Stoles and shawls are often confused, but stoles are worn to show off fabric while shawls are for warmth. Stoles are rectangular and made of lighter fabrics, while shawls are triangular and made of heavier materials like cashmere or pashmina wool. Both have historical and modern uses.
While in the fashion world, the stole is often confused with the shawl, there are differences between the two. Although each can be worn as an accessory to a party dress or gown, stoles are commonly worn to cover the shoulders. Shawls, however, are usually specifically designed as a means of warmth, as well as complementing an outfit.
Instead of warmth, a stole is often worn to show off a particular fabric, such as satin, or fur, such as white mink. The main difference between stoles and shawls lies in the size and material. Stoles are generally rectangular and vary between 2-4 feet wide (61-122 cm) and 5-6 feet long (152-183 cm). The shawls are generally triangular and larger in size: approximately 3 feet wide (91 cm) and 7 feet long (213 cm). They are also built with heavier material.
Stole material typically includes lighter weight fabrics such as chiffon, silk, and satin; or leather, which is lined with one of the lightest fabrics. Shawls can also be seen in silk fabrics, but are often woven or woven from cashmere or pashmina wool. Both fashion accessories are available in various sizes, styles, patterns, and colors. Stoles and shawls share similar uses throughout history, but in different ways.
Stoles were originally worn as a scarf that hung down the front, often for religious purposes. These were typically dyed or embroidered to denote a particular event, such as the ordination of a priest. Before adding glamor to clothing, fur stoles were actually worn to ward off fleas and lice, attracting them to the skin rather than the hair or body. Like stoles, shawls also served as a protective device, albeit for the purpose of keeping the body warm. Additionally, these could also be seen at religious ceremonies, such as traditional Jewish funerals and weddings.
There are additional uses for stoles and shawls today. For example, a stole may be used to indicate graduate honors or academic achievements. Crochet shawls are popular hobbies for many people, especially those who want to help others. Also known as prayer shawls, these gifts are woven by caring individuals and then passed on to others to help ease their suffering with prayers and blessings.
While there are many similarities between stoles and shawls, there are also many differences. Learning to decipher between the two is not difficult; just remember that stoles look like scarves, only bigger. Shawls look like triangles most of the time.
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