Choosing the Perfect Shawl Gift Set: Material, Style, and Presentation

A staggering 68% of Indian gift shoppers feel overwhelmed when searching for a meaningful, heartfelt present during festive seasons like Diwali or weddings. 

I’ve been there, wandering through bustling markets or endlessly scrolling online, desperate for a gift that makes me “Eureka!” without feeling impersonal. 

That’s why I love a shawl gift set. It’s elegant, versatile, and deeply rooted in Indian tradition, perfect for everyone from your stylish sister to your beloved dadi. 

Growing up in Delhi, I gifted my first shawl—a handwoven pashmina—to my mother for her anniversary, and her beaming smile still warms my heart! 

In this blog, I’ll share my journey and practical tips for choosing the perfect shawl gift set.

How To Choose a Shawl Gift Set?

In India, a shawl gift set is more of a gesture of warmth and respect. Shawls are a staple, from festive celebrations to chilly winter evenings. A shawl gift set often adds that extra charm, making it ideal for weddings, festivals, or even corporate settings.

Here’s how to choose the perfect shawl gift set:

Step 1: Picking the Right Material

The material of a shawl speaks volumes. Here’s what I’ve discovered through years of gifting:

• Pashmina: Pure pashmina is utterly expensive and might require you to sell off your kidneys! Just kidding! But yes, pure pashmina is costly. On the other hand, blends with wool are budget-friendly and still luxurious. Look for GI-tagged pashmina to ensure authenticity!
  
  

• Silk: Perfect for festive occasions. My friend Anjali, who loves silk weaves, was thrilled with the silk shawl gift set I gave her for Diwali. Its rich gold border shimmered under the diya lights. Silk is ideal for warm climates or wedding season, but it’s less about warmth and more about elegance.
  
  

• Cotton or Khadi: Although not so popular, these shawls are breathable and are great for India’s diverse climates. Opt for handwoven khadi for eco-conscious friends or for a soft, summery feel.
  
  

• Wool or Chanderi: Wool is cozy for North Indian winters, while Chanderi blends silk and cotton for a lightweight sheen. I got a pure wool set for my sister in Shimla, and she loves draping it. Check for skin-friendly weaves—some wool can be scratchy.

Pro Tip: Visit local weavers for authentic materials. Touch the fabric or read reviews to avoid rough textures!

Step 2: Choosing a Style That Shines

Style is where you align the shawl with the recipient’s vibe. For example, if you choose to gift your fashionista friend who prefers muted tones a vibrant Bandhani shawl, chances are she is never gonna use it! 

Here’s how to get it right:

• Colour: We Indians love colour! Go bold with maroons or emeralds for festive vibes or soft pastels for subtle elegance. Chat about their wardrobe or notice their Instagram aesthetic!
  
  

• Patterns: Traditional motifs like paisley, zari, or embroidery scream Indian charm. My mom adores Kalamkari work, so I got her a shawl gift set with intricate Kalamkari motifs from Taroob! She squealed wth joy when she first saw it. Modern geometric patterns suit urban tastes, while Banarasi or Phulkari work for cultural enthusiasts.
  
  

• Size and Shape: Long, rectangular shawls double as dupattas, while square ones are versatile for draping. Oversized shawls are great for cozy gifting in colder cities like Delhi.

Pro Tip: For a safe bet, choose classic colours like cream or maroon with subtle zari work. Perfect for Indian festivities!

Step 3: Presentation That Steals Hearts

A shawl gift set deserves packaging as vibrant as our culture. Here’s how to make it memorable:

• Gift Box: A decorated box with gota-patti or mirror work screams festivity. Last Diwali, I wrapped a shawl gift set in a hand-painted box for all my guests! Look for pre-packaged sets on sites like Taroob. Their packaging of gift boxes are aesthetically pleasing to the eyes.
  
  

• Personal Touch: A handwritten note in Hindi or English adds warmth. For my mom’s pashmina, I wrote, “For your cozy chai evenings.” She still might have the card somewhere in her diary!  She is a hoarder like that! 

It’s a small touch that resonates deeply. Taroob allows you to add a personalized note to your gift set. You can write all your emotions down, and we will take care that they reach the recipient exactly the way you meant.

If shipping across India, use sturdy packaging with tissue paper to prevent wrinkles—nobody loves a creased shawl!

My Go-To Shopping Tips 

• Where to Buy: Visit local markets like Delhi’s Dilli Haat or online platforms like Taroob for authentic shawl gift sets. I ordered from Taroob, and they included a handwritten thank-you note—so charming!
  
  

• Budget: Quality shawl gift sets range from ₹5000 (silk) to ₹1,00,000 (pashmina). I usually stick to ₹5,000-₹10,000 for a balance of quality and affordability. Set a budget to avoid splurging in festive excitement!
  
  

• Authenticity: For authentic pashmina, check for handwoven labels or shop from reputed brands. I once bought a “pashmina” shawl from a roadside stall that frayed fast—stick to trusted sellers like Taroob.
  
  

• Seasonality: India’s climate varies heavily across its length and breadth! A heavy wool shawl won’t work in humid Mumbai or Kochi. Opt for a silk shawl for tropical regions or year-round gifting.
  
  

Wrapping It Up

A shawl gift set is a piece of India’s heritage, wrapped with love. From choosing a luxurious pashmina to presenting it in a festive potli, every step makes the gift special. 

Pick a material that feels indulgent, a style that matches their spirit, and a presentation that says, “You’re special!” That way, your gift won’t just be loved, it’ll be cherished.