It’s a Wrap

A shawl is one of the most versatile fashion items any woman can own. A shawl can protect you from a chill when you’re out for the evening. A shawl can provide a splash of color against a plain-colored top. A shawl can even serve as a top itself. The adaptability of the shawl is a major reason that it has remained a fashion staple year after year.

Some shawls are plain, but many are colorful works of art . Every fashion-savvy woman should have several in her wardrobe. Here are eight ways to wrap yourself in your favorite shawl – ranging from casual to glamorous.

As a Belted Top

Wrapped around a plain top or without one [if you’re brave] a shawl can be transformed into a top or even a short dress. Belt the shawl around your waist to hold the creation together. With skinny pants, this makes a cute evening look.

As a Shrug

Wrap the shawl tight around your shoulders and over your arms to create a faux shrug. This look can be worn with a summer dress to keep the chill from your arms. It’s also an attractive look with jeans and a scoop-neck top.

As an Accent Piece

When your outfit is otherwise monochromatic, a shawl can add a splash of color. Simply drape the shawl over your neck and let it hang loosely. This is a great casual look.

As a Knotted Top

If you have a lightweight shawl that can be tied, you can create a fashion-forward variation to the belted top look. Simply wrap the shawl around your torso and tie it high on your chest. This look can be dressed up or down as you choose.

As a Drape

To achieve this look, wrap the shawl around your shoulders and arms so that the full width is shown. Criss-cross the sections across your chest and pin them together in the back, once at the nape of your neck and again at the small of your back. This is another great look that can be dressed up or down while keeping you warm.

As an Evening Wrap

Of course, you can always wear a shawl as a classic evening wrap. Gently drape the shawl around your shoulders and over your arms, tucking the ends under your arms. This is a great look with a short cocktail dress or with a longer ball gown.

As a Cowl

A cowl is another look for a shawl that brings a splash of color to a monochromatic outfit. To achieve this look, wrap the shawl in an asymmetrical fashion around your neck. Allow the shawl to drape casually over one shoulder. This is a great look to wear with jeans.

As a Scarf

As a more casual variation of the evening wrap, simply drape the shawl over your shoulders, allowing the back to hang loosely and the sides to completely cover your arms. Wearing this look, you may be tempted to curl up on the couch with a good book.