One of the most useful and effective accessories you can own
For me, there is a true fashion hero so versatile that it crosses all situations and styles — the humble Pashmina (or large scarf or shawl). There’s a myriad of ways in which this simple rectangle of fabric has changed not just my wardrobe, but also my approach to dressing and it’s why I have a passion for a Pashmina.
The word Pashmina has become generically used for a large shawl or scarf and can be made of anything from silk to wool and can be found in many weights. Technically this shouldn’t happen — as Champagne must come from the Champagne region in France and Stilton Cheese must come from the town of its namesake because the true ‘Pashmina’ is derived from the Persian word, pashm, the soft gold or the king of fibres and is said to have begun it’s journey to us back in the 15th century in the Kashmir Valley of India. A Pashmina is only a Pashmina if it’s made from the correct material.
A true ‘Pashmina’ is made from very fine-grade cashmere wool obtained from the underside of some Tibetan goats. They are often woven in multiple colours where one colour is stronger on either side which makes them really adaptable when accessorising your outfit.
I discovered the versatility of the Pashmina during menopause. Like me, many women experience sudden hot surges which can turn any outfit into an uncomfortable, sweaty crumpled mess. I found that wearing a lightweight shirt, sweater or dress, accessorised with a Pashmina, meant I could remove it and release the heat from my body easily, whilst remaining stylish. Soon after cooling down though, I would feel freezing and the Pashmina would again rescue me. I could easily wrap it around my shoulders again or roll it into a scarf and put it around my neck.
Springtime: Lately in the UK, Spring days have been gloriously sunny but there has been a keen bite in the air. Stepping out in a T-Shirt, jacket and lightweight trousers I can find myself feeling very chilly. Wrapping a soft pashmina around my neck saves me from the cool wind and seems to warm my whole body somehow. I’m not sure if this is just me or whether it is a common thing but having something around my neck makes me instantly warmer. My great grandmother had a single black velvet ribbon around her neck, from which hung a beautiful cameo. She said it kept her neck warm – so I guess it may be in the family.
Summer Evenings: A rise in body temperature in the summer months was not such an issue as I would be wearing light clothes anyway, but the early evening, when the temperature changes, can be chilly for anyone. In England, we appear to have lost the long hot summer evenings I remember from my childhood. Lately, the temperature often drops suddenly at about 4 pm and the evenings can become quite cold. Draped over the shoulders my Pashmina friend offers an easy solution to a chilly evening.
Winter Days: In contrast, on chilly winter days, a fluffy Pashmina wrapped snugly around the neck over a coat provides a barrier against biting winds and can be wrapped over the head inside a hood for added warmth.
Simple head covering: In my travels to regions where cultural norms dictate head coverings in public spaces or even at home in places of worship, the Pashmina offers a graceful solution. Loosely draped around the neck, it can be effortlessly lifted over the head when the occasion calls, showing respect for local customs whilst maintaining comfort and style. It’s also much easier to carry and pack than a hat — which always seems awkward, inconvenient and problematic.
Sun protection: In hotter countries where sunburn and heatstroke are a serious risk, the Pashmina provides a stylish head-covering paired with a stunning pair of sunglasses. In Egypt I wet the Pashmina with water and draped it over my head to keep cool, although it was soon thoroughly dry in the heat.
A simple cushion: Back home, living by the beach which unfortunately is made of pebbles rather than golden, soft sand, my folded Pashmina provides just enough of a protective seat cushion between a thin cotton dress or shorts and the hard, bumpy pebbles for a spontaneous cup of coffee on my way somewhere. I can sit on the beach comfortably without having to carry anything extra with me for that opportunity.
Protection: A Pashmina can also protect delicate fabrics from rough surfaces. At a wedding, whilst wearing a silk dress, the only place to sit and rest my feet, tired from standing for so long for photographs, was on a rough wooden bench. Not wanting to catch my dress, I folded my Pashmina and sat on that. It’s much less expensive to replace a Pashmina than to repair a silk dress.
In every situation, the Pashmina or large shawl remains a steadfast companion, a testament to its timeless appeal and versatility. I have several in various weights and colours. Next time you reach for your wardrobe essentials, remember the humble Pashmina — it’s your ultimate fashion ally.
elaineflook.online 