Winter is the perfect time to indulge in Indian shawls! Discover expert styling tips, care guides, and the latest fashion trends to elevate your wardrobe with luxurious Pashminas, vibrant Kanis, and earthy Kutch shawls. Take your winter wardrobe to the next level with our curated collection of handcrafted shawls by Exotic India Art.
With the winter air wrapping us in a cold and chilly ambiance, it is time to bring out our best and warmest winter wear. Among the many pieces that are trusted by fashionistas and customers around the globe for their effortless and regal look are Indian shawls. A staple in Indian homes, woolen and silk shawls have been embraced by the world as heritage wear from Asia, symbolizing the blend of fashion and heritage.
In this blog, we will give you some simple expert tips about how to style shawls and how to add woolen shawls to your winter outfits with minimal effort. So let us start.
The “soft gold” of India, Pashmina shawls are a symbol of Kashmir’s regal heritage and the skills of the artists who make wool and silk threads into blossoming gardens with their hands. The shawls are made from yarn taken from Pashmina goats and take several weeks to years to weave.
☛ You can drape a bold, solid-colored Pashmina shawl over your trench or long coat to create an effortlessly refined look.
☛ Embroidered Pashmina shawls can be styled with evening dresses and ball gowns to keep you warm while adding a luxurious statement to your ensemble.
Kani shawl gets its name from the wooden bobbin or kani used in passing threads on the loom to create patterns in the weaving process. The shawl looks like a tapestry and is one of the most exquisite clothing materials.
☛ Add Kani shawls to your plain, monochrome attires to quickly elevate the look with its vivid color palette.
☛ Fold a Kani shawl into a triangle and hang it on your back to use the shawl as a scarf, while adding a pop of colors to your look.
Jamawar, as the name suggests are shawls worn as jama or overall, wrapping the entire torso and most of the body. As these were the outer most layer in the outfit of kings and elites, the artisans weaved and embellished Jamawar shawls with some of the most stunningly detailed patterns. Pasiely, kalaga (the regal crown crest), Badam (almond), Chinar leaf and floral vines developed into ornate motifs in Jamawar weaving.
☛ Jamawar shawls are a sure shot head-turned for formal gatherings. Whether you are wearing a turtleneck, a fitted sweater with a jacket or an Angarakah or Bandagala, an Anarkali, or a plain salwar suit, style a Jamawar as the last layer and let the compliments come.
☛ You can also style a Jamawar shawl or the dupatta with your lehenga or saree to create a queenly look.
Geometric patterns, textured embroidery, mirrors, and natural colors are the features of Kutch shawls, a wrap from rural Gujarat that has earned global popularity. Inspired by the simple motifs of the communities of Kutch, these shawls have a contemporary appeal due to their minimal look and soothing colors.
☛ Add a Kutch shawl to flowy, maxi dresses to create that perfect winter boho look.
☛ Pair it with a woolen shirt or kurta to experience comfort and style.
Named after the region of Kullu, these shawls are a part of Himachal’s culture and traditions. They are inherited, bestowed, and exchanged as symbols of love and respect among the locals. Simple geometric patterns, bright colors, and a cozy drape make Kullu shawls stand out. Though overshadowed by the luxury of Pashmina, Kullu shawls are popular for their unparalleled warmth and the fact that they are durable and easy to maintain.
☛ You can wrap a Kullu shawl around your neck or shoulders with a fitted sweater and jeans for a comfy afternoon picnic.
☛ Pair a Kullu shawl with a long coat as an oversized scarf to make an effortless style statement.
For the not-so-cold winter days or the special occasions where you need to carry a royal vibe, silk shawls are the perfect choice. Made with pure or wool and cotton blend silk, these shawls are light as feather and have a subtle sheen that makes any look feel fashionably regal.
☛ Pair a printed silk shawl with a blouse and long skirt for a formal yet styling ensemble.
☛ Add a silk shawl to your cocktail looks to create an unforgettable fashion moment.
Besides the timeless tips shared above, there are some trending looks with Indian shawls that we thought you should know about.
☛ Use a belt to style your shawl with a long woolen dress for a tasteful and chic look.
☛ Carry a shawl with your coats and jackets as the last layer for chilly days, for a comfy yet fashionable feel.
☛ Style a vividly colored Kani shawl with a leather jacket to create a contrasting style statement of street and luxury fashion.
☛ Loosely knot your shawl on one shoulder to fix it on the attire while creating a stylish asymmetrical look.
☛ Tie your favorite shawl as a sarong or wrap-around skirt, pairing it with warm leggings to craft a look that will be a sure hit.
Even if you have the best shawls in your wardrobe, half the game is lost if you do not know the right way to wash and maintain these winter gems. Some of the easiest and most effective tips for cleaning, storing, and maintaining shawls are-
☛ Place the shawls in clean cotton bags to avoid any moisture, dust, or pollutants sticking to them.
☛ Always use dry cleaning for Pashmina, and go for professional cleaners only.
☛ Use lavender sachets, or cedar blocks to prevent moth damage. Do not put naphthalene balls with Pashmina or other wool shawls as it may damage the fabric.
☛ Take your shawls out in the open from time to time, to remove odor and keep them fresh.
☛ Always be mindful when wearing luxury shawls and keep them away from sharp objects- thorns, nails, pins, and jewelry as they might tug a thread and unravel the entire weave.
Indian shawls are no less than a makeover for your winter fashion. Handcrafted by the artisans that live in remote villages of India- from the valley of Kashmir to the Rann of Kutch, the makers of these shawls remain unnamed, while creating comfortable and luxurious winter wear, for the wardrobe of elites and connoisseurs. With the tips and trend updates listed here, we are sure you will make the most of these luxurious shawls and create looks that will turn heads.
Explore the online selection of Indian shawls from all over the country collected by Exotic India Art and pick your favorites to start creating your own treasure of these magical warm drapes.
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