I

nvest in a multipurpose shawl as your best friend for a fashionable look. A nifty shawl will elevate any ordinary outfit into a chic fashion moment.

Look for shawls in soft pastel colors, such as pink or peach, which can double as an additional layering to your outfit, according to creative director Carline Darjanto and managing director Ria Sarwono – both from the Cotton Ink, a hip local fashion brand popular for its cool and innovative shawl creations.

Carline and Ria started Cotton Ink in late 2008 and very quickly their inventive “wear-it-your-own-way” shawl designs, became a major hit.

As a modern-day accessory versatile enough to be worn by all people of different styles, a Cotton Ink shawl lets customers freely express their individuality.

“You can create many looks with each of our shawl designs, from a simple to a more edgy style,” they explained.

Made of top quality cozy cotton jersey or soft viscose fabric, these superbly convertible circle shawls are a timeless keeper for all-year-round dressing occasions.

Classic Sensibility

The classic seamless tubular shawl in pink or blue makes for a fabulous semi formal add-on.

Carline and Ria recommend wearing the shawl as outerwear by wearing it in a cardigan or shrug style, the easy way to appear elegant without covering the details of your outfit. For casual outings, “simply wrap the shawl twice around your neck to draw attention to the face”.

Extreme Fringe

Showcase your adventurous side by donning this attention-grabbing graphite gray fringe shawl.

Note: this particular piece not only makes you look impressively awesome but also feeling amazingly good. It is eco-friendly and anti-bacterial, thanks to the bamboo fiber mixed with cotton fabric.

“The fabric also has a distinct two-tone texture that derives from the bamboo’s natural color. And we adore the slightly shiny effect it produces,” says Carline and Ria, of a design which makes the shawl even more irresistible.

“You can construct a daringly edgy androgynous flair by combining the shawl with blazer-and-legging attire,” advise the duo.

Take a pair of wedge ankle boots and a leather envelope clutch to complete the striking semi formal look. And why not enjoy the brisk summer nights by teaming the shawl with a laid-back ensemble of plain t-shirt, tailored mini shorts, and comfy flat shoes as recommended by Carline and Ria.

Krey Attitude

Need a trendy boost to your daily apparel? Then the krey tubular shawl with its one-of-a-kind ripped cutout details will make a great showstopper. There are various incredible styles you can present with a krey shawl.

Throw the shawl over a plain shirt or tank top as an oversized vest for an effortless up-to-date appearance. Or for a relaxed off duty getup, create a double shawl or halter-top style over the same color wardrobe. Gorgeously unique!

Acid Effect

The acid-wash shawl has always been a best-selling item for a solid stylish reason — “Each acid wash pattern, which are made by our in-house artisans, is stunningly different. Thus, every shawl will make a dashing one-off centerpiece to your entire look,” said Carline and Ria.

— Photos Courtesy of Cotton Ink