Indian Bright Modal Scarf

DESIGNER'S NOTES

A vibrant Fox & Chave modal scarf with a design of paisleys and other stylised floral elements in a South Asian style.

Paisleys, known as boteh in Persian and later developed in Indian textiles, originated as stylised floral or seed motifs symbolising fertility, life, and eternity.

In Mughal India, they flourished in finely woven shawls from Kashmir, dyed with natural pigments and featuring dense, intricate arrangements. These luxurious textiles were exported to Europe in the 18th and 19th centuries, where the motif became immensely popular, especially in Britain.

The town of Paisley in Scotland began producing imitations, giving the motif its Western name. In Victorian fashion and later in psychedelic 1960s culture, paisley became a symbol of exoticism and bohemian taste. Its layered history, combining Eastern symbolism with Western reinterpretation, makes it one of the most enduring patterns in global design.

COLOURS

STYLING

Wear your Fox & Chave modal scarf in a variety of ways. Tie in a classic neck knot for timeless elegance, a French twist for a chic, tucked-in look, or a loose drape for effortless, modern sophistication. More scarf styling ideas are available in this wonderful How to Tie a Scarf book.