Differences Between A Shawl, Stole, And A Scarf

There seems to be a fair amount of confusion about these terms and no wonder as they are frequently used interchangeably. For those who want to be fashion term savvy, here is the scoop:

All four terms represent finished pieces of fabric that are worn as a fashion accessory, either as a decorative element or as a wardrobe essential, or both at once. They can be made from natural fibres such as silk, cashmere, wool, cotton, and linen, or man-made fibres such as acrylic and polyester. They can be square, triangle, or oblong shaped. Often for decorative purposes, natural and man-made fibres are used in the same scarf; for example, a metallic gold (man-made fibre) thread may be used to embroider a wool (natural fibre) scarf.

• A SHAWL

The term refers to a larger piece of fabric, usually rectangular, but sometimes triangular or square that can be wrapped around the body. Scarves and shawls are worn by men and women.

A shawl can be purely decorative, used to accent an outfit, or functional, as in a woollen shawl to keep you warm. A shawl can have a specific purpose as in a prayer or liturgical stole. They are also used to cover bare shoulders in formal attire, being decorative and practical at once. Shawls are also made from very light, thin fabric like silk chiffon to add a finishing touch to an outfit, Shawls are a highly versatile and practical addition to anyone's wardrobe.

• A STOLE

Is very similar to a shawl, usually rectangular. The term probably derives from the ancient Roman Damee, which is the woman's version of the men's toga. The term stole today is usually used to describe a formal or evening shawl, made of elegant fabric, often not as wide as a shawl, but long enough to drape around the body. Stoles usually are not fringed. The word stole is also used to describe a wide decorative sash that is draped over the shoulders as in a graduation stole or a liturgical stole. A sheer silk evening stole adds elegance to a formal outfit.

• A SCARF

Can be thin, long, and rectangular: think of a typical winter wool scarf that you wrap around your neck. It can also be square: think of a lady’s classic silk scarf or foulard. In other words, the term is usually used to describe a fabric item that can be wrapped or tied around your neck for warmth and or style. Scarves can be casual or formal and everywhere in-between. Confusion of course reigns as many people call an evening shawl an evening scarf, or a wool shawl a wool scarf.

Hopefully, you now know the names of the different types of scarves and know the difference between the various terms, shawl, stole, and scarf, and have some new ideas of how you might wear them.