Attire of Qashqai Nomadic Women 1
The traditional attire of Qashqai nomadic women is designed to accommodate their semi-nomadic lifestyle, ensure safety, and adhere to cultural modesty. Key components of this ensemble include:
Charqad:
“Charqad” (Headscarf) The charqad, or lachak, is a delicately fashioned headscarf. Its unique cut and style are crafted entirely by the women themselves, a testament to their skill. The charqad is triangular in shape, with a curved edge that sits just above the forehead, providing both shade and protection for the hairline. The edges are often adorned with simple or intricate embroidery, sometimes featuring beads or sequins.
The choice of a lightweight fabric for the charqad is deliberate. Given the cultural requirement to cover the ears, a thick fabric could impede hearing. Additionally, the women’s long, thick hair would become sweaty and odorous under a heavy fabric. The charqad is secured beneath the chin with a pin; a thick fabric would make this difficult. Finally, for nomadic people who travel extensively, a lightweight headscarf is far more practical.
To ensure complete modesty, a small cap is worn under the charqad. The front of the head is covered with a separate cloth, while the back and sides are secured by the folds of the charqad and the additional cloth.
A distinct advantage of the charqad over a traditional headscarf is its two long, free ends that drape over the chest, providing additional coverage.
The two ends of a charqad are fastened together under the chin using a pin. The pin’s material varies depending on the wearer’s financial status; it could be a gold pin adorned with jewels or a simple pin with small beads, agate, or other stones.
Older women typically wear black or brown charqads, while younger women prefer a variety of colors, including white. The fabric used for charqads is often a fine mesh, like white muslin or other delicate nets.
Young women often embellish their charqads with sequins, especially brides, whose charqads are intricately decorated with beading and sequins. These ornamental charqads are worn for weddings and special occasions, while simpler ones are worn daily to prevent the sequins from falling off during movement.
This information is taken directly from the book Siyəh Çadorha – Mənuçehr Kiyani
کتاب سیاه چادرها از دکتر منوچهر کیانی (in persian)
