shawl

A shawl is a rectangular or square piece of fabric worn around the shoulders, neck, or head. Larger than a scarf, it is typically draped over the shoulders or wrapped and can be fastened with a pin. Shawls are used for warmth, modesty, and decoration.

Shawls are made from a wide range of fibers, including wool, cashmere, pashmina, silk, cotton, and synthetic blends. They may be woven or knitted, and most feature fringed or knotted ends. Patterns span solid colors, stripes, plaids, and intricate motifs, with embroidery or jacquard designs common in decorative varieties.

The shawl appears in many cultures across Eurasia. The Kashmir pashmina shawl, woven from fine cashmere, gained European fame in the 18th and 19th centuries as a luxury accessory. Techniques and motifs from Persian, Indian, and Central Asian traditions influenced many regional styles.

Regional variants include Indian and Pakistani pashmina wraps, Chinese silk shawls, and European wool shawls. In some South Asian and Central Asian cultures, shawls are worn for ceremonial or religious occasions, while in Western fashion they are commonly used as a versatile outdoor wrap.

Care varies by fiber. Wool and cashmere shawls are usually hand-washed or dry-cleaned; silk shawls require delicate handling; cotton shawls are often machine washable. Drying flat helps prevent distortion; storing folded and away from direct sunlight helps preserve color.