The Equestrian Origins of Silk Scarves at Hermès
, by Choon Hee Lee, 1 min reading time
The Equestrian Origins of Silk Scarves at Hermès. Today, this type of silk ribbon scarf is loved for its versatility — often tied around handbag handles, worn around the neck, or styled in the hair. It combines functionality with elegance, continuing the tradition of practical luxury rooted in Hermès’ equestrian origins. Rather than being only a decorative accessory, the silk scarf represents a long-standing heritage of craftsmanship, storytelling, and timeless French style.
Hermès was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès as a harness and saddle workshop in Paris. In its early years, the house specialized in crafting high-quality equestrian equipment for horse-drawn carriages, serving European nobility with exceptional leather craftsmanship.
This strong equestrian heritage remains at the core of the brand’s identity today.
In 1937, Hermès introduced its first silk carré (square scarf), marking the beginning of its silk scarf tradition. These designs were deeply inspired by the brand’s origins, often featuring equestrian motifs such as bridles, saddles, reins, and horses. The scarves reflected the same attention to detail and craftsmanship found in Hermès leatherwork.
Over time, silk scarves became an important part of the brand’s visual language, representing elegance, craftsmanship, and French artistic heritage.
The slim silk ribbon scarf style, now widely known in fashion as a “Twilly,” evolved as a versatile way to style silk accessories. While similar narrow silk scarves existed in fashion history, the style was later popularized and reinterpreted by Hermès through its “Twilly d’Hermès” collections.
Today, this type of silk ribbon scarf is loved for its versatility — often tied around handbag handles, worn around the neck, or styled in the hair. It combines functionality with elegance, continuing the tradition of practical luxury rooted in Hermès’ equestrian origins.
Rather than being only a decorative accessory, the silk scarf represents a long-standing heritage of craftsmanship, storytelling, and timeless French style.
