It’s a classic. A length of fabric of varying size that can serve almost any purpose: placed around the shoulders or neck for warmth; displayed prominently or used as an accessory, a wrap, a headdress, a carrier, a blanket, a sarong. A rectangle of cloth with unlimited potential.

Some, from the famous looms of Bengal, are so light and diaphanous that the Romans called them “woven air.” Others, from the foothills of the Himalayas are of soft warm wools, a pleasure against the skin, woven with uncommon skill. The weavers we know are keen when they cut one from the loom, at times they are beside themselves with pride over the cleverness of a new technique. A shawl is much more than a cloth – it is an idea that may be draped over the body.

Traditionally worn by both men and women in cultures from South America to Asia, the shawl (and how it is worn) has long been an expression of taste, style and personality. Each one has a story.