The Keffiyeh or shemagh is a traditional headdress made from a square cotton scarf in Middle Eastern countries. Historically, it has been used by Middle Eastern units for its practical benefits in harsh environments. It is worn by Arab people, Iranic nomads, especially the Kurdish people, and the Mizrahi Jews.
The word Keffiyeh means the city of Kufa, an Iraqi town on the Euphrates River. Keffiyeh is also called as 'hattah', 'mashadah', 'cemedani', or 'chafiye'.
Keffiyeh is worn in arid regions to protect the skin against sand, dust, and sunburn. It has a woven checkerboard pattern that makes it distinctive from other cloth. It is said that the pattern originated in an ancient Mesopotamian representation of grain or fishing nets.
From the 1970s to the 1980s, the Keffiyeh became a fashion accessory in America and other parts of the world. It also became popular in Asia when people wore it with camouflage clothes.
In this article, we will discuss when and where Keffiyeh originated and its benefits. Furthermore, we will also tackle how to tie a keffiyeh properly.
Cultural Significance
The shemagh holds profound cultural and historical importance in the Middle East, which has been integral to daily life for centuries. Worn by Bedouins, Arabs, Kurds, and other communities, the shemagh is more than just a practical garment; it symbolizes identity, tradition, and cultural heritage.
In many Middle Eastern countries, the shemagh is a key component of the national dress, with its design and patterns varying by region and community, reflecting local customs and histories.
Beyond its cultural significance, the shemagh has also played a crucial role in military and political contexts. Military forces, including those from the Middle East, have long utilized the shemagh for its sheer functionality in harsh weather conditions.
It provides essential protection against the sun, wind, and blown dust, making it indispensable in arid environments. Additionally, the shemagh has been a powerful symbol of resistance and solidarity in various political movements, embodying the spirit of defiance and unity.
History of Keffiyeh
The Keffiyeh has a long history. Traditional head coverings like the keffiyeh and shemagh hold significant cultural importance, serving both practical and symbolic purposes. Before it became popular internationally, it was used by Arab peasants and Bedouins for centuries to protect themselves from dust, sand, sunburn, plus the coldness of the winter.
In the early 20th century, the Bedouins and the peasants traveled across cities and countries. Thus, more people have learned about Keffiyeh.
Meanwhile, in 1936, the peasants and the Palestinian villagers had an Arab Revolt against Zionist and British colonial forces. The Palestinians used the Keffiyeh as a symbol of resistance and to distinguish themselves from other people.
Ultimately, the Keffiyeh became a symbol of solidarity. The Keffiyeh became popular in the 1960s as Yasser Arafat of the Palestinian forces wore it to fight against the Israelis.
With his strength and leadership, the Keffiyeh became a popular symbol of resistance. Several political activities and hipsters used the Keffiyeh from the 1970s to the 1980s, and ultimately, it became a trend in the West.
In 2007, the Keffiyeh reached its height and became a fashion accessory. Until today, the Keffiyeh is used as an adornment and as protection, especially when traveling.
Keffiyeh Variations
The keffiyehs worn by the Palestinians are now a mixture of wool and cotton to enable quick drying and keep the wearers' heads warm. It is folded in half like a triangle and worn across the forehead.
Often, it is held in place by an 'agal' or a circle of rope. It is available in white, orange, and black colors. Some people wear the shemagh into a turban, while others wear it loosely draped on the back and shoulders.
In the past, people wore the Keffiyeh with the 'taqiyah cap' or wrapped around the rim of a 'fez cap.' The red and white Keffiyeh is popular in Jordan and Saudi Arabia, known as 'shemagh made.'
Sometimes, it has tassels on its sides that indicate status symbols. It is made of cotton or flax. The bigger the tassel, the higher the status the wearer occupies in society. Meanwhile, the Keffiyeh in Yemen is available in a red-white-and black-white pattern.
Benefits of using a Keffiyeh
There are many uses and benefits of using a keffiyeh, especially when traveling. First, it can protect the wearers from dust, sand, and sun. Additionally, it can be draped to provide coverage and protection for the upper arms.
You can use it to cover the face and the head, especially when traveling on motorcycles, horses, camels, etc., especially under the scorching heat of the sun. Meanwhile, the Keffiyeh can also give you warmth if you travel on cold nights, especially in the desert.
Just wrap it around your head and neck, and you can survive the cold night. Second, the Keffiyeh can be used as a cloth to wipe the excessive sweat in your body. It is useful when hiking, running, or doing other extreme activities. It is small, fast-drying, and lightweight.
Thus, the sweat that it absorbs will dry fast as you travel. You can also use the Keffiyeh as a ground cloth when you sit on the ground. Third, the Keffiyeh can be used as a pillow, blanket, and eye mask, especially when sleeping.
Sometimes, you sleep outdoors without luxurious sleeping accessories, and indeed, the Keffiyeh can do the magic. It can’t give you a sound sleep.
However, this cloth is better than nothing at all. Fourth, it can be used as something else apart from a body cover.
It can be used as a hobo sack/ bag to hold a few valuables, an arm sling when you accidentally break an arm, a bandage/ tourniquet when you are bleeding, a rope to hold a few things, a weapon as self-defense by turning it in a flail with a rock or a sling, and a signal flag if you need to get someone’s attention, especially in the wild.
Furthermore, it can be used as a baby hammock, a baby wrap, and many other things if you use your imagination.
Different Ways to Wear a Shemagh
Cowboy/ Bandana/ Cool scarf method
Try this method if you wish to have a fashionable look when using a keffiyeh and have good protection against the wind. The steps are the following:
-
Fold the cloth and create a triangle out of it.
-
Wrap the edge and fold it on your nose and mouth. Make sure that the lower half of your face is covered with the other half of the triangle.
-
Take the right and left corners on the back of your neck, cover the shoulders, and cross the ends on top of the other without making a knot.
-
Next, put the two ends of the cloth from the back of your neck to the front of your shoulders and tie it just right. Again, the knot shouldn't be so tight that you find it difficult to breathe, but not too loose so that the Keffiyeh doesn't hold.
-
Tuck the remaining portion of the cloth inside your jacket if you wish to prevent the dust from getting inside your nose or mouth.
-
On the other hand, if you wish to hide the remaining cloth, you can tie them in another knot beneath the lower corner of the Keffiyeh.
-
If the wind has stopped, you can bring down the cover of your nose and mouth and put the Keffiyeh on your neck. Adjust the cloth if necessary.
Tactical/ Military Method
This method is used for increased protection against debris for it offers more coverage in the airways. It also offers protection on the head. The steps are the following:
-
Open the shemagh in a full square and fold it into two until it becomes a triangle.
-
Next, cover your forehead with the folded edge. Place the cloth in the middle of your forehead and ensure that the right portion is longer than the left one by almost half.
-
After that, place the left side of the cloth under your chin and hold it in place using your right hand.
-
Take the right side of the Keffiyeh, place it on your nose and mouth, and wrap it around your head until its end meets the end of the left side of the cloth.
-
Tie the two ends of the cloth. Again, make sure that it's not too loose that the Keffiyeh falls and not too tight that you can't breathe properly. Adjust the cloth if necessary.
Traditional Way
The last and common method is to wear the shemagh traditionally. Traditional head coverings like the shemagh hold cultural significance and are used for protection against the sun, cold winds, and other elements. This is best to protect the face, mouth, and nose against dust, fire, or other elements in the environment. Here are the steps:
-
First, fold the cloth in half, and make it a triangle.
-
Next, cover your forehead with the folded edge. Place the cloth in the middle of your forehead and ensure that the ends are equal on both sides.
-
Then, place the right side of the Keffiyeh underneath your chin. Take its end on your left side and left shoulder. Hold it steady for a while, using your left hand.
-
Now, place the left side of the Keffiyeh over your face and pull it to the right using your right hand. Cover your mouth and nose.
-
Knot the two ends of the Keffiyeh behind your head just right. Make sure that it’s not too loose that the Keffiyeh falls and not too tight that you can’t breathe properly. Adjust the Keffiyeh when necessary.
Advanced Tying Methods
While the traditional tying method remains popular, several advanced tying methods can offer different styles and enhanced functionality. One such method is the “point three quarters” technique.
This involves folding the shemagh into a triangle and then wrapping it around the head and face, leaving one corner hanging down. This method provides excellent sun protection and is particularly effective in harsh weather conditions, shielding the wearer from the elements.
Another advanced tying method is the “left hand” technique. This approach is tailored for those who are left-handed or prefer using their left hand for tying.
It involves wrapping the shemagh around the head and face, starting with the left hand and securing it in place. This method ensures a snug fit and can be adjusted for comfort and protection, making it a versatile option for various situations.
By exploring these advanced tying methods, you can personalize your shemagh-wearing experience, ensuring both style and practicality in any environment.
Tips on how to buy a Shemagh
Now that we know how to tie a shemagh, it’s time to know what to look out for when buying one. Buying one can sometimes be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time.
Thus, these are some of the features that you should check out in choosing a shemagh in the market:
Color
A light-colored shemagh is recommended if you plan to use it in warm and sunny weather. If you plan to use it during cold and cloudy weather, choose darker colors like black or red. Be careful in using a shemagh in visiting Arab countries or if you wish to wear one to make a political statement.
Comfort
Check if the product is comfortable in your skin and other body parts. You will be wrapping the Keffiyeh around your neck, head, and face; thus, it mustn't irritate you. Make sure not to buy a product because it only looks good, but it doesn't feel good. Its comfort must be your top priority.
Durability
An item that can easily be damaged is a bad investment for a keffiyeh. Thus, make sure that the product you're buying is durable. Check the craftsmanship of the Keffiyeh, such as its seams. Sometimes, investing money in a good product manufactured by a trusted company can save you from hassle. You can also confidently use the product no matter where you go.
Material
When buying a shemagh or Keffiyeh, always choose the best material, which is cotton. A cotton shemagh is sturdy and lightweight. It is indeed helpful if you need an additional and urgent bag when traveling. It is resistant, and it can work in many ways.
Cotton keffiyeh can dry immediately, especially when you use it as a towel to wipe your excessive sweat and moisture from rain or snow during summer days. Lastly, a cotton keffiyeh can keep your body's temperature constant and protect you from heat or cold.
Weight
Keffiyeh comes in various kinds according to its weight. If you wish to use a keffiyeh as a blanket to protect your body against the cold weather, then a heavy product is best for you. But if you plan to use a keffiyeh to protect yourself from the sun or use one for fashion, then a lighter product is recommended for you.
Size
Size is also an important factor to consider when buying a keffiyeh. Opt for a bigger product if you wish to use it often on camping, hiking, or other outdoor activities. However, if you plan to use it for fashion or other uses, a smaller size can come in handy.
Conclusion
In sum, a keffiyeh is a widely used product today. It embodies the beautiful culture of our Arabian brothers, which has been honed through time. This piece of cloth has been used as a symbol of unity and political ideology of many organizations worldwide.
Furthermore, it is a useful adornment to protect the face and other body parts from various weather conditions. It has helped people survive outdoors for many years, and truly, it will be used by many people in the years to come.
