Scarves & Wraps - General

Solame of biblical lore seductively danced for King Herod draped in seven veils, at least according to Oscar Wilde's telling of the story. But she would hardly be the last to keep herself under wraps for warmth, ornamentation, and an air of mystery.

The scarf is believed to have originated in Ancient Rome when Romans used them to keep perspiration at bay. But what began as a glorified handkerchief is today capable of effortlessly elevating any ensemble.

Once year-round staples for style-savvy women, scarves and wraps eventually faded into the fashion background. But these malleable expanses of material have made a strong comeback. Today, Hermès of Paris, appreciated for its iconic silk scarves, is but one highly coveted producer of silken panels. Other French brands including Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Saint Laurent have loyal followings, as do Italian labels Gucci, Versace, and Etro.

Whether rendered in silk, wool, cashmere, or other material, vintage scarves and wraps by big-name designers and lesser-known independent makers alike have enduring appeal.

Quick Facts

• A set of eight YSL scarves from the '70s and '80s sold at a Christie's auction in London in 2008 for £500
• In a 2014 Austin auction, a Fendi fringed cashmere shawl embellished with mink fur rosettes sold for $425
• In August 2014, a rare '40s silk scarf with a geometric design conceived by American abstract artist Irene Rice Pereira sold on eBay for $1,100