How Not to Wear a Pashmina

Step 1

Look at the major colors in your pashmina shawl. Your goal is to use one or more of these colors as a complement in your outfit, but avoid looking overly matchy-matchy. Aim for interesting contrasts, such as a jewel tone against black or an earth tone against off-white, but avoid black disappearing into an all-black outfit.

Step 2

Subtract some accessories. Nothing kills the sophisticated effect of a pashmina shawl more than huge chandelier earrings or long strands of beads. Instead, add a funky bracelet or an interesting ring. You can channel Sarah Jessica Parker and pin a subtle brooch on the pashmina.

Step 3

Avoid the overly bulky folds. Pashminas look great belted low around the hips, tied French-style around the throat, wrapped like a shawl over the shoulders or worn in doubles intertwined. They do not look as elegant hanging loose over one shoulder, wrapped over the head, hanging below your coat or folded multiple times.

Step 4

Check for fabric compatibility. A pashmina shawl should dress up your look, but sometimes it can look too heavy. Don’t wear a thick wool pashmina over a chunky woolen sweater; it looks redundant.

Step 5

Take care of your pashmina shawl so that it always looks its best. Some pashminas are dry clean only, while others are washable. Wash it on a gentle cycle or hand-wash it in cold water. Use a gentle soap. Lightly squeeze out excess water, and let the pashmina dry in indirect sunlight.