How to Style a Poncho?

Are you thinking of wearing a poncho but unsure what to pair it with based on your style? How to style it so that you look chic without feeling cold?

I’m here to help you.

As a huge fan of bohemian chic style, I really appreciate the poncho. It perfectly embodies the spirit of freedom and originality that characterises this world.

That’s why I’m here to help you learn how to incorporate it into your wardrobe to create stunning 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 great for everyday wear as well as for holidays, allowing you to layer underneath with multiple clothing items to stay cozy. The golden rule when wearing a poncho is to pair it with fitted pants or leggings to create a more streamlined silhouette. Ankle-high shoes like ankle boots or tall boots will be just right to complete your outfit.

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

• Where the poncho comes from and when to wear it,
• My tips on staying warm while wearing it,
• What pants, shoes, and accessories to pair with a poncho,
• How to match it to your style,
• And plenty of outfit ideas and tips based on your preferences and style!

What exactly is a poncho?

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

What is a poncho?

The poncho is a simple garment that falls under the category of jackets and vests, although it’s somewhat different. In fact, it is a piece of fabric, usually square-shaped, that you drape over your shoulders or pull on like a sweater, but it does not have sleeves. In this sense, it is similar to a split cape, which you wear over your other clothing.

Although it was historically worn by both men and women, it is now predominantly a part of women's fashion and comes in many vibrant styles. Its loose and flowy nature, along with ethnic-inspired patterns, makes it a distinctive piece of bohemian style. However, there are also solid-colour, more classic versions that can be paired with various outfits.

Where Did It Come From?

As its name suggests, the poncho is a traditional garment from Latin America. It has a long history, with some of the oldest examples dating back over 1000 years before our era, worn by the peoples of Peru who later became the Incas. The poncho was originally woven from Alpaca wool, making it a very warm garment, perfect for working. It could also be used by shepherds as a blanket for sleeping or as protection against the rain.

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

When should you wear a poncho?

Easy to throw on over your outfit, this clothing item is perfect for wearing in autumn and spring instead of a jacket. It has the added benefit of shielding you from gusts of wind and light drizzles, which is really handy when the weather is unpredictable.

❄️ If your poncho is thick or you're layered up underneath, you can definitely wear it during winter too.

What occasions are suitable for wearing this type of clothing?

You can wear your poncho every day, whether you’re going to work, spending a day with family or friends, or even just to stay warm at home. This very comfortable garment is perfect if you enjoy snug and cozy outfits! If it’s on the thinner side, it’ll be great for keeping you warm on summer evenings while also protecting you from mosquitoes! 🦟

🛑 However, if your job requires a strict dress code or you need to wear formal attire for a special occasion, a poncho might not be the most suitable choice… In that case, it's better to opt for a simple blazer or a ¾ jacket.

What to wear under a poncho?

It's definitely possible to stay warm with a poncho, even in winter, as long as you follow these basic guidelines:

• Layer Up: Wear a tank top underneath your clothes, and throw on a cardigan under your poncho.
• Tuck your top into your pants or skirt to keep the cold out.
• Choose fitted clothing made of cotton or wool.
• You can also opt for a turtleneck, which will keep your neck and nape warm.

When it comes to colours, if the clothes you’re wearing under your poncho are visible, make sure to match the colours well. If your poncho has patterns, opt for a solid and subtle top. On the other hand, if your poncho is plain, you can play around with transparency by letting your colourful outfit underneath peek through, coordinating in warm or cool tones.

What to Pair Your Poncho With?

Since the poncho is a unique piece of clothing, it can easily become the highlight of your outfit. Let's explore together how to showcase it alongside the rest of your attire!

What to wear with stockings?

For a balanced look, I recommend pairing your poncho with a fitted pair of pants, which will balance out the loose fit of the poncho. If your poncho is light in colour, you can wear dark pants for contrast; the opposite applies if your poncho is dark. Alternatively, you can also create a monochromatic outfit, depending on your preference.

If you prefer to wear a skirt, opt for a slim-fit style, like a pencil skirt that falls above the knee. It's best to avoid long and flowy skirts, as they can make your silhouette look wider and don't complement a poncho well.

What Shoes to Wear?

The poncho, which has a shape similar to that of a dress, pairs very well with ankle-length shoes. This can include simple ankle boots, as well as thigh-high boots for a very feminine and sexy look. Opting for high-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 them in a colour that matches the poncho to balance out your silhouette.

👉 Avoid flat shoes (like ballerinas and loafers) and sneakers, as they don't pair well with the poncho style.

What accessories can enhance a poncho?

To complete your outfit, you can definitely pair your poncho with one or two simple yet unique accessories! The most obvious choices are a hat, which complements the bohemian and ethnic vibe of the poncho, and a belt, which lets you cinch it at the waist to highlight your curves. This is particularly handy if you're not quite comfortable with the loose fit of the poncho!

How to Wear a Poncho According to Your Style?

Although a poncho is originally an ethnic and bohemian garment, there are many ways to wear it so it fits your style and blends seamlessly into your wardrobe.

For a 100% bohemian and hippie chic look

If you love the bohemian style, the poncho is likely to become one of your favourite garments. It indeed allows you to embrace this trend for the autumn-winter season, as it has the same qualities as a bohemian dress, being loose and flowy, while keeping you warm.

It pairs really well with the signature colours of the boho style (brown, cream, white, cognac…), and also with the natural materials that define it (wool, linen, cotton…).

👉 Are you a fan of bohemian style? Discover your joy at our online store dedicated to this vibe! Throughout the year, we curate a selection of unique women's clothing to help you find a look that truly reflects you.

Tunics and blouses

For a Chic and Feminine Look

Do you want to wear a poncho but worry that your outfit might not be stylish enough? By pairing it with fitted and smart clothing, you can create a chic ensemble that suits you perfectly.

It's better 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,
• Thigh-high boots or heeled boots,
• A short pencil skirt, preferably with a classic pattern if your poncho is solid (houndstooth, checks, polka dots…) for a haute couture look,
• An elegant leather handbag in the same colour as your shoes.

For a Cozy and Casual Winter Outfit

If you're looking for a comfortable outfit to keep warm during the winter, consider a thick wool poncho, preferably with a turtleneck. You can pair it with a matching scarf and beanie, and wear comfortable clothing underneath, such as leggings or a snug long-sleeve top. Choose ankle boots and a stylish handbag to add a touch of elegance to your outfit, and you're all set!

You’re now all set to create unique and trendy outfits with a poncho: don’t hesitate to try on different clothes to find out what truly suits you! And if you love fashion, check out all our free guides on our online store’s blog!