THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF SCARVES: SQUARES, RECTANGLES, WRAPS, SILK, WOOL, AND MORE

28 August 2024

There are a wide variety of scarves and shawls on the market today. Based on our experience, we can identify three key differentiating criteria:

Shape and Dimensions

Material

Ways of Wearing

French scarf will attempt to list all types of scarves and shawls along with their different characteristics and uses:

SQUARE SCARVES AND SHAWLS:

Often referred to as square, this type of accessory is typically made of 100% silk, such as 90x90cm or 120x120cm squares from Haute Couture houses crafted in printed silk tweed. Very popular in the 1980’s, they are not as popular today, but they remain essential classics in any wardrobe.

You may also find smaller squares, such as 65×65 cm, perfect for a small knot around the neck. They add a splash of color to your look. Typically made of printed silk, they can also be placed on your bag, around your wrist, or used as a headband in your hair.

Still in keeping with squares, we would do well to mention the large shawls that are wrapped around the shoulders like a blanket. This is a very cozy way to wrap yourself up! These large wraps (around 140-150 cm) are often made from soft materials like wool or cotton. Perfect for winter to protect yourself from the cold, they’re also great for draping over your couch like a throw!

RECTANGULAR SCARVES:

This is the most common shape for scarves. Typically, rectangular scarves feature fringes of varying lengths at the ends, which are the shorter sides. They come in both large and small sizes.

Small rectangles are compact scarves made from slightly thick, warm fabrics (for example wool/silk or cotton/silk blends). They are very practical for daily wear during the mid-season or winter. The classic dimensions range from 45 to 65 cm in width and from 170 to 190 cm in length. For spring and summer, it is better to opt for scarves made of silk or a soft, comfortable silk-cotton blend.

Small men’s and women’s wool scarves for winter

With their larger dimensions (e.g., 100 x 190 cm), you will find that oversize shawls are very trendy this year. They offer maximum comfort and are very easy to wear. Shawls can be made from warmer, thicker materials like wool, or lighter blends such as cotton/wool or cotton/rayon. For an unparalleled feel, choose a large scarf with cashmere; you won’t be disappointed. Cashmere is the ultimate luxury material for scarves, making it perfect for a birthday or Christmas gift!

With large dimensions but made of cotton, there are also shawls known as cheiches, which are great for everyday wear in spring and summer. Cheiches are great for sun protection and come in handy on cool summer evenings. They’re usually lightweight, easy to care for, and a must-pack for your travels.

Similarly, you’ll find large rectangular scarves or shawls made of silk. These oversized, airy, and lightweight shawls are perfect for pairing with a dress on a special occasion like a wedding or baptism. Available in both solid and printed silk, you can easily match them with your outfit. These “ceremonial” shawls come in a range of colors and patterns. You can also wear them in winter over a coat for a chic, classic touch. Regardless of the season, they add color and flair to a monochrome look.

Circular Scarves and Snoods:

A snood is a circular scarf, like a tube that you pull over your head. While snoods can be made from various materials, they are often elastic and made from woolen fabrics to keep you warm and snug around the neck. Knit fabrics work well for snoods, as do woven fabrics with included elastic threads.

Today, the traditional snood is less trendy, and the term snood now often refers to a scarf wrapped multiple times around the neck for a more styled effect. However, snoods are still popular for outdoor sports, as they don’t have ends that can interfere with movement, making them a good choice for motorcyclists as well. For the same reasons, snoods are also very practical for children. French scarf offers a wide range of children’s snoods made from organic cotton, warm and comfortable, and customizable with the embroidery of your child’s name—perfect for keeping track of their gear at school.