Shawls are large fabric wraps that can cover the neck, shoulders, and head. They come in various shapes, colors, and patterns, and have been popular throughout history. The word “shawl” comes from the Persian shawl, and Asian shawls are known for their beauty and quality. They provide warmth and insulation and can be a fashion statement. They are available in many stores, including traditional Asian shawls. When selecting a shawl, it’s important to test the weave and consider the color and length.
A shawl is a large swath of fabric that is designed to wrap loosely around the neck, shoulders, and upper body. Many shawls are also large enough to cover the head, if the wearer wishes. Many cultures have a tradition of producing shawls, ranging from the serape of Latin America to the famous pashminas of Kashmir. The fashion for shawls waxes and wanes, but they are almost always available in department stores and clothing stores, and are commonly seen on older women with a more traditional fashion sense.
The English word “shawl” comes from the Persian shawl, the result of the popularity of imported Middle Eastern and Asian shawls in Europe. The Persians themselves borrowed the word from the Sanskrit sati, which simply means “cloth.” English speakers have been using the term “shawl” since the 17th century, though such wraps certainly existed before.
Shawls come in a wide variety of shapes. Rectangles and squares are common, and many wearers fold their shawls into triangular shapes. It is also possible to find triangular and oblong shawls, or shawls with more unusual shapes. They can be fringed, trimmed, or plain, and come in a rainbow of colors and with a variety of patterns.
Asian shawls are perhaps the most famous for their beauty and quality. Lightweight woolen shawls, delicate silk shawls, and stronger woolen shawls took Europe by storm when importers began bringing them in, replacing fibers like cotton and linen. The best shawls were said to be made of materials so delicate and flexible that the shawl could be pulled through a wedding ring without snagging.
From a purely practical point of view, a shawl provides excellent warmth and insulation, and can also be a fashion statement. Historically, many women wore shawls over evening gowns while moving from home to the ball, using the shawls to keep warm en route, then discarding them at the final destination. Elegant and elegant shawls were also mandatory for walks in the fresh air.
Many stores sell shawls today, including traditional Asian shawls that have been made in the same way for centuries. When selecting a shawl, you don’t need to draw it through your wedding band, but it’s a good idea to test the weave of the fabric to make sure it’s strong. You may also want to think about how the color or pattern will coordinate with your wardrobe, color, and eyes, and shorter shoppers can try shawls to ensure they don’t drag on the floor.
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