Step into a world where the opulent tapestries of Polish King Sigismund Augustus reign supreme. My A/W 2023 Silk Scarves collection draws inspiration from these historic treasures, once housed in the venerable Wawel Castle of Cracow. They are a testament to centuries of elegance and creativity, now preserved within the walls of a national museum.
My A/W 2023 collection invites you to step into the heart of these enchanting fairytale forests. The colour palette mirrors the rich, warm tones of autumn and winter, infused with an enticing splash of raspberry red to breathe life into the season.
At the core of my collection lies ‘The Fairytale Forest’ scarf, an artful symphony of luxuriant greenery and blossoming irises. Legend whispers that the first glimpse of an iris sparks a love that blooms in return. Within this enchanting narrative, our protagonists take centre stage: the ‘girafficorn’ and a heron engaged in a graceful tussle with a coiled serpent around the bird’s beak. The ‘girafficorn’ embodies boundless imagination and the extraordinary, while the heron, a timeless symbol of tranquillity and harmony, engages in a delicate dance of good versus evil with the serpent.
Every design commences as a hand-drawn sketch, a testament to the unwavering dedication and artistic precision imbued in each piece. With three captivating colour options, my A/W 2023 silk scarves collection extends an invitation to immerse yourself in a world of timeless elegance, boundless imagination, and artistic excellence.
Discover ‘The Fairytale Forest’ and allow it to spirit you away to where the wonders of nature and the depths of symbolism coalesce, where the mundane transcends into the extraordinary. Embrace the essence of Polish King Sigismund Augustus magnificent tapestries and experience the enchantment of my A/W 2023 collection.
Read more about the inspiration and view how the magic happens here TAMBOR WORLD
Hand-illustrated scarves are timeless presents to gift to your beloved ones.
The most magical time of the year is just around the corner. The gifting season already starts this year.
Silky gifts are ready to start the journey to get under the Christmas tree on time. Our scarves are beautifully packed in gift boxes as a standard, making these silky treasures perfect Christmas presents.
Watch our Christmas YT video and immerse yourself in the Christmas mood.
Enjoy silky winter wonderland and our snowman sneaking around with Christmas presents 🎁☃️
Organic Cotton Silk Scarves. And we’re not talking just any silk and cotton. Your new favourite accessory comes in a delicate blend of 50% organic cotton and 50% silk, in several subtly gorgeous hand-illustrated designs that tell enchanting stories.
So rest assured you’ll never run out of things to talk about – and simply toss them over your shoulders with aplomb. No big deal.
Each piece is hand illustrated and has been designed to be worn as a shawl – your way. The collection includes an array of designs from intricate patterns incorporating whimsical (and sometimes fearsome) animals and florals.
This collection is perfect for gifting someone special or adding some unique style to your wardrobe.
Hand-illustrated designs tell enchanting stories
The idea of telling a story through hand-illustrated designs is an old one, but we at Ilona Tambor are particularly interested in the way these designs can shape our notion of time and space, showing us new perspectives on the world around us.
We create each design with this in mind – that it should be something special that helps you see things differently. As such, we draw inspiration from nature and fascinating Slavic folklore to tell our own stories; whether they’re inspired by watercolour flowers or woodland animals, they add a touch of magic to everyday life.
Peace silk – Your sustainable choice
Peace silk is a term for the silk produced by worms that are fed with mulberry leaves and not subjected to any kind of stress, this process results in a stronger, more durable material than regular silk.
We have sourced these materials from small-scale producers in India who are committed to ethical manufacturing practices. We believe that every step of the process should be under close scrutiny and we have chosen to work with these suppliers because they share our values and practices.
Lightweight – Wear them throughout the year
This lightweight shawl (Organic Cotton Scarves) can be worn throughout the year and is great for both hot summer days and cool autumn evenings, in addition can also be used as a scarf or light blanket, depending on how you want to wear it.
We have carefully selected the finest organic cotton, and silk yarns to create this collection. These natural fibres help to keep you warm without overheating, making them ideal for autumn and winter.
ILLUSTRATED WOOL SILK SHAWLS – THE PERFECT GIFT IDEA THIS SEASON
*New* – The Beauty of Diversity Green Wool Scarf just landed in our shop.
The Gift of Elegance This Autumn
Do you know someone with an appreciation for the more luxurious side of life? A hand-illustrated wool-silk scarf makes the ideal gift! Are you looking for a timeless present to gift to your girlfriend or boyfriend? Perhaps your mum and dad, or even to just bring a smile to a friend or favourite colleague’s face? Our range of signature accessories is an exceptional choice. Exquisitely hand-woven in Italy, there’s a myriad of ways to tie these scarves.
There are just that many more ways to mix up your style to match any occasion. If you’re still wondering what to get your loved one during these colder months, we’re here to help! Spread the mood of hope and possibility this season with a hand-illustrated, wool-silk scarf from the Ilona Tambor collection.
Discover inspiration behind The Beauty of Diversity Design
For an unexpected approach to add that refined (and possibly even quirky) sophistication and graphic novelty to your ensemble this season, look no further than the classic silk scarf. Of course, as designers and street style celebrities have demonstrated time and time again, this trendy accessory may be worn in a variety of ways. There’s no shortage of fashionable style options, whether it’s worn as a classic headwrap or an elegant bracelet, or a belt with a punk edge. Check out our list of this season’s hottest silk scarf styles!
Tie a Scarf as a Headscarf
Adding a simple, charming boho look to your outfit is easily achievable with the headscarf. And, here’s the thing, with one of our patterns and colour options, you’re going to get an extraordinary look that definitely turns heads. Wear this with minimal jewellery – let your personality and silk accessory do the talking.
To tie your scarf, grab two diagonal corners of it and fold it in half to create a triangle. Drape the long edge over one side of your head so that the ends are coming out on either side. Take those ends back around to where they started at your nape – this will be just underneath the pointy corner – then tie them together with a knot so that when you pull tight, there is enough slack for you to wrap or position however suits best. Unforgettable.
Tie a Scarf as a Dress
This look is all about soft, statement glam! This one takes minimal work for a refined, boho-chic result and makes a dazzling possibility during any season and at any event – whether you’re at an art exhibit or going chic at the beach during summer.
Tie one end of a large scarf around your neck, so that you don’t have any loose ends that stick out at the back. Now, wrap the longer end of the scarf around your body. Tuck it in and hide it under the shorter end. And that’s it, you’re pretty much done, ready to go with those goddess vibes.
Tip: If you like, tie a ribbon around your waist for a touch of extra, subtle flair as you accentuate your curves and play up the look a little.
Tie a Scarf as Top
You’ve probably realised that achieving hot looks with a silk scarf doesn’t take that much effort. That’s exactly why we find them to be the perfect accessory. Here, we’re presenting you with another classic, but edgy look that offers a plethora of looks to work with. What’s more, the more prints you own, the more options you have – even with this one style.
We’re talking about wearing a silk scarf as a top or as a bandana top. It’s proving to be a hot look as we’re soon moving towards Spring/Summer 2022. Here at Ilona Tambor, we’re moving away from the classic paisley cowboy look, opting for something more whimsical and enchanting. There’s more room to move between formal and smart casual with our prints.
How to tie it? Fold your scarf in half so that it makes a triangle. With the open end of the triangle facing down, wrap both ends of your scarf around your chest and tie them together on the back. Simple. Effective.
Tip: Tuck the point at the bottom for an alternative way to wear this look.
Tie a Scarf as a Belt
One thing is clear: Silk scarves are making a big splash. Not only are they a chic way to jazz up any cold-weather ensemble, but they are now being used to improve and expand a personal look. They can take the place of a belt, giving the wearer a fresh, polished look. This chic and flattering way to wear a scarf is a great way to switch up any work outfit.
To get started, first tie the silk scarf as you would a regular belt, keeping a loose tail to the rear. There’s always the option of ruffling things up a bit for an edgier touch, too. At the end of the day, the premise is simple, but the result uplifts an entire outfit.
Tie a scarf as a Shrug or Cape
Perhaps you are looking for a new way to wear a scarf. The easy, chic, and super flattering way to wear a scarf this season is as a shrug or cape. Try wearing a voluminous scarf over a silk blouse for an amazing look, or perhaps an oversized scarf will fit a turtleneck with ease. What’s even better is that the simple, classic way to tie a scarf as a cape is to simply tuck it into the collar of your blouse and knot it at the back. The result is an effortlessly chic look that will take you from day to night. Dress it up for a party If you are heading on a holiday or family event.
This year’s classic wardrobe staple is certainly a perennial accessory. We’ve provided you with some of the more imaginable silk scarf styles for wearing this wardrobe option and we’re sure that your time will be well-spent perfecting the various styles!
How to tie a silk scarf? Keep following us on Instagram for more exciting looks and options!
Ilona Brings Slavic Mythology into Life on Silk Scarves and Accessories
For this season’s looks, Ilona has drawn inspiration from her Slavic roots, allowing tradition and mythology to come to life in her designs. A testament to her heritage, she brings mesmerizing themes to wearable silk accessories. With darker undertones, each scarf tells an intricate story through a spectacular eye for dazzling design. Both Slavic mythology, and in particular, demonology, have long enraptured the mind of this designer with her Polish roots. Growing up and listening to tales of the creation of the world, the gods that watch over it, and the people who inhabit it, Ilona envisioned the nature of the world through this lens.
“The stories were sometimes dark, sometimes happy, mysterious, and coarse. Sometimes they were scary, lined with laughter, and often came with a warning or lesson. Above all, they were original,” explains Ilona. It’s this originality that shines through in this season’s designs, featuring Leshy – the forest guardian – and the interplay between the Griffin and Basilisk.
A keen connoisseur of world mythologies may have picked up on Slavic mythology entering the public consciousness of late through the interpreted works of The Witcher, by Polish writer Andrzej Sapkowski. Both the games and its Netflix adaptation have propelled some of these stories in front of the contemporary eye.
But this is only one slice of the rich world seen through a Slavic lens. Ilona Tambor’s silk scarf designs offer the wearer the soul of stories told around a shepherd’s fire as the smoke creates a backdrop for the imagination of the listener. This imagination is harnessed and painted through innovative means.
Every silk scarf begins its life illustrated by hand – an intricately creative process. Before being printed on sustainably sourced silk, these patterns are manipulated digitally, adding color and spirit into each design. Discover more here Tambor World.
Looks and Possibilities – When to Wear a Silk Scarf
Personal style is about individuality. It’s about opting for what represents you, your identity, and your unparalleled personality. Sometimes, with an outfit, less is more. Sometimes, more is more. It really all depends on how you’re feeling on a particular day, what works for a particular event, or whether you’re working with limited options if you might be travelling. If you’ve got a few accessories in mind and you’re looking at when to wear a silk scarf, the answer is simple. These highly versatile pieces are priceless when it comes to jazzing up any look, any time.
When to Wear a Silk Scarf? Use One to Elevate a Simple Look
The beauty of our world is that you’re able to find qualities that represent who you are wherever you look. We draw our inspiration and passion from the world around us, we’re energised by it as we find beauty in the most unexpected places.You can be that inspiration for yourself and for others.
Elevating the everyday is where a silk scarf really shines. Yes, they’re available in muted tones, too, but to transform a simple look, a vivid silk scarf brings colour and dynamism to your ensemble. While they contribute to the visual appeal of your look, we all know what a bold dash of colour can do for your mood, too.
Transform Monochromatic Ensembles with Your Spirit
When dressing up in either a simple casual or chic, smart outfit, that perfectly-picked dash of colour could come from a complementary silk scarf. It’s all the more special when your silk accessory of choice shows off a truly unique work of art, something intricate, or something inspired. While we all love to add that pop of colour to an ensemble, we’re even more favourable towards one that’s truly characteristic, representing your innate spirit.
The Ideal Travel Companion – Business and Pleasure
When going away on holiday, we purge that bad energy while rejuvenating ourselves. Looking spectacular for those holiday snaps is a priority, too. Your outfit options may be limited, but here’s a pro tip: silk scarves don’t take up much space in your luggage at all!
They provide a host of options to mix and match with when you’re low on space. You’re afforded the ability to bring that special bit of soul to an ensemble that you may have packed for practical reasons. The classic square scarf, on its own, works in a number of charming ways depending on how you tie it. On the other hand, there’s just something immeasurably enchanting about wearing a silk twilly scarf or silk neckerchief tied just right. And when you’re in a bit of a hurry and your hair just isn’t doing what you want it to? That bold silk scarf can be turned into killer statement head wrap.
On the other end of the spectrum, a business trip that calls for muted colours – blacks and greys, white and tan, maybe some navy – can do with a visionary twist. Lift corporate chic from the mundane no matter the season.
All you’ve got to do is infuse that power look with a transformative, unforgettable silk scarf.
How to tie a silk scarf? Keep following us on Instagram for more exciting looks and options!
Special addition to the S/S 2021 Scarves collection. New designs The Moroccan Day’s in 3 different colourways and various sizes. I was working on this design last 2 months and finally, it’s live !
Read the story behind this scarf illustration:
Known for its cultural splendour, ambience, and ancient wonders, the lands of Morocco hold many wonders and magical secrets. The silhouettes and imagery of this place captivate and enchants us, and for good reason. And yet, there’s something else beyond the souks and cafes, the mosques, and the rooftops – something else with a legacy that goes back even further than Morocco’s alluring civilisation of music, mosaics, and warmth.
To read more about the inspirations behind The Moroccan Day’s illustration head to the Tambor World.
See how the illustration becomes wearable art and enjoy the variety of possible knots and how to wear the silk scarf.
In this time of change and uncertainty, the release of my brand new Spring/Summer 2021 Collection of silk scarves and silk cushions has a dual purpose. At Ilona Tambor, I believe that art and fashion serve to motivate and elicit emotion and inspiration in both the wearer and the viewer. Since I believe that art serves a purpose, it’s my responsibility as an artist and designer to use my art as a vehicle to uplift and to inspire hope through my craft.
Certainly, we’ve all felt the lack of freedom over this past year. Being locked in our homes without the ability to travel freely and experience the world as we had become so accustomed to has dimmed the flame of creativity and passion in our hearts.
This soon-to-be-launched collection of premium, new silk scarf and silk cushion prints aims to help revive that passion, by taking the wearer – and the viewer – on a journey of enchanting colours, fairy tales, fragrances, and invigorating imagination.
My new Spring/Summer Collection of 2021 comprises designs inspired by the animals that once used to roam Morocco. Surrounded by the land’s indigenous flowers and fruits, these works are infused with the tangible aura of the regions fragrances and mystical spirit that resides both now and eternally.
Beginning as hand-drawn illustrations, I digitise these designs before printing them onto luxurious, ethically sourced silk. These illustrations resonate with our changing world and mentality, urging us to appreciate the beauty around us and work to preserve it.
Wafting Whimsy – Silk Scarves and Silk Cushions
Available on square scarves, ribbon scarves, and twillies, I’ve now made these patterns accessible on comfortable cushions, too. Since going outdoors is a less frequent occurrence these days, art inspired by the lands of Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains can now function as a muse in your own home while staying safe amidst luxurious comfort.
While my previous range offered a whimsical splash of colour and elegance on the pages of three Condé Nast Traveller issues in 2020, the latest collection brings extends its reach. The Ilona Tambor label offers a new variation of silk scarf, along with a home décor option to illuminate interior spaces.
Illustrated Wool-Silk Scarves – The Perfect Gift Idea This Season
We’ve entered 2021. We probably speak for all of us when we say that we’re happy to see the back of 2020!
2021 is the year of hope, so here’s to hoping that things begin to look better for all of us. Our range of wool-silk scarves might just help with that!
This past Christmas and New Year were far from what we’re used to. We’re trying to spread the cheer in 2021 with our range of wool-silk scarves – for her and for him! With the chilly weather here in the UK and other parts of the northern hemisphere, staying warm is a priority! When heading out to work, for a stroll in the brisk, fresh air, or if you’re just venturing out to get some snacks to binge on, you want to look good while keeping the cold away. You’ve probably got loved ones who can’t work remotely and have to leave their homes. Why not surprise them an artisanal, hand-illustrated wool-silk scarf?
Hand-Woven Love from Italy
Even though this time it’s a little different than usual, love is still in the air during February! And hey, Valentine’s Day coming up soon. Thought you might need a quick reminder about that little occasion. A luxury, premium-crafted, wool-silk scarf that’s hand-woven in Italy certainly hits the mark as a thoughtful and stunning gift option.
There’s lots to choose from, too – keeping warm and looking haute is more than just possible! The Ilona Tambor range of hand-woven and hand-illustrated scarves are a definitive conversation piece. These bespoke patterns and designs promise to keep a loved one warm – both on the outside and inside! These deep, vivid colours and intricate designs are memorable, too, ensuring that your aesthetic and practical gift will never be forgotten.
Colour-popping Vintage Looks with Hand-Illustrated Wool-Silk Scarves
When it comes to style and layering options, your fashionista friend or loved one will have infinite possibilities in working this timeless gift into their chic ensembles this year. Hand-woven in Italy, our wool-silk scarves are a constant hug during the colder months. Remind them of you even when you’re not around! And, as the vintage-inspired trends have been picking up pace, we’re seeing more “Peaky Blinders” looks on the streets. An Ilona Tambor wool-silk scarf goes a long way in putting a special spin on the look – illuminating the more demure layers of coats, waistcoats, and flat caps with a suitable colour and mood pop!
The Gift of Elegance This Winter
Do you know someone with an appreciation for the more luxurious side of life? A hand-illustrated wool-silk scarf makes the ideal gift! Are you looking for a timeless present to gift to your girlfriend or boyfriend? Perhaps your mum and dad, or even to just bring a smile to a friend or favourite colleague’s face? Our range of signature accessories are an exceptional choice. Exquisitely hand-woven in Italy, there’s a myriad of ways to tie these scarves. There are just that many more ways to mix up your style to match any occasion.
If you’re still wondering what to get your loved one during these colder months, we’re here to help! Spread the mood of hope and possibility this season with a hand-illustrated, wool-silk scarf from the Ilona Tambor collection.
Silk scarves and headwraps go together like strawberries and cream. They’re inseparable. Scarves made of exquisite silk have been used to adorn the bodies of both women and men through time. While it’s true that silk scarves provide that certain something to an outfit when draped nonchalantly around the neck, or tied into something more elaborate as an alternative to a statement necklace, a whole new world is opened up when they’re tied into a headwrap. If you’re looking for how to tie a headwrap, read on!
Headwraps are, excuse the pun, intertwined with tradition and are tied to various cultures around the world – some cultures wear them in a very similar fashion, for the same reasons, while they’re significant for other reasons in other parts of the world. Ghanaian women are famous for wearing ornately tied, brightly-coloured headwraps called duku, while South African and Namibian women similarly call their wrapped headgear doek. Traditionally, headwraps function as social markers, showing status, ethnicity, religious affiliation, or marital status, while it’s gained popularity today as both a fashion accessory and a practical one. For natural hair, especially curly hair that needs more care to keep breakage from occurring, a silk headwrap will brighten up your look and your day!
Reimagining the Headband
Headbands are a simple way to hold hair back when you’re not in the mood to tie it all up in a high bun or ponytail. It lets your mane flow, keeping you free to feel the wind in your hair. Yes, while it’s a great choice for a carefree day, you still want a fashionable edge to your look. Using a printed silk scarf. Tying your hair up this way is great for when you’re in a hurry to get to work in the morning and you’re running late. You’ve run out of dry shampoo and the roots of your hair are showing signs of oiliness. Here’s how to tie a headwrap with a luxurious silk scarf. You can opt for a classic silk scarf size of 90 x 90cm or the larger option of 135 x 135cm.
Place the scarf behind your head.
Bring the ends to the front and criss-cross the scarf.
Twist the ends over.
Bring both ends around to the back.
Tie a knot and tuck in the ends to polish the look.
Wrapping for Coverage
When you’re looking for a little more coverage than a reimagined headband will offer, this headwrap style is ideal for when you want to rock loose hair or keep your hair completely covered. It’s a commonly worn headwrap across cultures, and its turban-esque vibe offers a bohemian twist to a somewhat corporate, buttoned-up look – especially when using one of our printed scarves. You’ll need a larger scarf for this wrap, so make sure to use one of our oversized silk scarves of 135 x 135cm.
1. Cover your head with the scarf, holding the ends together on either side, behind your head.
2. Criss-cross the ends behind your head, ensuring that both ends are held together.
3. Bring the ends to the front, then tie one last knot here to give the look that splendorous finish.
4. Last, tuck the ends behind this knot to complete the look.
A Crown with a Twist
A little more intricate, this crown-style headwrap puts a spin on both smart-casual and formal. It brings attention to your favorite pair of drop earrings, and also shows off the neck, allowing you to add a glimmer to your look with a subtle, but complimentary necklace. Both the classic 90 x 90cm size of a silk scarf or the larger 135 x 135cm option is perfect.
1. Tie your hair back into a tight bun, or slick it back.
2. Cover your head with the scarf, pulling it towards the back.
3. Gather the ends and tie a knot.
4. Twist the separate ends over each other repeatedly, creating a rope.
5. Pull the twisted rope around the front, giving your crown a “wreath”, and tuck the end in near the back of your neck.
How to tie a silk scarf? keep following us on IG for more exciting looks and options!
No closet is complete without a silk scarf or two. Let’s be real – it’s the ultimate accessory to add a dash of chic splendour to any outfit. In all its shapes and forms, the scarf is more than just an accessory, it’s a fashion must-have. A sensible and gorgeous accessory, it’s no wonder that they’ve been around for millennia! We’ve got records to show that Nefertiti herself, back in 350 BC, was more than just the queen of Egypt, but a slay queen, too, wearing a wrapped scarf under her jewelled headdress. With a long history behind them, there’s a variety of ways to tie a silk scarf.
So, how to tie a scarf in different ways to suit your style, you ask? Let’s take a look at the three of the most popular ways that have made the silk scarf an icon in fashion.
The Kelly Wrap – Silk Scarf Glamour
There’s particular femininity that goes hand-in-hand with the silk handkerchief scarf a la Grace Kelly. Let’s not forget that Audrey Hepburn did her fair share to turn this look, iconic, too! Kelly and Hepburn immortalised the printed silk scarf look that takes us back to the 1950s and 1960s – this is old-school glam that effortlessly brings elegance to almost any ensemble!
Tying the “Kelly Wrap” really is as easy it looks. Follow these 4 steps and you’ll be rocking that silk scarf with luxurious grace in about a minute.
Take a square silk scarf and fold it along the diagonal.
Now, place the scarf over your head – make sure the folded edge faces the front.
Bring the folded corners under your chin and cross them around your neck.
Neaten the look by tying the folded corners behind the neck and catch the loose corners under the knot at the back.
Other than looking flawless, this style has the practical benefit of protecting expensive hair colour when you’re making the most of the summer sun.
The Neck Wrap – A Necklace Alternative
The 1950s also saw another silk scarf style that brings vintage charisma to the contemporary fashion – the neck wrap. Wrapping a scarf around the neck was used back in Ancient Rome to keep the neck clean, but that’s a convenient practical by-product of this classic look that Elizabeth Taylor and, more recently, Cate Blanchett have popularised.
For the perfect neck wrap, we’ve broken it down into 4 simple steps:
Form an “S” fold by folding a rectangular scarf twice lengthwise.
Drape the folded scarf around your neck and let the ends hang down the back. Cross the ends over and bring them to the front.
Loop the ends around one another, then pass them around the back again.
Knot the ends at the back of the neck and clean it up by tucking the remaining length under your collar.
Pairing this style with a button-down blouse makes for a super-chic option, while the scarf illuminates the look, acting like a signature statement necklace.
The Bandana – An Effortless Twist
Wearing a scarf as an accessory is something of a French staple, with the triangle being amongst the most popular modern ways of tying the scarf. This look exudes flair when a patterned silk scarf is used to accessorise, of course, as Sienna Miller exhibited as a must-have look of the “new normal”.
Working best with a large square scarf, the following steps result in a nonchalant, sophisticated aesthetic:
Fold a scarf in half and form a large triangle.
Place the triangle at the front of your neck, pointed tip facing down.
Tie the loose ends behind your neck, or bring them back around to the front to hang neck to the triangle.
Simple, sleek, and chic, made all the more luxurious and charismatic with an exclusive printed scarf from our range. How to tie a silk scarf? It all begins here, at Ilona Tambor, so keep following us for more exciting looks and options!
