At start a purely functional clothes accessory to protect yourself from the cold, the shawl evolved with time in a mode accessory combining elegance, softness, heat and comfort.
At the hour of the choice, how to find a shawl which will be appealing to you?
In Russia, the shawl is a necessary accessory.
And as there, elegance is an intrinsic condition in existence, really splendid shawls are found, where comfort competes with softness and bright colours.
The Genesis of the Russian shawls:
The Russian Shawls result from a long tradition where the need for protecting yourself from the rigours of the Russian winter, little by little made place with a research of elegance so particular to the Slavic charm.
In the 18th century, the cashmere shawls invaded Europe and as in many other countries, Russia started to produce shawls, taking as a starting point the Cashmere production.
As often, a new product provokes inspirations, then evolves in new directions. It is what the Russians made from the cashmere shawls, and having changed techniques and subjects, they developed a typically Slavonic style, as the emblematic "Russian Beauty" shawl.
The specificity of the Russian Shawls
Rather than the goat down, non available in sufficient quantity, the Russian Shawls were manufactured out of combed sheep wool.
After treatments intended to improve its softness, elasticity and durability, the result was a very solid, very colourful fabric with a really pleasant touch.
the Indians shawls had their designs embroidered by hand, which did not allow a great production.
The Russians thus introduced techniques of weaving close to the Gobelins tapestries to manufacture their shawls in great quantity, while producing an excellent quality.
Inspired like everyone by the exuberant design of the Indians shawls, the Russians re-used traditional designs from the CaucasusTzigans people, containing stylized floral decorations with frank and beautiful colors, and by adding silk or wool fringes.
This is why a Russian shawl is always a very appreciated gift.
For whatever reason, carrying it for yourself or to offer as a gift to a dear person, a Russian Shawl will always be accepted as a present of value.
Are you seeking one? Here is where to find them:
Most clothes store don't have Russian Shawls, because they are manufactured in small quantities.
However thanks to the Internet, it will be easy for you to find specialized boutiques where you will be able to obtain them easily.
In the boutique shawls you will find a wide range of very nice Russian Shawls chosen for their beauty and their softness.
See also châles and chales
