The Eri Silk Scarf: A Little Piece of Handloom You Can Wear Every Day

When I first started sourcing Eri silk, sarees were what I had in mind. I wanted to work with the weavers in Assam and bring their handwoven textiles to more people.

Scarves weren't really part of the original plan.

In fact, I wasn't sure how people would respond to an Eri silk scarf. Would they wear it? Would they understand the fabric? Would there be enough interest in something so different from the usual silk scarves?

But over time, our scarves became some of Arras's most-loved pieces. We started receiving repeat orders, and I realised that sometimes the products you don't plan too much around end up surprising you.

What makes an Eri silk scarf different?

Eri silk has a character of its own.

Unlike the glossy, smooth finish people often associate with silk, Eri has a more matte appearance and a naturally textured feel. It is soft, comfortable and breathable, making it lovely to wear across different seasons.

It is also known as Ahimsa or peace silk because the silkworm is allowed to emerge from its cocoon before the silk is collected.

The yarn comes from a traditional process rooted in Assam, where Eri has been woven for generations.

When you wear an Eri silk scarf, you're wearing something that has a very different story from a mass-produced accessory.

A scarf you can wear in more ways than one

One of the things I like about scarves is how easily they fit into everyday dressing.

You don't need a special occasion to wear one.

You can drape it around your neck on a cooler day, throw it over your shoulders, or use it to add a little colour and texture to a simple outfit.

Wear it with a plain shirt, a dress, a coat or even a traditional outfit.

A scarf doesn't need much styling to make a difference.

And unlike a saree, which you might save for a particular occasion, a scarf can become something you reach for quite often.

A thoughtful gift, too

Scarves have also become one of our favourite gifting options.

They are personal without being difficult to choose. They are useful, easy to wear and don't need someone to have a particular occasion or wardrobe for them.

We've also had special orders for Eri silk scarves in gift boxes for corporate gifting.

I think there is something lovely about gifting a piece of handwoven textile. It is useful, but it also carries a little story about the people and craft behind it.

Made by hand, not in a hurry

Every Eri silk scarf begins long before it reaches our collection.

The silk comes from Assam, where the yarn is prepared and woven by skilled artisans. The process involves several stages, from rearing the silkworms and collecting the cocoons to spinning the yarn, preparing the loom and weaving the fabric.

It takes time.

And because the fabric is handwoven, each piece has its own character.

There may be subtle variations in texture and weave. These are part of the nature of handmade textiles, not something we try to make disappear.

For us, the point has never been to make something that looks exactly like everything else.

It's to work with a traditional craft and bring it into pieces people can enjoy wearing today.

A little something to look forward to

We're currently getting a new batch of Eri silk scarves ready.

There is always a bit of work involved before a new collection is ready to be seen. The scarves need to be checked, photographed and prepared for the website.

We're looking forward to sharing them with you soon.

And if you haven't tried Eri silk before, perhaps a scarf is a lovely place to start.

Sometimes, a little piece of handloom is all you need.