How to Wear a Poncho?

Are you thinking of wearing a poncho but unsure how to style it to match your wardrobe? How to dress with it to stay stylish while keeping warm?

I'll help you.

As a fan of boho chic fashion, I have a particular fondness for ponchos, as they perfectly embody the spirit of freedom and originality that defines this style.

That's why I’m here to show you how to incorporate it into your wardrobe to create fabulous outfits that truly reflect your style, with the help of this detailed guide!

Originally from Latin America, the poncho is perfect for keeping you warm during autumn and spring. It’s ideal for everyday wear as well as for holidays, allowing you to layer up underneath with several items of clothing to stay cosy. The golden rule when wearing a poncho is to pair it with fitted trousers or leggings to create a more streamlined silhouette. Ankle boots or knee-high boots will complete your outfit beautifully.

Want to know more details? Keep reading to find out:

• Where the poncho originates from and how to wear it,
• My tips for staying warm with it,
• What trousers, shoes, and accessories to pair with a poncho,
• How to match it to your style,
• And plenty of outfit ideas and advice tailored to your tastes and style!

What exactly is a poncho?

Very comfortable and feminine, the poncho is a garment that lets you express your uniqueness. In the following lines, I'd like to share a bit more about it.

How to Define a Poncho?

The poncho is a simple garment that falls into the category of jackets and vests, although it is slightly different. Essentially, it is a piece of fabric, most often square, that you drape over your shoulders or slip on like a sweater, but it has no sleeves. In this sense, it is similar to a split cape, worn over the rest of your clothing.

Although it was historically worn by both men and women, it now predominantly belongs to women's fashion and comes in a variety of vibrant styles. Its loose and flowing nature and ethnic patterns give it a distinct bohemian style. However, there are also plain, more classic designs that can be paired with all types of outfits.

Where is it from?

As its name suggests, the poncho is a traditional garment from Latin America. It has a long history: the earliest examples date back over 1000 years BC and were worn by the peoples living in what is now Peru, who later became the Incas. Originally, the poncho was woven from alpaca wool, making it a very warm garment, perfect for working in cold conditions. It was also used by shepherds as a blanket for sleeping or as protection from the rain.

Nowadays, the poncho is still worn in South America and holds an important place in popular culture.

When is the best season to wear a poncho?

Easy to throw on over your outfit, this garment is perfect for wearing in autumn and spring, as an alternative to a jacket. It has the added benefit of shielding you from drafts and light showers, which is very handy when the weather is unpredictable.

❄️ If your poncho is thick or if you layer up underneath, you can wear it in winter too.

What occasion is this type of clothing suitable for?

You can wear your poncho every day, whether it's for going to work, spending a day with family or friends, or just to keep cosy at home. This incredibly comfortable garment is perfect if you enjoy snuggly and comforting outfits! If it's on the thinner side, it's just right for keeping you warm on summer evenings, as well as protecting you from mosquitoes! 🦟

🛑 However, if your job requires a strict dress code or if you need to wear formal attire for a specific occasion, a poncho might not be the most suitable garment... In that case, opt for a simple blazer or a ¾ jacket instead.

What to wear under a poncho?

You can stay completely warm with a poncho, even in winter, as long as you follow these basic guidelines:

• Layer Up: wear a vest underneath your clothes, and throw on a cardigan beneath your poncho.
• Tuck your top into your trousers or skirt to stop the cold from getting in.
• Choose fitted clothing, preferably cotton or wool.
• You could also go for a roll-neck jumper, which will keep your neck and nape warm from the chill.

When it comes to colours, if the clothing you're wearing under your poncho is visible, make sure to coordinate the colours. If your poncho has patterns, opt for a simple, understated top. Conversely, if your poncho is plain, you can play with its transparency by hinting at a colourful outfit underneath in either warm or cool tones.

What to wear with your poncho?

Since the poncho is a unique garment, it can easily become the focal point of your outfit. Let's explore together how to highlight it with the rest of your ensemble!

What tights to wear?

For a balanced look, I recommend teaming your poncho with a fitted pair of trousers, which will offset the loose style of the poncho. If your poncho is light-coloured, you can wear dark trousers for contrast; the opposite applies if your poncho is dark. However, you can also create a monochrome outfit, depending on your preferences.

If you prefer to wear a skirt, opt for a slightly tapered style, such as a pencil skirt, that falls above the knee. It's best to avoid long and flared skirts, as they can make your silhouette appear wider and won't add elegance to a poncho.

What Shoes to Wear?

The poncho, which has a shape reminiscent of a dress, pairs wonderfully with ankle-high shoes. This could be simple ankle boots, or even over-the-knee boots, for a very feminine and sexy look. Opting for heeled shoes is a great idea to elongate your legs and give you a very elegant appearance.

Leather or suede shoes will be perfect to complement your poncho: choose a pair that matches its colour to create a balanced look.

👉 Avoid flat shoes (ballet flats, loafers...) and trainers, as they don't really go well with the poncho style.

What Accessories to Enhance a Poncho?

To complete your outfit, it's worth noting that a poncho can be paired with one or two simple yet original accessories! The most obvious choices are a hat, which evokes the bohemian and ethnic vibe of the poncho, and a belt, which allows you to cinch it at the waist to accentuate your curves. This is especially useful if you're not entirely comfortable with the loose fit of the poncho!

How to Wear a Poncho Based on Your Fashion Style?

Although it’s primarily an ethnic and bohemian garment, there are various ways to style a poncho to suit your fashion preferences and seamlessly fit into your wardrobe.

For a 100% Boho and Hippie Chic Look

If you're a fan of the bohemian style, the poncho could quickly become one of your favourite pieces. It allows you to embrace this trend for the autumn-winter season, as it shares the same qualities as a bohemian dress, being loose and flowing while keeping you warm.

It pairs beautifully with the typical colours of the boho style (brown, cream, white, cognac…), as well as the natural materials that define it (wool, linen, cotton…).

👉 A fan of bohemian fashion? Find what you love at our online store dedicated to this style! Throughout the year, we handpick unique women's clothing to help you discover a look that truly reflects you.

Tunic and blouse

For a Chic and Feminine Look

Would you like to wear a poncho but worry that your outfit might not look smart enough? By pairing it with fitted and dressy clothing, you can create an outfit that is both stylish and uniquely yours.

It's best to choose a solid-coloured poncho or one with simple patterns that you can pair with:

• A black legging or jegging, possibly in faux leather,
• Some thigh-high boots or heeled boots,
• A short pencil skirt, ideally with a classic pattern if your poncho is solid (houndstooth, checks, polka dots…) for a chic, tailored look,
• An elegant leather handbag in the same colour as your shoes.

For a cosy and casual winter outfit

If you're on the lookout for a snug outfit to keep you warm in winter, consider a thick wool poncho, perhaps with a roll neck. You can team it up with a scarf and a hat in matching colours, and wear comfortable underneath clothing like leggings or a fitted top. Finish off the look with ankle boots and a lovely handbag to add a touch of elegance to your outfit, and you're all set!

Now you're ready to create unique and trendy outfits with a poncho: don't hesitate to try on your clothes to find what truly suits you! And if you love fashion, check out all our free guides on our online shop's blog!