Draft:Yaylıq (Traditional Turkic Headscarf)

• Comment: In addition to the llm output issue this looks like it might also just be the same as headscarf Moritoriko (talk) 03:31, 3 May 2025 (UTC)

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Yaylıq (also spelled Yaylık, Yaylılık, or Yayliq) is a traditional headscarf worn by Turkic women across a broad geographical region including Turkey, Iranian Azerbaijan, the Caucasus, and Armenia. While primarily a functional garment, the Yaylıq is also a symbol of cultural identity, modesty, and femininity. It has been used by both nomadic and settled populations for centuries and continues to hold cultural relevance in certain communities.

Yaylıq
Traditional Turkic women's headscarf
Name	Yaylıq
Type	Traditional headscarf / folk textile
Origin	Azerbaijan, Iran, Turkey, Caucasus
Used by	Shahsavan, Azerbaijani people, Anatolian Turks
Material	Silk, cotton, wool
Etymology	From Turkic yay (summer) + suffix -lıq
Functions	Modesty, protection, ceremonial use, identity marker
Techniques	Weaving, dyeing, block printing, crochet edging (oya)
Historical background	In use since antiquity
Current use	Folk costumes, cultural events, diaspora communities

Etymology

The term Yaylıq derives from the Turkic root yay (meaning "summer") and the suffix -lıq (denoting association), possibly referring to its breathable nature and use in warm seasons. Regional variants include:

• Kelaghayi (Azerbaijan)
• Chargat (Iranian Azerbaijan)
• Kyalagayi (Russian sources)
• Kalaghay (Armenian sources)

Historical Background

Yaylıq-style headscarves have been worn by Turkic peoples since ancient times. Among nomadic groups like the Shahsevan of Iran, they served practical functions—protecting the head and face from sun, wind, and dust—and were also part of ceremonial attire such as engagements and weddings.

During the Safavid and Qajar eras, finely decorated silk headscarves were produced using block printing and natural dyes. Cities such as Şəki (Azerbaijan), Yazd (Iran), and Bursa (Turkey) were known for producing high-quality textiles, including Yaylıqs.

Cultural Significance

Yaylıq holds ritualistic and symbolic value beyond its practical use:

• Modesty and religion: Associated with modesty in Islamic cultures.
• Ceremonial roles: Worn during weddings, mourning, and Nowruz, with specific colors and patterns holding meaning.
• Tribal identity: Among groups like the Shahsevan, Yaylıq colors and motifs indicate clan affiliation or marital status.

Design and Characteristics

Yaylıqs differ in form, fabric, and function across regions:

• Materials: Silk (formal occasions), cotton (daily wear), and wool (colder climates).
• Colors: Dark shades for mourning; bright hues for festivals and celebrations.
• Techniques: Includes batik, hand-painting, and block printing. In Azerbaijan, Kelaghayis are made using the basma technique.
• Embellishments: Edged with lace crochet (oya), tassels, or fringes, often handcrafted.

Regional Usage and Variants

Turkey

In Anatolian villages, Yaylıqs remain in use, particularly among older women and during folk festivals. The tradition of handmade oya lace is passed down through generations.

Azerbaijan

The Kelaghayi is a formal variant of Yaylıq, recognized by UNESCO in 2014 as intangible cultural heritage. It is typically made of silk, features floral or symbolic motifs, and is produced in cities like Şəki using traditional methods.

Iranian Azerbaijan

In regions like Ardabil, Tabriz, and Zanjan, Yaylıqs remain culturally relevant among Azerbaijani women and nomadic tribes. Distinct tribal styles are used in weddings and other ceremonies, often recognized as intangible heritage.

Caucasus

Similar headscarves appear across the Caucasus, including Georgia and Armenia, sometimes blending Turkic and Christian motifs. Museums in the region preserve examples of these garments.

Armenia

In historical Armenian regions, scarves known as Kalaghay were worn by rural women, especially in Syunik and around Lake Van. Some academic works from Yerevan State University document the cultural exchange between Armenian and Turkic textile traditions.

Contemporary Use

Though urban usage has declined, Yaylıqs are still worn during cultural events, folk performances, and in diaspora communities. Designers in Baku, Istanbul, and Tabriz have incorporated Yaylıq-inspired motifs into modern fashion.

Comparison with Kelaghayi

While sometimes used interchangeably, Kelaghayi specifically refers to the Azerbaijani silk headscarf recognized by UNESCO. Yaylıq is a broader term encompassing various styles, materials, and cultural contexts found across Turkic regions.

See Also

• Kelaghayi
• Hijab
• Chargat
• Turkic clothing

External Links

• UNESCO: Kelaghayi - Intangible Cultural Heritage
• Kelaghayi on Wikipedia
• Yerevan State University

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