Stoles and wraps are shawl accessories with differences in thickness, warmth, and material. Stoles are thinner and made of silk or chiffon, while wraps are wider and made of cotton or linen. Wraps can also be worn in different ways, including as a skirt or dress. Patterned wraps have become popular since the 1990s, while stoles are usually one color and made of more expensive fabric.
There are some clear differences between a stole and a wrap. Although they fit into the general category of shawl accessories, these similar garments look quite different from each other. They also perform slightly different functions. A stole is typically thinner and tighter than a wrap, while a wrap is typically warmer and wider than a stole.
Both stoles and wraps are meant to be paired with dresses, although the wrap is occasionally more casual. A stole is usually worn while wearing an elegant cocktail dress or ballroom gown. A wrap can also be worn with such dresses, although it is also seen with sundresses or church dresses.
Stoles and wraps are wrapped casually around the shoulders. A stole is usually worn just below the shoulders, while lightly wrapping around each bicep and trailing under the arms. However, a wrap is usually made with much more material than a stole. A woman wearing a wrap around her shoulders generally appears to be more casual and comfortable than someone who might be wearing a stole. A wrap can keep a woman warmer on a cool afternoon, while a stole probably won’t give off as much warmth.
Although not always, some wraps are sold as multi-purpose garments. A wrap can be wrapped around the waist like a skirt, or even over the breasts like a sheath dress. Like a towel, the wrap can be wrapped around the body and tucked inside itself for the perfect fit. It can also be secured with a button or zipper, just like a skirt.
Popular in many countries, patterned wraps have had a major impact on American clothing since the 1990s. Women have chosen to wear these wraps instead of a skirt, or as an added piece to their overall outfit. While wraps aren’t always patterned, patterned ones do add a nice pop of color to a drab outfit.
Stoles can also be patterned, although it is not as common. They are usually one color and made of a more expensive fabric than wraps. While wraps are made of cotton or linen, stoles are usually made of silk or chiffon. Because the fabric of a stole is so much lighter, stoles are often treated with much better care than wraps. Stoles can also be made from the fur of a fox or other animals, although they are not as common as they were in the mid to late 20th century.
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