How to Wear a Poncho?

You'd like to wear a poncho, but you’re wondering what to team it with based on your personal style? How to dress with it so that you look stylish without feeling cold?

I will help you.

As a fan of boho chic fashion, I particularly love the poncho, as it perfectly embodies the spirit of freedom and originality that characterises this style.

That’s why I invite you to discover 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 in the autumn and spring. It's ideal for daily wear as well as holidays, allowing you to layer up underneath with multiple garments to avoid feeling cold. The golden rule when wearing a poncho is to pair it with fitted trousers or leggings, which helps to streamline your silhouette. Ankle boots or knee-high boots are great choices to complete your outfit.

Do you want to know more? Continue reading to discover:

• Which country the poncho originates from and the context in which to wear it,
• My tips for staying warm with a poncho,
• What trousers, shoes and accessories to pair with a poncho,
• How to match it to your style,
• And plenty of outfit ideas and advice based on your preferences and style!

What exactly is a poncho?

Very comfortable and feminine, the poncho is a garment that allows one to assert their originality. In the following paragraphs, I invite you to find out 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 somewhat different. In fact, it is a piece of fabric, most often square in shape, that is draped over the shoulders or pulled on like a jumper, but it does not have any sleeves. In this sense, it is similar to a split cape, which is worn over other clothing.

Although it was historically worn by both men and women, it is now predominantly associated with women's fashion and comes in a variety of colourful styles. Its loose and flowing nature, along with its ethnic-inspired patterns, makes it a distinctive piece of bohemian style. However, there are also plain, more classic designs that can be worn with all types of outfits.

Where is it originally from?

As its name suggests, the poncho is a typical garment from Latin America. It is very ancient: the earliest examples date back over 1000 years BC and were worn by the peoples inhabiting Peru, who later became the Incas. The poncho was originally woven from Alpaca wool, which made it a very warm garment, perfect for labouring. It could also be 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.

In which season should you wear a poncho?

Easy to slip 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 protecting you from drafts and light showers, which is very handy when the weather is unpredictable.

❄️ If your poncho is thick or if you're well layered underneath, you can also wear it in winter.

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 just to keep warm at home. This very comfortable garment is ideal if you enjoy cosy and comforting outfits! If it's on the thinner side, it will be perfect for keeping you warm on summer evenings, as well as protecting you from mosquitoes! 🦟

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

What to Wear Under a Poncho?

It is possible to stay completely warm with a poncho, even in winter, provided you follow a few basic rules:

• Layer up: wear a vest under your clothes, and slip on a cardigan beneath your poncho.
• Tuck your top into your trousers or skirt to prevent cold air from getting in.
• Opt for fitted clothing made of cotton or wool.
• You might also consider a roll neck jumper, which will keep your neck and throat warm.

When it comes to colours, if the clothing you’re wearing under your poncho is visible, make sure to coordinate the colours effectively. If your poncho has patterns, opt for a plain and subtle top. Conversely, if your poncho is a solid colour, you can create an interesting effect by allowing hints of a colourful outfit underneath to show through, whether in warm or cool tones.

What to pair with your poncho?

As the poncho is a unique piece of clothing, it can easily become the focal point of your outfit. Let's explore how to style it with the rest of your ensemble!

What tights to wear?

For a harmonious silhouette, I recommend pairing your poncho with a fitted pair of trousers, which will balance out the voluminous nature of the poncho. If your poncho is light in colour, you can wear dark trousers to create contrast; the opposite applies if your poncho is dark. Alternatively, you can also create a monochromatic outfit, depending on your preferences.

If you prefer to wear a skirt, opt for a subtly flared style, such as a pencil skirt, that sits above the knee. It's best to avoid long and loose skirts, as they can widen your silhouette and do not add elegance to a poncho.

What shoes to wear?

The poncho, which can resemble a dress, pairs beautifully with ankle-height footwear. This could be simple ankle boots, but also knee-high boots, for a very feminine and sexy look. Opting for high-heeled shoes is a great idea to elongate your legs and provide you with a very elegant appearance.

Leather or suede shoes will be perfect to complement your poncho: choose them in a shade that matches your poncho to balance your silhouette.

👉 Avoid flat shoes (such as ballet pumps or loafers) and trainers, as they do not complement the poncho style very well.

What Accessories Enhance a Poncho?

To complete your outfit, be aware that a poncho can be complemented 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 particularly useful if you’re not entirely comfortable with the loose fit of the poncho!

How to Wear a Poncho According to Your Fashion Style

Although it originates as an ethnic and bohemian garment, there are several ways to style the poncho to suit your personal fashion preferences and ensure it fits seamlessly into your wardrobe.

For a 100% Bohemian and Hippie Chic Look

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

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

👉 A fan of bohemian style? Discover your perfect outfit at our online boutique dedicated to this world! Throughout the year, we carefully select unique women's clothing to help you find a look that truly reflects you.

Tunic and blouse

For a Chic and Feminine Look

Would you like to wear a poncho, but are concerned that your outfit won't be smart enough? By pairing it with fitted and stylish clothing, you can create an ensemble that is both chic and reflective of your personal style.

Preferably choose a plain poncho or one with simple patterns that you can pair with:

• A pair of black leggings or jeggings, possibly in faux leather,
• Thigh-high boots or heeled boots,
• A short pencil skirt with a classic pattern if your poncho is plain (houndstooth, checks, polka dots…) for a chic look,
• An elegant leather handbag in the same colour as your shoes.

For a cosy and casual outfit in winter

If you're looking for a cosy outfit to keep you warm during the winter, consider choosing a thick wool poncho, perhaps with a roll neck. You can pair it with a scarf and a beanie in a matching shade, and wear comfortable clothes underneath, such as leggings or a snug-fitting top. Opt for ankle boots and a lovely handbag to add a touch of elegance to your ensemble and you're all set!

Now you're ready to create original and trendy outfits with a poncho: feel free to try on your clothes to find what truly suits you! And if you're a fan of fashion, explore all our free guides on our online shop's blog!