shouldercovering

Shoulder covering refers to garments or coverings intended to cover the shoulders. Common forms include shawls, scarves, capes, boleros, shrugs, cardigans, wraps, and jackets. Across different contexts, shoulder coverings serve practical purposes such as warmth and sun protection, as well as symbolic roles related to modesty, religious observance, or social convention.

Cultural and religious contexts: In many cultures, shoulders are treated as part of modest dress; for example in some Muslim, Hindu, Christian, and Jewish communities, rules about uncovered skin may influence whether shoulders are covered in daily wear or during religious services. In Western fashion, shoulders have been alternately covered and exposed depending on era, with strapless or off-the-shoulder styles gaining popularity in the 20th and 21st centuries. Traditional garments such as the Indian choli or the Chinese cheongsam have designs that expose or cover shoulders as appropriate; in ceremonial dress, such as liturgical vestments, shoulders may be covered with stoles or other textiles.

Types and materials: Shoulder coverings vary widely—shawls and wraps in wool or pashmina for warmth; cotton shawls for everyday modesty; lace or sheer fabrics for decorative purposes. Functionally, a shoulder covering can be removable or integrated into a garment (a cardigan or bolero). Dress codes often specify whether shoulders must be covered in schools, workplaces, or religious venues; violations may require a cover or result in dress-code enforcement.