When it comes to fashion, the shawl wrap material in which a garment is made can make a huge difference in its quality and overall appearance.

Cheap fabrics may look ok when new on the shelf, but you will find that they quickly become faded, worn, and tattered, sometimes even after one wash! When you go to purchase a shawl wrap, make sure to pick a high quality material. You will want to wear this piece often and it will probably be exposed to the elements directly, so you will save money in the long run purchasing one of quality in the beginning.

What Materials are High Quality?

High quality fabrics often carry a high price tag, but not always. Also remember the quality of a material does not necessarily increase in proportion to the price tag. Many shawl wraps are more pricey due to the brand name attached to them rather than the actual material in which they are made or the quality of the workmanship.

Following is a list of some of the most common high-end fabrics along with their pros and cons:

Silk: 100% natural or “wild” silk is made from fibers produced by insects, mainly caterpillar and most commonly the silkworm, while they are in a stage of metamorphosis to become a moth. These fibers are harvested, processed, and woven to produce the textile. Some varieties are more rough while others are extremely slick and smooth. The material is light weight and “breathes” well making it an appropriate selection for a shawl wrap intended for multiple seasons. Silk is also relatively delicate and tends to hold stains. It typically cannot be laundered by machine. There are also artificial silks that are less costly and less offensive to animal rights activists.

Wool: Wool is created from materials that grow from the follicles of certain mammals. Most commonly, people think of w ool derived from sheep, but it can also come from other animals including goats, llamas, and alpacas. Wool is a very thick and durable fabric making it a great choice if you are looking for maximum warmth in your shawl wrap. The price and quality of wool vary greatly depending on the animal in which the wool was made and the coarseness of that wool. Wool does not allow air to transfer through it making it extremely warm in cold weather, but also inappropriate in hotter months as your body heat cannot escape. It also absorbs moisture readily, up to three times its original weight, and will easily absorb sweat and precipitation.

Cashmere and Pashmina: Cashmere and pashmina are actually very fine types of wool. They are derived from the fur of certain ghosts, particularly ones found in the Himalayas and other far eastern countries. These animals grow a special coat every winter to protect them from the harsh elements, and each spring this super soft fur is sheered to make cashmere and pashmina. A shawl wrap made of these materials is very light weight and always add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe. Typically it must be dry cleaned. Occasionally if it is made of a thicker yarn, you will be able to hand wash it, but it is never a good idea to wash it in a machine or put it in a dryer.

Shawls and scarves are fashion accessories that can take a look from dull and expected to this season’s trendiest look.

Even last year’s clothing can be revitalized into today’s hottest style. A little luxury can convert a “plain Jane” article of clothing into an enviable fashion statement.

What is more luxurious than a pashmina shawl? In today’s economy women want to save money and still achieve a polished and fashionable look. By taking a classic blouse and skirt you have loved for years, and adding a pashmina shawl you can feel like you are wearing an entirely new outfit. Worn at the neck, or around the shoulders the color and soft texture feel expensive. Try draping one and securing at the waist with a belt. Along with shawls and scarves, emphasis on the waistline is new again.

If your sweater doesn’t have a designer label, a shawl made of pashmina can add that bit of upscale quality to your look that people will notice. Why is pashmina fabric considered a high-end fabric? Because it will deliver softness, drape ability, and warmth all from a lightweight natural fiber fabric.

Pashmina’s qualities lend the fabric well to accepting a myriad of colors and also to being woven with silk to produce a lovely sheen. With all this variety this fashion accessory is the perfect touch to express your personal style. Whether you are a bohemian spirit or prefer a tailored classic style, the pashmina shawl can help you make your style a personal reflection of the real you or show a bit of the secret you.

Weekend or boardroom the shawl is appropriate. Day or evening you will reach for you this clothing item again and again, finding new ways to wear it. Recycling is very in vogue now. Why not recycle your wardrobe; save money and still have the hot look that is no now. Add the pashmina shawl to your wardrobe and look like a million bucks without spending it.