Styling a poncho: This must-have item of clothing perfectly completes any outfit

Whether artfully decorated with fringes or classically decorated with checked patterns: ponchos are making a real comeback and have become a must-have item of clothing. The colorful throws from Latin America score points with their airy cut and can be combined in many ways. Trendsetters rely on the trendy layered look and wear it in autumn and spring as an alternative to a coat. Even in winter, it - usually worn as a scarf over the shoulders - effectively rounds off the outfit. We take a close look at the all-round talent and give you useful tips on how to style your poncho, which fabrics are suitable for the cold season and which ones are suitable for the warm season and which colors are particularly trendy in 2019.

Styling a poncho: The garment comes from South America

The loose onePonchocomes from South America. Originally the garment was worn as a scarf or, if necessary, used as a blanket. Nowadays it is still made from a single square piece of fabric, has no sleeves and is slit down the middle. Its wide, airy cut makes it the perfect companion in autumn and spring. When the temperature fluctuates, it can successfully replace your coat or, when the sun shines again, disappear into your handbag.

Ponchos and capes are often confused because at first glance they have many similarities. But there are actually several fundamental differences. Capes have arm slits and an A-shaped cut, so they cannot be worn over a coat and are less suitable for layering. They seem a little more strict and formal. In comparison, the poncho proves to be a versatile upgrade for both the office and everyday looks.

These poncho fabrics and patterns are trending right now

Depending on whether the garment is worn in autumn/spring, winter or summer, different fabrics come into question. The following materials are popular in 2019:

1. Acrylic: Acrylic fibers have a wool-like feel, are hypoallergenic, washable at 40 degrees and fade-resistant. Acrylic fabrics dry quickly and retain their shape even after many washes. The felt-free material is ideal for cool summer evenings.

2. Wool or boiled wool: Warmth and pleasantly soft on the skin is how pure wool can be described. A woven woolen fabric is called “boiled wool”. High-quality woolen fabrics have over 50% wool content, are water-repellent, durable and elastic. The textiles with wool are perfect for everyday ponchos that can replace the coat in autumn and spring.

3. Cashmere: Cashmere ponchos can ennoble any winter outfit. The high-quality material is tear-resistant and moisture-repellent, scores with a pleasant feel and an attractive look with herringbone patterns.

High-quality ponchos are not only recognizable by the quality of the fabric, they also score points with their high-quality manufacturing. When it comes to colors and patterns, the traditional block stripes and check motifs are still relevant. Patterned ponchos or models with stripes are real statement pieces of clothing.

How to put together a trendy outfit!

Ponchos are considered real combination talents. A simple monochrome model can perfectly complement the business look. Combinations of a blazer and poncho with a midi length prove to be particularly suitable for the office. Floor-length ponchos can be styled with evening dresses and maxi skirts. Outfits suitable for everyday use can be put together from a poncho in neutral colors and skinny jeans. If the top is combined with a skirt, the waist can be further emphasized with a belt over the poncho. Real trendsetters rely on short ponchos in signal colors such as the trendy neon yellow or neon green, which they pair with leggings and sneakers.