Monday, November 10, 2008

Pashmina Shawls

Pashmina-making is a cottage industry craft for housewives to get additional income. These traditional shawls come from the Northern ares of Pakistan, as well as from Nepal. In the North, spun on 'inder', the spinning wheel, these are exquisitely embroidered with unique patterns.Colorful, classy and a must for any wardrobe.

Stoles, Wraps and Scarves

Pashmina is made as wraps, stoles and scarves. Added as fashion accessories, shawls can be worn on traditional Pakistani wear and with western dresses - adding charm and style to any outfit. These luxurious shawls provide warmth despite their light weight and sleek look. The colors range from all shades of red, yellow, green, blue, black and white.

In pure and in silk blends these are ideal for smart western outfits. In solid and rich colors, as well as pastel shades, these add elegance to any dress or suit.

Embroidered

Where there is Pashmina, the next thing that follows is Kashmiri embroidery - floral and paisley designs and on solid colors. Patterns also run along the borders. Hand made with intricate designs, these were considered the luxury fashion accessory for the nobility.

The most elegant and light yet very warm is the Shahtoos (Shah Tosh or the fabric/garment/covering of royalty) shawl, made from the hair of the fabled 'Chiru' antelope of Tibet. These shawls are beautiful and warm as a plain woven piece or as exquisitely embroidered master pieces. These are very expensive and rare to find. To preserve 'Chiru', these shawls are mostly sold from one buyer to another like carpets.

Woven

The woven types are very stylish to add a dash of patterns on plain ensembles. The patterns cover the entire length of the shawl or stole, in rich or pastel combination. The patterns can be worn on both sides in different color tones.

These are made like the Banarsi fabric on looms but with a woolen fiber.