There is a perception that scarves, shawls and stoles are exclusively “female” accessories. However, in today’s society among the male population are increasingly popular fashionable Palestinian shawls (Arab scarf). This thing can be called a universal. It serves not only as a headdress, but can help in a difficult situation. Men’s Arab scarf can be easily transformed into a thin rope, bandage and even a tablecloth.
Wide chequered shawl, which is in the closet of every oriental man, is called Arab scarf (shemag, Keffiyeh). The product was named after the Palestinian leader Yasser Arab scarf. For Arabs, the product is an unwavering symbol of the East. In modern society, Arab scarfs are very popular among men of different nationalities and religions. Shemagh is also widely used among the military.
It is generally believed that the characteristic plaid pattern was invented by the British, as the inhabitants of Arab countries wore exclusively light, monochrome kufi. According to history, this pattern in the coloring of the shemagh was added by the British for the soldiers (Bedouins) of their Arab Legion. In addition to the classic (black and white) colors, there are pink and crimson Arab scarf. Also possible variants of the Palestinian shawl in purple or a combination of black and yellow and white-red tones. In the countries of the Persian Gulf, it is the white shawl that is very popular.
The pattern on the Arabian scarf is created by interweaving the threads. Arabian scarves are woven from wool and cotton threads. On the modern market there are products made of viscose or synthetics. Scarves also vary in density. The shawl of light material is relevant for the summer period, and the woolen version is suitable for the fall, winter. Arab scarf perfectly combines with sports style. Young guys prefer to tie the shemag in combination with jeans and high “army” boots. The stylishly tied Arab scarf around the neck also harmonizes with bright T-shirts.
In addition to its aesthetic function, the Arabian scarf:
- protects the head from gusty wind, sand and dust;
- acts as a face camouflage;
- replaces a foot bed or cloth to support a mangled hand;
- becomes a “bag” in extreme conditions.
How to tie it?
The original accessory involves a variety of wearing options. Most often it can be seen on the head or neck of a man. According to stylists, Europeans are inclined to the latter option. To place the Arabian scarf on the neck is not difficult. The technique is as follows.
Take the shamak and fold it diagonally. We should have a triangle.
Places the Arab scarf on the chest, and we tie the ends around the neck.
In addition, many men prefer to tie the shemag as a tie. For this purpose, the scarf is also folded diagonally and placed “corner” at the back. The ends of the scarf are beautifully spread out on the chest. The tie from the Arabian scarf looks bright, eye-catching and unusual. Do not forget that the scarf can be rolled as a flagellum and also wrapped around the neck. For this Arabic scarf is placed on the chest, and the ends are rolled into plaits. They wrap it around the neck and tie it in front.
Often the shamag is used as a headdress. Such a variant is popular among the oriental representatives of the stronger sex. European men, according to stylists, are not quite close to this form of wearing a scarf. However, in hot weather an Arabian scarf perfectly protects a man from the scorching sunlight. In most cases, the scarf is attached to the head with a round hoop: we form a triangle from the Arabian scarf, with which we cover the head and fix it. The dangling ends are intertwined at the back.
The Arabs advise to wear a Palestinian headscarf in the form of a turban. However, each man has the right to choose exactly “his” option. Another method involves the use of the Arabian scarf in the form of a mask. It allows you to cover your face as much as possible from the adverse weather conditions. So your actions are as follows.
Traditionally, we fold the headscarf diagonally and cover the head (the left end of the shawl is longer).
The right end we twist into a bundle and pull it under the chin.
Cover your face with the left end. Tie the ends at the back of the head.
Arabian shawl mask is relevant for holidays in Arabian countries, which are famous for their sandstorms. Complement the image will get dark glasses.
Alternative use
Modern men use spectacular Arabian scarves not only for their direct purpose. For example, the Arab scarf tied on the belt of a bag or hips looks original. Many young people prefer to use the Keffiyeh as a voluminous bracelet. Another original option is to decorate the Arabian scarf, which is tied around the neck, with various badges.
In order to buy the Arab scarf, it is not necessary to travel to Arab countries. It is enough to order a headscarf through an online store or visit a specialized store selling oriental products. To order a kerchief is also quite possible. However, this product requires the hand of a true master from the East. By the way, the dimensions of the shemag may vary slightly.