The neckerchief is a clothing accessory worn around the neck that combines the appearance of a tie with that of a handkerchief. It comes in many variations and styles and can be worn with a variety of shirts and accessories. It is best known as a triangular scarf worn by sailors and as a uniform for Scouts.
A variation on the kerchief, the kerchief is best known for its association with sailors and explorers. It is a clothing accessory worn around the neck that combines the appearance of a tie with that of a handkerchief. Though it comes in many variations and styles, this neckwear can be as simple as a scarf or set of scarves, and can be as complex as a specifically designed bandana with a “wiggle” that holds it in place.
Bandanas are best known as the triangular scarves worn by sailors while on ship, or as similar pieces worn by Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts with their uniforms. Neckwear can be worn with a variety of shirts and accessories, and can be tucked under the collar or worn around the neck without a collar.
In their incarnation as uniforms for Scouts and sailors, neckerchiefs are lightweight, scarf-like pieces of cloth worn for their appearance. A light rectangular cloth is folded diagonally and then rolled end to end. The two pointed ends of the rolled scarf lie in front of the sailor or explorer, with the closed end around the neck at the upper back. The ends of the scarf can be tied with a slipknot or reef knot, so that two ends emerge, or it can be held in place with a rubber band, leaving the two ends hanging down to the chest.
A common tool with sailors is a device known as a “woggle,” which is slipped over the bottom of the kerchief and used to secure the knot in the scarf. In the United States Navy, black bandanas are worn below the neck for all men and male and female junior officers. In Souting, the bandana is part of the uniform as a practical tool in the desert. It is designed to be the perfect size and shape for dressing a wound. Scout bandanas are emblazoned in the troop color.
In other fashions, bandanas may refer to scarves simply worn around the neck. Whether used to keep warm in the winter, as an accessory with an outfit, to hide the neck, or as a tie replacement for a women’s business look, the neckerchief takes on various looks. While not officially considered a neckerchief if not tied properly, similarly wrapped scarves are known as neckerchiefs and are common in Europe, especially older women across the continent.
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