How to Wear a Men’s Shawl: Classic and Modern Shawl Styles for Men

A shawl is a versatile garment that serves both practical and cultural purposes in a man’s wardrobe. It provides warmth, reflects tradition, and adds a subtle style to an outfit. When draped properly, a shawl brings balance and elegance. If worn without care, however, it can appear untidy and distract from the overall look.

This guide shows you how to wear a men’s shawl with easy, practical steps. You’ll find classic and modern draping styles, tips for pairing shawls with kurtas or western outfits, and advice on picking the right fabric for any event.

Why men still wear shawls today

Shawls has been part of men’s clothing for a long time. In India, men wear them at religious events, weddings, and formal gatherings. In cold places, shawls keep you warm without feeling heavy.

Today, shawls aren’t just for traditional wear. Many men pair them with kurtas, jackets, or even suits. The right shawl can make a simple outfit look finished and stylish.

From a style point of view, a shawl adds:

• Texture to plain clothing
• Visual structure to loose garments
• Warmth without heavy layering

For traditional and everyday options, you can explore the men’s shawl collections available at Thandavas

Understanding shawl fabrics before styling

Before you learn how to wear a men’s shawl, it helps to know about different fabrics. The fabric changes how the shawl looks, feels, and fits.

Common shawl fabrics for men

Fabric	Best for	Key features
Wool	Winter and formal wear	Warm, structured, long-lasting
Pashmina	Weddings and ceremonies	Soft, lightweight, premium
Silk	Festive occasions	Smooth finish, rich appearance
Cotton	Daily and temple wear	Breathable and easy to manage
Acrylic blends	Budget-friendly use	Lightweight, low maintenance

Heavier fabrics are best for formal styles. Lighter fabrics are easier for casual or everyday use.

How to wear a men’s shawl: classic draping styles

This section covers classic ways to wear a men’s shawl. These styles are great for formal events, traditional outfits, and religious occasions.

1. The classic over-the-shoulder drape

This is the most traditional way to wear a shawl. It looks balanced, formal, and neat for special occasions.

Steps:

1. Fold the shawl lengthwise if it is wide.
2. Place it evenly across both shoulders.
3. Let both ends fall in front at the same length.

Best for: Ceremonies, temple visits, and formal gatherings.

This style keeps the shawl in place and looks tidy in photos.

2. The single shoulder drape (Angavastram style)

This traditional Indian style is often worn with kurtas and dhotis, especially at religious ceremonies and formal events.

Steps:

1. Place one end over the left shoulder.
2. Let the rest fall across the torso.
3. Adjust the length so it does not drag.

Best for: Religious rituals and traditional functions.

This is a popular men's shawl for a kurta look, especially in South India.

3. The folded shoulder display drape

This style is perfect for showing shawl borders, embroidery, or fine details at formal events and public gatherings.

Steps:

1. Fold the shawl neatly half widthwise.
2. Place it over one shoulder.
3. Let the folded edge face outward.

Best for: Felicitations, stage events, and formal welcomes.

This drape keeps the shawl on display and prevents it from shifting.

How to wear a men’s shawl in modern styles

Modern shawl styles are easy, comfortable, and simple, so they work well with western clothes and for daily use.

1. The neck loop style

This simple style is easy to wear and is great for men who want a practical, modern look.

Steps:

1. Fold the shawl lengthwise into a long strip.
2. Wrap it once around the neck.
3. Let both ends hang in front.

Best for: Travel, evening outings, and winter wear.

This style goes well with coats and other tailored clothes.

2. The loop-and-tuck method 

This method keeps the shawl secure while maintaining a sharp appearance, making it ideal for long wear and cooler weather. 

Steps:

1. Fold the shawl lengthwise.
2. Wrap it around the neck.
3. Pull one end through the loop to lock it.

Best for: Windy weather and long wear. 

It offers a clean men's shawl style that stays in place. 

3. The casual wrap 

This relaxed style is best for informal settings, offering comfort and flexibility without strict rules or structured draping. 

Steps: 

1. Wrap the shawl loosely around the neck.
2. Let both ends fall naturally.
3. Adjust only if needed.

Best for: Casual outings and daily use.

This style works best with lighter fabrics.

How to pair a men’s shawl with a kurta

To wear a shawl with a kurta, pay attention to the fabric, colors, and how you drape it. This helps keep the look traditional and polished.

Styling tips for kurta looks

• Choose plain shawls with patterned kurtas.
• Use rich fabrics like silk or pashmina for festive wea
• Match the shawl border with footwear or accessories.
• Avoid heavy folds for lightweight kurtas.&

A neutral-toned men's shawl for kurta works well across weddings, pujas, and family functions.

How to style a men’s shawl with western outfits

You can wear shawls with western clothes to add warmth and texture, while keeping your outfit simple and balanced.

Best pairings:

• Shawl with a blazer and trousers
• Shawl with sweater and jeans
• Shawl with a long coat in winter

Choose simple colors and avoid bold patterns. The shawl should be a soft layer, not the main highlight of your outfit.

Choosing the right shawl for each occasion

Pick your shawl based on the event, the weather, the fabric weight, and how formal the occasion is.

• Weddings: Silk or pashmina shawls
• Religious events: Cotton or wool
• Daily wear: Acrylic blends
• Travel: Lightweight wool or cotton

Always check the size. A regular men’s shawl should fit over both shoulders without feeling tight.

Care and storage tips for men’s shawls

Taking care of your shawl and storing it properly keeps its texture, shape, and quality, especially if it’s made from delicate fabric.

Basic care rules

• Hand-wash wool and pashmina with mild detergent.
• Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric.
• Dry flat in shade.
• Store folded in breathable cotton covers.

Air the shawl after use to prevent odour and moisture buildup.

Buying tips for men’s shawls

Knowing about fabric quality, size, and finishing touches helps you pick a shawl that fits your needs and style.

• Fabric quality
• Stitching and edge finish
• Weight and softness
• Care instructions

For traditional and ceremonial use, explore shawls designed specifically for rituals and formal wear at Thandavas.

Explore premium men’s shawls crafted for tradition and comfort.

Conclusion

FAQs

1. How should men wear a shawl?

Men should drape a shawl based on the occasion. For formal events, place it over both shoulders. For kurta wear, use a single-shoulder traditional drape.

2. Why do Indian men wear shawls?

Indian men wear shawls for warmth, respect, and tradition. Shawls are common during religious rituals, weddings, and formal gatherings across many regions.

3. Can a shawl be worn by men?

Yes. Shawls are worn by men across cultures. They provide warmth, add structure to outfits, and work with ethnic and modern clothing styles.

4. What is the difference between a shawl and a wrap?

A shawl is a traditional garment with cultural roots. A wrap is a broader modern term that includes shawls, stoles, and similar coverings.

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