Shawl is a garment or clothing that is meant to provide a feeling of warmth. Since ancient times, shawls have been used to protect people from biting cold. Shawls also add a elegant touch and serve as a fashion item. Shawls had been a fashion statement for both men and women since ancient times. As the shawls are meant for providing a warm and soothing feeling, the material form which they are crafted needs to be fine, lightweight, soft and durable. The fineness of the fabric and unique designs and patterns are the factors that contribute to the value of the shawl.

Wool is the most commonly used raw material for making shawls. There are some other materials, which are also used for making good quality and stylish shawls. Shawls are also crafted out of natural and artificial fabrics thereby making them an excellent garment for winters. At times wool is also mixed with some other fabric to produce fashionable shawls. Besides wool, shawls are made from materials like fur, silk, alpaca, cotton, satin, velvet, jacquard, crepe, polyester, khaddar, etc.

On the basis of the material used for making them, shawls are of the following types:

• Alpaca Shawls
• Angora Shawls
• Beaded Pashmina Shawls
• Cotton Shawls
• Crepe Shawls
• Eri Silk Shawls
• Fur Shawls
• Jacquard Shawls
• Khadi Shawls
• Organza Shawls
• Pashmina Shawls
• Polyester Shawls
• Raffal Shawls
• Satin Shawls
• Shahtoosh Shawls
• Silk Shawls
• Silk Wool Shawls
• Velvet Shawls
• Viscose Shawls
• Wool Shawls