Silk and a Century of Style: Liberty Celebrates Its Iconic Scarf in a New Book

The Liberty scarf has been a pillar in the brand’s reputation for luxury and elegance for the past 150 years. Launched in the early 1900s, the silk scarves were printed in-house, eventually evolving into a timeless emblem of effortless sophistication. 

Such a symbol deserves a captivating tribute. Titled The Liberty Scarf, enthusiastic collector of vintage headscarves, and author, Paul Rennie, is sharing the story. Celebrating its rich heritage and exquisite artistry, Liberty are working with Thames & Hudson to explore the history, artistry and craftsmanship behind the iconic Liberty scarf.

The future coffee table staple includes over 200 illustrations of the distinctive, intricate prints epitomising the transition of the scarf in British women’s lives, from a rigid marker of social class to a versatile staple of both utility and high fashion. 

At the heart of the book is the Liberty Archive, holding 150 years of fashion, fabrics and print history. Its contents range from delicate swatches to print books and solid silk colours. The Liberty design team works closely with the company’s archivists to unearth the treasures that inspire new designs, a living dialogue between past and present.

The book draws on this resource to show the beauty and precision behind each scarf. Readers can expect everything from nature-inspired classics and heritage motifs to bold abstract designs reflecting post-war and contemporary influences, a visual tour through changing tastes and ideas.

The Liberty Scarf was published on 22 October 2026 as a hardback, priced at £50. It is a fitting gift for anyone with a passion for textiles, fashion history or British design, and a handsome addition to your own collection, if you can bear to give it away.