Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Savoir Scarves

It is nothing new to frame a silk scarf and hang it on your wall as art, and I am surprised that a lot more people do not do it. However I find that there is a definite lack of imagination out there as most people tend to frame the ubiquitous Hermes scarf and plonk it on the wall. There are some wonderful abstract designs from the 60’s and 70’s that would look perfect on a white wall by themselves or grouped together.


Why should your walls have all the fun? People have been making cushions out of scarves forever, and again it is a great way to add a splash of colour to an otherwise boring sofa.






While we are sitting down, how about actually covering a chair? Here are two great ideas both using vintage Christian Dior scarves for a bit of seated savoir faire.



Table tops shouldn’t be left out either. I love the concept as below, but not sure on the choice of scarf.

I have seen some pretty hideous attempts over the years with people covering lampshades with scarves as they tend to use the wrong shaped shade. Keep the shape simple!



The longer scarves such as the Lanvin and Courreges scarves are perfect for a narrow lampshade.


There are wonderful scarves that can be bought quite easily from eBay etc that can add instant colour dash and savoir faire to any space. Sure it might take a piece of work to whip out the singer; otherwise I am sure that all of you have a seamstress who can whip you up a cushion cover or two.


9 comments:

  1. A VERY good post. I love the idea to cover a seat with a scarf.
    V E R Y G O O D P O S T!!!

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  2. Hi David, it's so lovely to meet you and spend some time on your blog! I'm looking forward to following, xx

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  3. Joe, Many thanks. Being a man I have to think of other ways I can use these vintage silk scarves I love so much!

    Sarah, and likewise. Many thanks. Hope to see you soon.

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  4. I like the very creative use of the scarves on furniture.

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  5. Hey David,

    Did you see this article?

    http://www.nytimes.com/2010/07/29/fashion/29ROW.html

    Thought you'd like to see those sketches.

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  6. What a wonderful round up! I have to admit, I have this episode of House & Home TV burned in my memory where a young girl had her granmothers Pucci scarves made into pillows, it was FAB!
    Thank you for visiting my blog, I really appreciate it :)
    Nancy

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  7. Explore, I think it is a wonderful alternative use! Love the sketches in the article you supplied!

    Nancy, You are welcome! Pucci would make wonderful pillows!

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  8. I love vintage scarves...so much style for so little cost. Unfortunately, I consider them treasures and don't have the nerve to re-purpose them in any way that they would have to be sewn or cut. Also, most people don't use silk on sofas or in living areas, and after years of cotton or synthetics, will be shocked that when exposed to sunlight, they can fade and bleach within weeks. For this reason, in some applications, it may be best to use the synthetic (fine poly) ones.

    If you tie them right, they make terrific, stylish ascots and I sometimes use them this way myself.

    I also love giving them as gifts...easy to present, easy to mail, one size fits all, etcetera. Although I have dozens, I can never resist going through the bins at the thrift shops or "puces."

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  9. SWF- I have just started collecting vintage scarves and hence the post. Am eagerly awaiting in the mail a vintage Jacques Heim from the 60's. The ascot idea had crossed my mind. Like you am kind of loathe to re-purpose them or sew them. Will have to come up with a plan.

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