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Scarves – Why Do They Have Fringes?

By Taylor James

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Updated on

Scarves are an excellent addition to any wardrobe, providing slight relief from an autumn chill and essential protection against the coldest winter. Whether you are a scarf enthusiast or somebody who only has one scarf that they dig out each winter, you’ve probably noticed that most scarves share a similar design.

The length and thickness may vary, but they are the main aspects of the scarf. Many of them also have particular patterns, including the design of adding fringes to the ends. Fringes are incredibly common on scarves, and have been for many years. But why exactly do so many scarves have them?

Woman wearing a scarf

Adding to the Overall Fashion

One of the primary reasons for scarves having fringes is simple fashion. Many people feel that fringe makes a scarf feel more casual and open, and adds to the overall fashion of the piece. While scarves are typically used for protection from the elements, they can still be fashionable and fun. Adding fringe is one aspect of that.

Fringes are also relatively easy to add, which is important to consider since so many scarves are handmade. When knitting or crocheting, people want to add something unique or fashionable to their scarves, and fringe is an easy to understand and easy to create design. It also helps to give a scarf that “completely finished” look, signaling that there is nothing else to be added.

A Staple in the Industry

Fringes on scarves are certainly not a requirement – there are plenty of scarves out there with no fringe at all. However, adding fringe to the ends of each scarf has been a common sight in the clothing industry for many years. Fringe can add a bohemian feel, but it can also be sophisticated depending on the length and design.

Since adding fringe to scarves is so common, there are many designers both amateur and professional who simply haven’t considered creating a scarf with no fringes! Some may feel that scarves appear unfinished or incomplete without fringe on the ends, which contributes to its popularity.

You might be interested to know that fringes on scarves are primarily an aesthetic decision – they do not typically impact the overall security or design of a scarf. While fringes can theoretically protect the ends of a scarf from loosening or chafing, they are typically included or excluded based on personal choices.

You Can Decide If Fringe is For You!

Some people don’t care for fringes on their scarves, either for fear they will get tangled or just their general appearance. Other people love fringes on scarves and the way they add to the overall look. It is completely up to you! Both sides have plenty of scarves to offer, and the fringe itself varies quite a lot by length and appearance.

When shopping, ordering, or creating a scarf, consider what fringes can add: a more casual and put together appearance, potential protection for fraying ends, and an easy way to improve a design. Whatever you decide, fringes on scarves seem to be here to stay!

About Taylor James

As Philip Treacy once said, “How a hat makes you feel is what a hat is all about.” And on that note, I hope you enjoy your hats and find the site useful. Learn more about Hat Realm's Editorial Process.