The Scarf and the New Rules of Dressing During the Pandemic

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others

• You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.
• Everyone should wear a cloth face cover when they have to go out in public, for example to the grocery store or to pick up other necessities.
  • Cloth face coverings should not be placed on young children under age 2, anyone who has trouble breathing, or is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
• The cloth face cover is meant to protect other people in case you are infected.
• Do NOT use a facemask meant for a healthcare worker.
• Continue to keep about 6 feet between yourself and others. The cloth face cover is not a substitute for social distancing. Source: CDC

Those of you who have followed me for a long time or have read a copy of my book know that I’m a huge fan of scarves. In these dress-down days, they throw a little personality and color into the casual world. They also make great travel gear as you can use them for everything from staying warm to an impromptu picnic blanket.

These days they may become even more useful. The shemagh, or keffiyeh, worn below was brought back for me from Bahrain by my brother-in-law after a tour there during the last war. I was reminded of it when Mrs. E., my mom and I took the children to Israel and Jordan last summer. They are the traditional Bedouin head-covering and were much in evidence. Unfortunately, outside of the Middle East, or at least here in Central Virginia, they can arouse suspicion when worn covering the mouth and nose. I just shook up my neighbor when I looked over the back fence.

The concept is a good one though, so if you’re going to take a step past the bandana, remember that a lightweight scarf is a welcome addition to the world.

Here’s a nice looking one from The Rake’s Values line. As a neighbor shouted to me the other day, stay safe, sanitized and sane. And remember to have a little fun.