Pashmina Power: From Princess Diana to Kendall Jenner, Winter's Ultimate Fashion Statement
New Delhi | January 17, 2026 06:00 PM IST
There's something truly timeless about a pashmina in winter. Light on the shoulders yet wonderfully warm, this accessory feels indulgent while remaining extremely practical. More than just a cold-weather layer, a pashmina possesses the power to elevate even the simplest outfit effortlessly.
From Kendall Jenner's latest paparazzi click showing her leaving a parking lot cloaked in a maroon pashmina shawl to the late Princess Diana's iconic bottle green head scarf moment, the Kashmiri heirloom has traveled across the globe. It has become a fashion staple in both royal and runway wardrobes.
Closer to celluloid, celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Angelina Jolie, and Leighton Meester in Gossip Girl have been spotted draped in the luxurious fabric. They seek equal parts glamour and warmth. If you have a pashmina lying in your closet, now is the perfect time to take it out and beat the winter chill.
How to Style Your Pashmina Like a Pro
When styling a pashmina, don't think of it as an afterthought. Mangalore-based fashion designer Kshama Pandit suggests treating it as a statement accessory that adds depth, texture, and character to your look.
According to her, one of the most classic ways to wear it is the simple shoulder drape. Let it fall naturally over both shoulders, just like Kendall Jenner does. In the Indian context, this works beautifully with structured coats, knitwear, or traditional outfits like sarees and salwar suits.
"It's understated, elegant, and perfect for formal evenings or intimate winter gatherings," said the founder of Label Kshama Pandit.
For everyday wear, she recommends giving traditional styling a modern twist. "Belt your pashmina at the waist to create a cape-like silhouette. This instantly defines your shape while keeping you warm without feeling bulky," she advised.
This style pairs effortlessly with dresses, denim, or even workwear. It's ideal for women who want comfort without compromising on polish.
Mastering the Art of Layering
Pandit believes layering is where pashmina styling truly comes alive. Just like Blair Waldorf (Meester's character from Gossip Girl), wrap it loosely around your neck for a cozy, voluminous scarf look.
You can also experiment with asymmetrical drapes where one end falls longer over the shoulder for a more contemporary feel. On days when you want to play with color, layering two pashminas in complementary tones adds visual interest while keeping the look refined.
Color and texture make all the difference, the designer added. Jewel tones bring richness to neutral winter wardrobes. Embroidered or patterned pashminas add a festive touch for evenings and celebrations.
Take a cue from Princess Diana's emerald fabric and pick a bold shade to let the textile do all the talking.
Creative Styling Approaches
Bhavisha Singh, Costume Designer & Founder of Turban, shared her insights. "If you own a solid pashmina shawl, they are perfect for color blocking: draped over monochrome winter looks, layered with contrasting separates, or styled creatively into a poncho-style wrap."
There are endless ways to tie, drape, or fold it. This allows the pashmina to adapt seamlessly to both casual and elevated wardrobes.
Intricately detailed pashmina shawls can be styled with minimal basics like neutral co-ord sets, ribbed dresses, high-neck sweaters, or woollen midi dresses, Singh recommended. They also layer beautifully under long trench coats, over structured jackets, or even loosely wrapped around winter dresses.
The Heart of the Pashmina
At its core, a pashmina is about comfort. Warm yet breathable, luxurious yet easy to wear, it's the kind of winter essential you reach for again and again.
"The idea is to let the shawl lead, while the rest of the outfit quietly supports it," concluded Singh.
This versatile accessory continues to bridge cultures and generations. From South Asian tradition to modern street style, the pashmina remains a powerful fashion statement that transcends trends.
