A woman in an ivory abaya wearing a dusty rose embroidered shawl wrapped like a cape

Five ways to wear a shawl

A shawl is one of the most versatile pieces you can own. The same length of cloth can be relaxed or formal, practical or dramatic, depending on how you wear it. Here are five of our favourite ways, for women and men.

1. The classic drape

Simply lay the shawl across your shoulders and let both ends fall evenly at the front. It is effortless and elegant, perfect over a dress or a simple knit. For a little more structure, secure it with a discreet brooch or shawl pin at one shoulder.

2. The over-the-shoulder throw

Drape the shawl around your neck with one end longer than the other, then throw the longer end back over the opposite shoulder. This keeps it in place as you move and adds a relaxed, confident line. It works beautifully with a coat on cold days.

3. The wrap

Open the shawl fully and wrap it around your shoulders like a light cape, crossing the ends at the front. In cooler months, a full shawl worn this way can replace a jacket entirely, especially for evenings and travel.

The same length of cloth, worn five different ways.

4. The Parisian knot

Best with a scarf or stole. Fold it in half lengthways, place it around your neck, then pull both loose ends through the loop. Adjust until it sits comfortably. Neat, warm and ideal under a tailored coat, for men and women alike.

5. The traditional way

In Kashmir and across much of India, men have long worn a large shawl draped across one shoulder and wrapped loosely around the body, or folded and laid over the shoulders atop a kurta. It is a look of quiet dignity, and it works just as well over contemporary tailoring.

A few styling notes

  • Let the shawl be the focus. Pair patterned pieces with simple clothing.
  • Match weight to the season. Lighter stoles for spring evenings, fuller shawls for winter.
  • Choose tones that flatter your skin near the face, and experiment with the rest.
  • Avoid rough bags and jewellery that could catch fine threads.

However you wear it, a well-made shawl should feel natural, never fussy. Wear it often. That is what it is for.

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