What Is a Keffiyeh?

Have you ever seen a square scarf with patterns on it worn over the head, over the neck or draped over the shoulders, and wondered what is a keffiyeh? 

A keffiyeh (kufiya or kufiyya) is an Arab traditional scarf typically produced from lightweight woven textile, such as cotton. It's been used for a long time for sun, wind and dust protection, but it can also convey cultural and regional identity.

It is also often worn alongside traditional garments like the thobe (also known as a tunic) which varies markedly in style and custom depending on country and community. If you are interested in traditional Arab and Islamic clothing, you can also find headwear and traditional clothing that are paired according to the tradition and style of the surroundings in which they exist. 

What Is a Keffiyeh Used For?

It wasn't a global fashion icon until years ago, but in those days, the keffiyeh was more of a necessity. It is huge and square so that it can be folded and turned to create a variety of shapes that suit the environment, weather and local style. 

Traditionally, it would aid:

• Cover up eyes and neck from strong sunlight.

• Keep your face shielded when dust or wind is present.

• If it is cold outside, put on more layers. 

• Complete traditional regional clothing.

Having this practical knowledge is an essential aspect for the comprehension of the keffiyeh meaning. It isn't just a contemporary style scarf. 

What Does the Keffiyeh Represent?

The answer is related to the specifics of the particular keffiyeh and the context it refers to.

The Palestinian keffiyeh is now firmly linked with Palestinian identity, heritage and unity, as a black and white scarf. It became internationally recognized in the 20th century.

But the traditional dress head covering in the Arabic world incorporates a variety of forms of the square headscarf. The color, design, fabrics, terms and fashions are different from region to region and thus can't be said that every scarf that resembles the keffiyeh has a universal political or cultural meaning.  

Keffiyeh, Shemagh and Ghutra: Are They the Same?

In some countries the same word is used for different purposes; in others, different words are used. Shemagh and ghutra can be two names for the same type of Arab traditional head covering, while keffiyeh is another name for the same traditional head covering. 

This renders the distinction between keffiyeh vs shemagh only a regional, patterned, and terminological one.

Imagine seeing a ghutra keffiyeh in a shop that sells headwear from the Gulf, and a Yemeni shemagh shop that sells shemagh in Yemen may have more distinctive designs. 

How Do You Wear a Keffiyeh?

So far as its usage is concerned, there is no one suitable way that tells how to wear a keffiyeh. First, you can take that square and fold it diagonally into a triangle shape so that it fits in the back of the head and then stretch out the excess fabric around the neck or to the face. There's a piece of fabric in Arabic fashion that is tied to keep it over the head covering in place, and it is an agal.

It can be worn either on the neck or over the shoulder. This depends on the context, cultural preferences and the event. 

Building a Traditional Outfit

The keffiyeh is just one part of a many-layered tradition of Arab and Islamic fashion. In different areas and during different seasons, men might wear headwear over a Saudi kandura, or some other type of head covering will be worn, which will appear completely different.

Apparel selection is influenced by climate also. For instance, a winter djelleba would be heavier than one for summer. There is even variation between kufis; an Egyptia banded kufi style is different from the others and isn't used as a stand-in for all, including other forms of Arab headgear. 

Conclusion: Understanding the Keffiyeh Beyond the Pattern

In this case, what is a keffiyeh? Its rudimentary form is a scarf of traditional Arab origin that also serves as a very functional piece of clothing in addition to its cultural significance. However, it has different meanings for each pattern, region, and context of its use and the black and white pattern has a special significance in Palestinian identity.

Understanding these differences will enable a person to improve on the piece of clothing. If you wish to wear traditional clothes or traditional headgear, Al-Haq Thobes has a range of articles that will help you find the right item to suit a particular style, season and culture.