Scarves Across Cultures: A Journey Through Global Styles

Scarves have been worn across cultures and history, expressing identity, beauty, and heritage. More than just accessories, they carry stories passed through generations. From the Middle East and Africa to South Asia and beyond, scarves are tied, wrapped, and draped in countless ways. Each style reflects cultural meaning and pride. The hijab, gele, and dupatta are just a few beautiful examples of this global tradition.

The hijab is one of the most widely recognized ways scarves are worn worldwide, especially in the Middle East, North Africa, and South and Southeast Asia. Commonly linked to Islamic faith and culture, it represents much more than a head covering, it embodies modesty, identity, and personal conviction. Made from materials like cotton, silk, or viscose, hijabs come in various styles. Some wrap closely around the face with ends tucked under the chin, while others drape loosely on one side and wrap around the neck. Pins, brooches, and layering with undercaps or folds help secure and enhance the look. Regional customs and personal taste influence how the hijab is styled, making each look unique. Though elegant and fashionable, its essence lies in respect and modesty, reflecting the deeper meaning scarves can carry within various cultures.

Another meaningful way scarves are worn is in Nigeria, where the gele holds deep cultural significance. Originating from the Yoruba people of West Africa, this colorful and structured headwrap was traditionally used to reflect a woman’s marital status or social rank. Today, it serves as a proud expression of Nigerian identity, commonly worn at weddings, festivals, burials, and state functions. Made from stiff yet moldable fabrics like Aso-oke (thickly woven silk), Brocade (Cotton), and Damask, the gele is wrapped to cover the head and ears while leaving the face and lower earlobes exposed. Tying a gele is considered an art form, requiring patience and skill to shape into styles such as the Small Gele, Infinity Pleats, or Butterfly Gele. More than just a striking accessory, the gele symbolizes pride, strength, femininity, and a deep sense of cultural belonging and community.

The dupatta is a widely recognized long scarf worn throughout India and other parts of South Asia, traditionally paired with outfits like the lehenga, which includes a skirt (called a ghagra or chaniya), a blouse (called a choli), and the dupatta itself. This versatile accessory can be styled in many ways, draped over the shoulders in a cape-like fashion, pleated neatly, draped over the head, or secured at the waist with a belt. The ways to wear the dupatta continue to evolve, reflecting both tradition and modern trends. It is also commonly used by women as a modest head covering in places of worship. Dupattas are made from a variety of lightweight fabrics such as silk, chiffon, and georgette, often adorned with intricate embroidery or sequins, though some designs are kept simple. This flowing, elegant cloth symbolizes modesty, dignity, and cultural identity, making it an important and beautiful element of South Asian culture.

The beauty of the hijab, gele, and dupatta reflects how wonderfully diverse cultures and countries wear and interpret scarves. Discover Kokoon’s curated collection and express your own style with our beautifully crafted silk scarves.

Photo by Khaled Ghareeb on Unsplash