highest quality silk fabric - 6A grade. Our original artist scarves bring you affordable luxury and are complimentarily wrapped beautifully within a Lila and Me gift box. The perfect gift for yourself or a loved one.