Stole-n Style

With the season graduating from autumn to winter,this accessory is making its presence felt. The versatility of a scarf or stole is hard to match: it can effortlessly dress up any outfit and doesn’t have any restrictions of wearability,with both men and women using it.

“Not every designer can portray creativity on a full-fledged garment. The stole or the scarf is the perfect answer to textile portrayal,” believes Vinita Passary,creative head,Anonym,adding “In the last few years,as fashion has turned towards a minimalist trend,the popularity of scarves has increased.”

Its utilitarian value makes this accessory a must-buy in the colder northern cities. Also,at places with warmer weather and strong air-conditioning,it’s equally handy. “It can be worn in different ways and clubbed with both formal and casual wear. It’s a styling piece for any garment,” says Mathieu Gugumus Leguillon,head designer at Bungalow 8.

If high-end brands like Burberry,Louis Vuitton and Hermes sell scarves and stoles,so do the ikat,Mangalagari and khadi weavers. “They are like any other unstitched garments: saris and dupattas. Thus,it is easier for our weavers to adapt,” says noted textile researcher and sari expert,Rta Kapur Chishti. Designers agree that there are no restrictions about type of fabric,texture or embellishment in a scarf. “They are like blank pages that can be filled in any way,” says Leguillon.

New York-based designer Bindya Lulla,whose collection of silk and cashmere printed scarves and shawls are available at Bungalow 8,feels,“For me,a scarf is not just functional; I see it as luxurious,wearable art.” Unlike designer ensembles,this short and chic accessory is easy on the pocket. Go on,make the most of it.

With inputs by Jagmeeta Thind Joy