How to Wear a Shawl or Poncho: 6 Chic Ways for Winter

Shawls, capes and ponchos are back, and they are one of the easiest ways to look dressed up in winter. They sit over your shoulders, so they work over sweaters, dresses and even coats. This guide shows you how to wear a shawl or poncho in 6 easy ways, with real photos and labels.

Quick answer: Keep everything under the shawl slim, like a fitted top, slim trousers, tights or a mini skirt. Let the shawl be the big piece, and add tall boots or simple heels.

Step 1: Wear a Long Cape Coat With Earmuffs

1Fluffy earmuffs add a cute touch2Long cape coat over the shoulders

A long cape coat is a shawl and a coat in one. It keeps you warm and looks elegant right away. Fluffy earmuffs keep your ears warm and look cute with it.

Step 2: Pair a Knit Poncho With a Mini and Tall Boots

1Knit poncho over a mini2Tall boots keep legs warm

A cozy knit poncho over a short skirt or dress looks fun and stylish. Tall boots cover your legs, so the outfit stays warm.

Step 3: Throw a Cream Cape Over All Black

1Cream cape over all black2Slim black trousers

For dinner or work, wear a cream cape over an all black outfit. The light cape stands out and the black underneath looks sleek.

Step 4: Wear a Fringe Poncho With Jeans

1White fringe poncho2Blue jeans keep it casual

For a casual look, pair a fringe poncho with blue jeans. It is cozy like a sweater but looks more special.

Step 5: Try a Short Cape With Fluffy Boots

1Short white cape2Fluffy boots for a fun winter look

A short cape over a mini dress with fluffy winter boots is a cute holiday look. Matching all white pieces make it look clean and festive.

Step 6: Go Polished With a Matching Cape Set

1Cape top in camel2Matching skirt makes a set

A cape top with a matching skirt looks very polished. Wearing one color from top to bottom makes you look taller and the outfit feels expensive.

Shawl and Poncho Mistakes to Avoid

• Wearing baggy pants under a big poncho. You get lost in the fabric.
• Picking a shawl that is too short to drape well.
• Carrying a big shoulder bag that crushes the shape.
• Adding a chunky scarf on top. One big piece is enough.

FAQs

How do you wear a shawl in winter?

Drape it over your shoulders on top of a sweater or a fitted coat, and keep the rest of the outfit slim.

What do you wear under a poncho?

A fitted top, slim jeans, leggings, tights or a mini skirt. Slim pieces balance the wide poncho.

Can you wear a poncho with a coat?

Yes. A thin shawl can go over a slim coat, or wear a cape coat that has both in one.

What shoes go with a poncho?

Tall boots, ankle boots and simple heels all work. Fluffy boots look fun for snow days.

Now You Know How to Wear a Shawl

Let the shawl or poncho be the big piece, keep the rest slim and add boots. It is one of the easiest ways to look chic and stay warm this winter.

More ideas: how to wear a scarf, how to style knee high boots and how to style a leather jacket.