The Hermès Scarf: History & Mystique
A new book takes an inside look at the classic French scarf’s rustic heritage and modern day designs
As an essential accessory to luxury lifestyles, the Hermès scarf has symbolized twentieth century beauty, wealth and fantasy since its creation in 1937.
The new book “The Hermès Scarf: History and Mystique” documents the rise of this fashion institution through essays about the company’s inception as well as in-depth examinations of the inimitable scarf’s design, complimented by stunning pictures of the many patterns and prints making up their 2,000-strong collection.
From 18th century maps to neo-Grecian embroidery and scarves inspired by M.C. Escher and Piet Mondrian, “The Hermès Scarf” reads as a cultural briefing reconfigured onto silk.
In Pierre-Alexis Dumas’ forward, the third generation Hermès owner emphasizes the playful side of the company and strong familial ties that began with his grandfather, Robert Dumas and his son Jean-Louis. “Never wavering in their quest or anticipating their own success, simply devoting themselves with bold enthusiasm to a mission that was always a pleasure, that of bringing the Hermès scarf into existence, first Robert [Dumas] then Jean-Louis Dumas and their band of colleagues created an accessory that has become a landmark in the history of style.”
In the accompanying essay “The Story of the Scarf,” fashion writer Nadine Coleno describes Hermès as “Simple and open in spirit, free of pretension and prejudice, forming a natural bridge between past and future, between function and appearance.”
Pre-order the book from Amazon or buy it from Thames & Hudson on its 15 July 2010 release date. See more images in the gallery below.
