Few accessories are as versatile, timeless, and universally adored as the silk shawl. Thanks to its luxurious fabric and inherent beauty, this style classic has been a favorite of designers and fashionistas for as long as we can remember. But what is it about them that makes them such an essential staple in your wardrobe? Read on to discover exactly why you need to invest in a silk shawl this year!
1. Enduring charm
Whether you’re attending a formal event or a casual soirée, the addition of a silk shawl can’t fail to add charm and grace to your outfit – as well as a touch of timelessness. This is one accessory that transcends fashion trends and fads; it ensures you exude sophistication no matter the occasion.
Part of its inherent charm results from the way it alludes to some of the great style icons of the past. Over the decades, silk shawls have graced the shoulders of idols ranging from Sophia Loren to Marilyn Monroe – there’s even an artwork dedicated to her wearing one!
2. Silk’s natural sheen and movement
The silk shawl owes much of its intrinsic style and grace to the properties of the material itself. Its fluid, flowing nature endows it with an inherently graceful quality that you’d be hard-pressed to find in any other fabric. As a garment, this means it moves elegantly and in tune with the body, creating an almost ethereal effect. Added to this is its natural sheen that catches the light, which results in a material that is the epitome of luxury and sophistication.
3. The perfect balance between luxury and simplicity
Despite its associations with luxury, there’s nothing ostentatious about a silk shawl. In fact, the opposite is true: This accessory manages to achieve the impossible by finding the sweet spot between luxury and simplicity. Elevating any outfit, from jeans and a sweater to a ball gown, it draws attention and stands out, without ever being brash or overpowering. Just take a look at this collection of Italian shawls to see what we mean: https://elizabetta.net/collections/italian-shawls-evening-wraps-silk-formal-shawls
4. They’re perfect for layering – whatever the weather
Silk is not just pretty, soft and luxurious – it’s also a remarkably clever fabric. Did you know it is even being studied in the field of bio-medical engineering because of its unique – and remarkable – thermal properties? In terms of our outfits, this means the addition of a silk shawl brings warmth in the cooler months, and much more than their lightweight, delicate appearance might suggest. What’s more, in the summer, silk works to keep us cool, by wicking away moisture from the skin. This helps to keep us dry and fresh, even in the heat of summer.
In addition, as a silk shawl is lightweight, it can easily be folded and tucked away in a bag if you need to remove it during the day. Equally, it’s less bulky than a cardigan or sweater, which means it’s the ideal “extra layer” to have on hand in case the temperature drops.
5. A silk shawl is the perfect hair accessory
You’re probably aware of the bohemian charm that wearing a silk shawl as a hair wrap brings, but did you know it also provides your hair and scalp with several unique benefits? Once more, silk’s unique natural properties come to the rescue, this time regulating the temperature of your scalp. This helps prevent the dryness that might arise by wearing a standard hat and prevents grease build-up. In turn, this keeps your hair cleaner and fresher for longer. Furthermore, since silk is naturally soft, there is far less friction between your hair and the scarf, preventing damage. This is particularly important if you use hair dyes or other products, which may make it more prone to breakages.
If you enjoy styling your hair and want to make sure it stays just as you intended when you step out into the elements, a silk shawl is just the thing. It preserves your hairstyle and protects it from the wind, rain, and humidity, allowing you to arrive at your destination without a hair out of place!
So, there we have it. The silk shawl is much more than a simple accessory. It’s a nod to the past, a clever extra layer, and a hairstyle protector – among many other things! Above all, though, it’s a surefire way to bring the perfect blend of style and grace to your look – and that is always a good thing!
