Keffiyeh - a traditional headdress worn by Palestinian men (and at times women). Originated back in 3000 BC. At that time the high priests of ancient Babylonians and Sumerians wore a Keffiyeh to distinguish their rank or honor. A tradition that was soon adopted by the local farmers, looking for a way to protect their head from the high desert heat, sun, and winds of dust and sand.
While its outreach extended to other parts of the world, the Keffiyeh remained as a symbol of rank in Palestine. However, in the 1930s, the Keffiyeh became a national symbol, after the rebels wore it in their fight against the British Mandate.
As a result, the Keffiyeh was banned, which only led to it being worn by almost everyone in Palestine. Making it harder and harder for the authorities to recognize locals from rebels. However, what pushed it over the edge was in the 1960s when Yasser Arafat adopted the Keffiyeh, making it a prominent piece in Palestinian history.
The Symbolism of Keffiyeh Colors
Now, that you know a little more about Keffiyeh's history, you will understand the importance of its color. While the classic Keffiyeh remains to be a full white-colored scarf, crafted using premium-grade cotton. Today, you can find a Keffiyeh in many colors such as black, red, and more. While the checkered pattern represents a fishing net, or ears of grains - the colors are a completely different story.
Black & White - A black and white Keffiyeh are said to be associated with the Fatah - A former Palestinian National Liberation Movement, and a nationalist social-democratic political party that is the second biggest political party in the Legislative Council. Additionally, it is the biggest fraction of the allied multi-party Palestine Liberation Organization.
Red & White - The stitch work in the red and white Keffiyeh is believed to be connected with the Palestinian Marxists. Founded back in 1977, the sector is the largest sects that make up the Palestine Liberation Organization and the revolutionary socialist.
While these are mostly assumptions, and may or may not reflect the truth, but the truth of the matter is that Keffiyehs and Palestine go hand in hand. A passionate handiwork that is still made piece by piece in Palestine. While its impact has grown down a great deal since the mass production of Keffiyehs around the world. However, nothing matches the quality and detailing of a handmade Keffiyeh from Palestine. When you hold a Keffiyeh handmade in Palestine you will be able to feel the association that comes with the Keffiyeh, rather than getting another accessory that is mass-produced in China.
Today, a Keffiyeh is worn by almost every fashionable man or woman around the world.
You can see models carrying it in different manners, and colors.
However, when you are looking to make a stunning impact - you need an original Keffiyeh that is handmade just for you. Here are a few gorgeous handmade Keffiyehs made in Palestine and are shipped to different parts of the world.