There’s no doubt about it, shawls are a woman’s best friend and are one of the basic items that should be a part of your wardrobe essentials.
What is a shawl:
Essentially, a shawl is a large oblong or square piece of fabric that is finished on all 4 sides. It needs to be large enough to wrap around your body.
Women's shawls are also referred to as wraps, dress wraps, stoles and sometimes pashminas.
A quick note on pashminas: pashmina is a type of very expensive luxury cashmere fabric woven from the underbelly fur of a Himalayan goat. This fabric is often made into the shape of a shawl, but the term pashmina today has come to include any kind of shawl, including inexpensive synthetics. Confusing, but now you know the correct meaning of the term!
Just like scarves, women's shawls can be worn in many different ways, and can instantly change the look of an outfit.
Three essential types of shawls
We think that are three types of shawls every woman should own in her wardrobe.
- A lightweight patterned silk shawl
- A solid color shawl
- A lightweight wool shawl
Of course, a woman can own more than three, but these three types are the building blocks of a complete wardrobe.
Patterned women's silk shawls:
A lightweight patterned silk shawl is the perfect addition to your wardrobe. They can be sheer as in silk chiffon or Georgette, or semi sheer as in charmeuse or lightweight satin. They are a terrific investment as they can be worn year round and change the look of your outfits.
Because these types of silk are gossamer light, they can be worn wrapped around the shoulders (as a wrap), styled as a large scarf, or even used as a mantle or sash around your waist. Elizabetta silk shawls are available in a variety of colors and patterns, so there is sure to be one to compliment your wardrobe. They are perfect for dressing up an outfit for a night out or adding a pop of color to a casual daytime look.
Solid color shawls:
Solid color shawls are another wardrobe essential. As with the patterned silk shawls, they can be worn in a variety of different ways to create different looks. A solid color shawl can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion. These can be worn over patterned dresses or outfits.
They can also be used to create a color block look, contrasting colors in your outfit to create a unique and fashionable look. A solid color shawladds an instant touch of elegance to any outfit.
Wool Shawls:
We often think of wool as being heavy and bulky. At Elizabetta we are particularly fond of lightweight wool or wool blend women's shawls for the cooler months are they are super soft and lightweight, allowing you to to wear them indoors to give a pop of color to your outfit, or outdoors as an added layer against the chill.
A lightweight wool shawl can be worn as a scarf or wrap, and they add an extra layer of warmth. The patterns add a beautiful touch of color to your cool weather wardrobe. Function and fashion in one piece.
We think that every woman should have all three types of shawls in her wardrobe. They are versatile, stylish, and essential for any season. With so many different ways to wear them, you'll never run out of new looks to try.
Which of these three types of women's shawls is your favorite?
