You know those days when your outfit looks pretty good, but it just needs a little something extra? A cute shawl or wrap may be all that’s missing!

I’m a big fan of shawls and wraps because they’re an easy way to add color, texture, and personality to an outfit. They’re also a lifesaver when you want some coverage over your arms but don’t feel like wearing a jacket or cardigan. From cozy cashmere to pretty evening shawls, here are five stylish types of shawls and wraps for women over 50 that are worth checking out!

5 Best Shawls and Wraps for Women Over 50

The fun thing about shawls and wraps is how many different ways you can wear them. Some are perfect for dressing up jeans, while others are ideal for a chilly airplane ride or a special night out.

1. Cashmere Shawls and Wraps

There’s nothing quite like the feel of soft cashmere! A cashmere wrap is warm without being heavy and makes even a simple outfit feel a little more special.

Try draping one over a sweater with jeans and loafers, or wear it over a dress when you’re heading out for dinner. A classic camel or cream wrap goes with just about everything, but don’t be afraid to have some fun with color.

Cashmere Wraps at Every Price Point

A beautiful cashmere wrap doesn’t have to cost a fortune, but there are also some gorgeous splurge-worthy options! Here are four worth checking out, starting with the most affordable.

• Quince Mongolian Cashmere Wrap – $102: A great place to start if you’ve been wanting a cashmere wrap without spending a fortune.
• Talbots Lofty Cashmere Wrap – $189: A cozy, classic choice that’s easy to dress up or down. Perfect for throwing over a sweater or wearing with a dress.
• J.Crew Oversized Cashmere Wrap – $228: Love a big, cozy wrap? This oversized style is just the thing for chilly days and makes a wonderful travel companion, too.
• Alice Walk Cashmere Wrap – $265: This double-sided cashmere wrap has contrasting colors and delicate fringe. Such a pretty choice if you want something a little different!

2. Knit Shawls and Wraps

When you want to feel cozy but still look cute, a knit shawl is just the thing. It’s a nice change from your usual cardigan and adds a little texture to a simple outfit.

I especially like fine-knit and ribbed wraps with a turtleneck, jeans, and boots. Just watch out for the really thick, chunky ones. They can add a lot of bulk around your shoulders, especially if you’re petite. A softer knit that drapes close to your body is usually more flattering.

Cozy Knit Shawls and Wraps

Want something cozy to throw on when there’s a chill in the air? These three knit wraps are cute alternatives to your usual cardigan!

• ChappyWrap Bayside Herringbone Shawl – $90: Love a classic pattern? This soft herringbone shawl is a cute way to dress up jeans and a simple sweater. Plus, it’s machine washable!
• Lilly Pulitzer Lanelle Wrap – $108: This plush sweater wrap is perfect when you want to feel cozy but still look cute. Just toss it over your shoulders and go!
• Softies Solid Rib Marshmallow Shawl – $120: Doesn’t that name sound cozy? This super-soft ribbed shawl is just the thing for snuggling up on chilly days.

3. Ruana Wraps for Women

Have you ever worn a ruana? Think of it as a poncho’s more versatile cousin! It has an open front, so you can wear it loose, toss one side over your shoulder, or belt it for a little more shape.

A plaid ruana with a solid sweater, dark jeans, and tall boots is such a cute fall look. Plus, the open front creates a long vertical line that can make you appear taller and slimmer. If you’re petite, choose one that hits around mid-thigh so it doesn’t overwhelm your frame.

Chic Ruana Wraps to Try

Love the look of a ruana? These three are perfect for adding a little extra warmth and style to your fall and winter outfits!

• Lauren Ralph Lauren Reversible Border Stripe Ruana – $110: Two looks in one! Just flip it over to change up the colors. Such a fun way to get more wear out of one wrap.
• Talbots Aspen Plaid Ruana – $129: This classic plaid ruana would look so cute with jeans, a solid sweater, and tall boots. Perfect for fall!
• Vince Wool & Cashmere Ruana – $298: Want to splurge? This wool and cashmere blend has a soft, flowing shape and pretty fringe for an elegant finishing touch.

4. Travel Shawls and Wraps

If there’s one thing I always appreciate when traveling, it’s having an extra layer handy. Why are airplanes always so chilly? A soft travel wrap is much easier to carry than a bulky jacket, and you can even use it as a little blanket.

Look for a lightweight cashmere blend or fine-knit wrap that folds easily into your carry-on. I suggest a neutral shade that works with several outfits so you can wear it on the plane, sightseeing, and out to dinner. That’s one less thing to pack!

Travel Wraps Worth Packing

If you travel a lot, a good wrap is a must-have! It’s perfect for those freezing airplane cabins, and you can wear it again when you’re out sightseeing or heading to dinner. Here are three cute options at different price points.

• Nordstrom Transitional Knit Travel Wrap – $49: This is a great little find for the price! It’s lightweight, comes in several pretty colors, and won’t take up much room in your carry-on.
• Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Heathered Travel Shawl – $125: If you’re always cold on airplanes, you’ll love the idea of this one! It’s super soft, has handy pockets, and even folds into its own little travel pillow. How clever is that?
• MERSEA Modern Travel Wrap – $141: Ever get tired of your wrap slipping off your shoulders? This one has a clever little loop that keeps it in place. It also comes with a matching travel bag, so it’s easy to toss into your carry-on.

5. Dressy Shawls and Evening Wraps

Have a wedding, holiday party, or fancy dinner coming up? A pretty evening shawl is the perfect finishing touch, especially if you’re wearing a sleeveless dress and want a little coverage.

Silk, chiffon, satin, and fine metallic knits all look beautiful for evening. If your dress has a lot going on, keep your wrap simple. But if you’re wearing a classic black dress, a shimmery silver or champagne shawl can make it feel much more festive!

Pretty Evening Shawls and Wraps

Need a little arm coverage for a wedding, holiday party, or fancy dinner? These three pretty wraps will do the trick!

• Nordstrom Metallic Lightweight Wrap – $39: A little shimmer is always fun! This sparkly wrap would look gorgeous with a simple black or navy dress.
• Silk Chiffon Wrap – $79: Light and airy, this is a pretty choice for covering your arms without hiding your dress.
• Carmen Silk Scarf/Shawl – $185: A pretty way to add a pop of color or pattern to a simple dress. You can even wear it as a scarf!

How to Wear a Shawl or Wrap Over 50

The trick to wearing shawls and wraps is making them look stylish instead of like you’ve thrown a blanket over your shoulders. A few simple styling tricks make all the difference!

Drape It Over Your Shoulders

Sometimes the easiest way is the best way. Just drape your shawl over your shoulders and let the ends hang down in front. It’s a classic look that works with jeans, sweaters, and dresses.

If it keeps sliding off, toss one end over the opposite shoulder. It looks a little more relaxed and helps keep everything in place.

Create a Long, Slimming Line

Want to look a little taller and slimmer? Try wearing your wrap open with both ends hanging straight down. Those vertical lines help elongate your figure.

A camel ruana over a black top and black pants is a great example. The dark outfit underneath keeps everything looking streamlined, while the wrap adds a pretty contrast.

Belt Your Wrap for More Shape

If your wrap feels a little too loose or shapeless, add a belt! It’s a simple trick that can give you a more defined waist.

This works best with lightweight ruanas and soft wool wraps. You can belt the whole wrap or just the front panels and leave the back flowing. I’d skip belting anything too chunky since all that extra fabric can bunch up around your waist.

Balance Your Proportions

The last thing you want is to get lost in your wrap! Since shawls tend to be loose and flowy, they usually look best with more fitted or streamlined pieces underneath.

Straight-leg jeans, slim pants, and simple dresses are all great choices. If you’re petite, stick with a shorter wrap that doesn’t swallow you up.

What’s the Difference Between a Shawl, Wrap, Ruana, and Poncho?

Ever wondered what the difference is between all these styles? You’re not alone! Retailers often use the names interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same.

A shawl is a piece of fabric you drape around your shoulders, while a wrap is a more general term for something bigger you can drape or wrap around your body. They’re so similar that you’ll often see them called both. The most popular shawls right now are small cashmere shawls.

A ruana is more like an open-front cape with two long panels that hang down in front.

A poncho typically slips over your head and hangs loosely over your outfit.

If you love having options, go with a shawl or wrap. You can drape it, tie it, or wear it like a scarf. A ruana gives you a little more coverage with an elegant, flowing look, while a poncho is perfect when you want something cozy you can just slip over your head and go.

How to Choose the Best Shawl Wrap

Before you fall in love with a pretty shawl, think about when and where you’ll wear it. Cashmere and merino wool are great for staying warm without a lot of bulk, while cotton and linen are better for warmer days. For weddings and special occasions, silk, chiffon, or satin are pretty choices. I’d also look for a soft fabric that drapes nicely instead of something stiff that sticks out around your shoulders.

Size matters, too! Some wraps are barely bigger than a scarf, while others are large enough to double as a blanket. Check the measurements before ordering, especially if you’re petite. As for color, neutrals are always useful, but don’t be afraid to go bold. A bright shawl can be just the thing to wake up an outfit full of basics!

More Tips for Wearing Shawls and Wraps

How to Wear a Shawl Without Looking Old-Fashioned

Shawls and wraps are classic, but you don’t want to look like you’ve borrowed something from Grandma’s closet! The trick is to keep the rest of your outfit modern. Try a soft cashmere wrap with straight-leg jeans and loafers, or drape a pretty shawl over a simple dress for an evening out.

How Do You Keep a Shawl From Slipping Off Your Shoulders?

Isn’t it annoying when your shawl keeps sliding off every time you move? Try tossing one end over the opposite shoulder or securing it with a pretty brooch or shawl pin. Just be careful with delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon, since a pin can leave holes. A wrap with a little texture will also tend to stay in place better than something silky and slippery.

What Kind of Shawl Should You Wear With a Dress?

That depends on how dressy you’re going! For a casual sweater dress or knit dress, a soft cashmere or fine-knit wrap looks lovely. If you’re headed to a wedding, cocktail party, or fancy dinner, try a chiffon, silk, or metallic evening shawl.

If your dress has a bold print or lots of detail, I’d keep the shawl simple. But if you’re wearing a classic little black dress, this is your chance to have some fun with a pretty color or a touch of shimmer!

Which Shawl or Wrap Is Your Favorite?

Who says you need a whole new outfit to change up your look? Sometimes all it takes is a pretty shawl or wrap to make something you’ve worn a hundred times feel fresh again!

Have a holiday party coming up? Be sure to check out my favorite holiday dresses for women over 50. A pretty evening wrap is the perfect finishing touch!