A wrap is a practical and fashionable addition to your ensemble.
Shawls and wraps are some of the most stunning and versatile accessories. However, they are often overlooked in favour of more common outerwear staples such as coats and cardigans.
Shawls have been around for centuries. They are described as larger pieces of fabric, generally draped over the shoulders, neck or wrapped around the body.
Shawls are designed in various shapes from rectangles, triangles to squares.
They can be worn for decorative purposes, to accent an outfit such as a saree or to cover bare shoulders. They can also be worn for religious purposes or simply to keep warm.
In the past shawls were worn during the winter season and were made from pure wool. They mostly come in 80-110 cm wide to 180 cm – 210 cm long.
However, wraps are a more recent phenomenon. It is an interchangeable word that can be used to describe both shawls and stoles.
It is any loose outer garment or piece of material that can be wrapped around the upper body. They are easy styles that can be worn with various ensembles.
DESIblitz explores 15 of the best shawls and wraps to warm up your style which is great for both men and women to adorn.
Scarf
Scarves are somewhat of a recent phenomenon and are extremely functional. They can be worn as a thick, chunky scarf around the neck or draped over the shoulders like a shawl.
They are available in various colours, prints and cuts to suit everyone’s style.
Team it with jeans, a tee and a hoodie, or even wrapped it around a dress. Scarves can certainly amp up any outfit you choose to wear.
Embossed Shawl
This type of shawl is perfect for evening functions or to dress up a plain outfit. The knit-look makes it perfect to create a cosy look.
For added glamour, the inclusion of Swarovski crystals and faux fur add an element of glam and sparkle to the shawl. Wear them with a nice dress or black trousers and a funky top.
Wedding Option
Weddings are grand affairs which are highly regarded in the South Asian community. An important aspect of Desi weddings is the outfits.
Unfortunately, sometimes the weather is not always on your side on the day of the wedding. Rather than suffering in the cold, a wrap is a practical and fashionable addition to your ensemble.
A wrap is very versatile and can be worn in a number of ways. It’s warm, functional and stylish all at the same time.
Modern Wrap
This is perfect for those not so chilly afternoons and evenings. It can be worn instead of a coat or a cardigan.
The effortless drape enhances the sartorial appeal of your ensemble. Alternatively, you can add a brooch to tie the two sides together mimicking a cardigan.
Wear with a thick scarf and boots and you’re good to go. Or, you can team with it salwar kameez or a saree.
Velvet Shawl
This shawl is the perfect addition for those cold evenings. The velvet adds an additional layer of warmth.
It also makes a massive style statement, instead of wearing a regular shawl made of cashmere or wool.
The shawl also has a lot of intricate embellishments and a touch of embroidery for a glamorous finish.
They look incredible teamed with ethnic outfits like salwar kameez and sarees as they provide a regal touch to the overall ensemble while adding dimension.
Kashmiri Shawl
This shawl is typically made out of fine wool and commonly embroidered with paisleys. This is the perfect addition for an ethnic outfit or to give your western outfit an ethnic touch.
The majestic embroidery heightens the beauty of this type of accessory. It will certainly add colour to a dull outfit.
Kashmiri shawls are renowned for their softness, hence, they have been favoured by nobility since antiquity.
Jamavar Shawl
These type of shawls can be described as elegant, luxurious, sophisticated and classy. They are made from brocaded fabric and the floral motif is very common.
The floral motif can be found scattered across the shawl or at the hem. Each promise a different look.
They can take decades to make and are a somewhat special type of shawl. Jamiavar shawls also have heavy embroidery and are often used for wedding purposes.
Dorukha Shawl
Dorukha means ‘double-sided’, hence, these type of shawls are reversible, even though the colours may vary on either side.
You can see a multicoloured pattern when these shawls are brought under the light which looks stunning.
The challenge with designing these shawls is to produce the same design on both sides. If you love the concept of two tones then this look is perfect for you.
Shahtoosh Shawl
Shahtoosh means ‘King of fine wools,’ which is what this shawl is. These type of shawls are known for their fine weave and are on the costlier side.
However, do not let the price tag put you off. Rather consider it a way of treating yourself. A little self-indulgence is required from time to time.
Net and floral prints are both common for these shawls. They are a luxurious addition to any wardrobe.
Orenburg Chic
These shawls are the classic symbol of Russian handicrafts. They are woven from the finest wool and are extremely delicate.
This type of finely knit shawls originated in the Orenburg area about 250 years ago in the 18th century.
The attention to detail is certainly immaculate and praiseworthy. If you love this type of outwear then an Orenburg style shawl is a must-have.
Silk Shawl
Silk shawls gained popularity during the 19th century in China and are worn extensively across the globe.
They are made from raw silk which allows for the perfect smooth texture and luxurious feel. They are also perfect to glam up any outfit for an evening function.
The beauty of this item is that it can be found in various colours and prints and are favoured by many people.
If you have not previously donned this item of clothing then the silk option would be great to get you into the trend.
Cape
Capes are thought to have originated in 1066. They were worn to show rank or job role. They are a funky way of covering up instead of a coat.
Whether you opt for a more structured cape or one that drapes effortlessly down your torso, you will be guaranteed a striking outfit.
Team with faux leather leggings, heels and an oversized tee for a great outfit combination that you will want to wear time and again.
Kani
Kani shawls originate from the Kanihama area of Kashmir. Kani weaving is one of the oldest and most endearing handicrafts of Kashmir.
This is something that has been part of the region since the Mughal Empire.
The shawls are woven from pashmina yarn which gives it its unique texture and look.
Two-tone Pashmina
Pashminas are made entirely with fibres from Kashmiri mountain goats. They can come in an array of designs and patterns from stripes to checks but also in plain shades.
Some are hand-dyed in two colours while others are decorated with lace.
Pashminas are very versatile. Ideal for adding an extra layer in cooler weather or creating an additional or contrast colour for just about any outfit.
The Stole
A stole is a woman’s long scarf or shawl. It is made of fur or a similar material. It is worn loosely over the shoulders and the perfect addition for an evening outfit.
A stole is typically narrower than a shawl and of simpler construction than a cape. It has been said that the term ‘stole’ is related to the ancient Roman stola (the woman’s version of the toga).
Generally stoles are between 50-70 cm wide to 175cm -190cm long.
Be sure to update your outerwear style by experimenting with some of these top 15 shawl and wrap designs.
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