What is a Ruana and Its Origins
The Ruana is a versatile and elegant garment with deep historical roots. Originating from the Andes region of South America, particularly in countries like Colombia and Venezuela, the ruana has been a traditional piece of clothing for centuries. The word "ruana" itself is derived from the Chibcha word meaning "Lord of Blankets," which is fitting given its design and function. Traditionally, Ruanas were made from wool and served both as a means of warmth and as a cultural identifier.
Over time, the Ruana has evolved from its traditional woolen form to include a variety of fabrics and styles, making it a favorite in contemporary fashion. Today, Ruanas can be found in luxurious materials like silk and cashmere, offering both comfort and style. The Ruana's open-front design and draping fabric make it a flattering option for all body types, providing both coverage and style. Its versatility allows it to be worn in numerous ways, adapting to different occasions and settings effortlessly.
Different Ways to Style a Ruana for Casual, Formal, and Evening Events
Casual Day Out
For a casual day out, Joy's hand painted silk Ruana can be the perfect blend of comfort and style. Opt for a satin trimmed chiffon silk Ruana from Joy Silk, which offers a soft, breathable layer that's ideal for a relaxed outing. Pair it with your favorite jeans and a simple top. To add a touch of sophistication, accessorize with a coordinating silk scarf, draped around your neck or tied to your handbag for an effortless chic look. Complete the outfit with comfortable flats or ankle boots.
Pro Stylist Tip: To keep your Ruana in place, use a scarf buckle in gold or silver. This not only adds a decorative element but also ensures your Ruana stays secure throughout the day.
Formal Events
Ruanas are not just for casual wear; they can also be styled for more formal occasions. A hand painted silk Ruana from Joy Silk can transform a simple dress into a statement piece. For a formal dinner or a wedding, choose a Ruana in your favorite colors, pair it with a sleek, fitted dress and heels. The Ruana should drape elegantly over your shoulders.
Pro Stylist Tip: Secure your Ruana with a brooch or decorative pin to keep it in place while adding a bit of sparkle to your ensemble.
Evening Events
Whether you're heading to the theater, a concert, or an artist reception a Ruana can elevate your evening attire. Choose a Ruana in a luxurious fabric like chiffon or crepe de chine for a touch of elegance. Pair it with a cocktail dress or an elegant blouse and tailored pants. A silk evening shawl from Joy's Limited Edition Collection can add an extra layer of sophistication. Opt for classic accessories like pearl earrings or a statement necklace to complement your look.
Pro Stylist Tip: Drape the Ruana over one shoulder for a modern, asymmetrical look that's both chic and functional.
Accessorizing Tips to Complement Your Ruana Look
Belts
A belt can be a great way to add structure to your ruana and highlight your waistline. Choose a thin, elegant belt for a subtle touch or a wide, statement belt for a more dramatic effect. Wrap the belt around your waist over the Ruana to create a defined silhouette.
Pro Stylist Tips
Experiment with different belt styles and materials, such as leather or fabric belts, to find the look that best suits your outfit and occasion.
Choose jewelry that complements the colors in your Ruana. For example, if your ruana has gold accents, opt for gold jewelry to create a cohesive look
Scarves
When choosing a scarf to pair with your Ruana, consider the overall style and occasion. For a casual look, opt for a scarf in coordinating colors. For formal events, a black or white scarf can add a touch of sophistication.
Pro Stylist Tip: Mix and match your scarf to the color and texture of your Ruana to create a harmonious and polished look. Shown above: Irish Moss Hand Painted Silk Ruana paired with Irish Moss Devorè Velvet Shawl.
Girls' Night Out
Joy's Hand Painted Silk Ruana is a perfect choice for a girls' night out, offering a blend of comfort and style. Choose a satin trimmed chiffon Ruana from Joy's Fire Collection to make a statement. Pair it with a fitted top and skinny jeans or a stylish skirt, add heels or boots and statement jewelry to complete the look.
For a more glamorous touch, opt for a Ruana with hand stamped accents. Drape it over your shoulders and secure it with a scarf buckle for added flair. A Ruana can also be transformed into a chic cape by draping it over both shoulders and letting it flow freely.
Pro Stylist Tip: To wear your Ruana as a shawl, fold it in half the long way and give it a half twist for a modern take on the classic shawl
Theater or Concert
When attending a theater or concert, a Ruana can add uniques style to your look. Choose a silk Ruana and pair it with a classic little black dress or a sleek jumpsuit. Add statement jewelry, such as chandelier earrings or a chunky bracelet, to enhance the look.
Drape your Ruana over one shoulder for a sophisticated asymmetrical look, or wear it as a shawl over both shoulders for a more traditional style. The key is to keep the rest of your outfit simple and let the Ruana be the star of the show.
Weekend Brunch Outfit
For a weekend brunch, a silk Ruana can be the perfect addition to a casual yet chic outfit. Paired with a simple blouse and denim jeans or a casual dress your Ruana will make your style stand out. Add comfortable flats or sandals and minimalist jewelry for a relaxed, effortless look. A Ruana can also be belted at the waist to create a more defined silhouette.
To explore the various styles and options of Ruanas, shawls, and scarves, visit Joy Silk online for a wide selection of high-quality, hand-painted silk accessories. Here are some product pages to help you find the perfect piece:
By exploring Joy's Online Showroom, you can easily find the perfect ruana, shawl, or scarf to complement your wardrobe and style. Whether you’re looking for a casual piece for everyday wear or a luxurious accessory for a special occasion, Joy Silk has you covered with their exquisite collection of hand-painted silk garments.
Final Thoughts
A Ruana is a versatile and stylish addition to any wardrobe, offering endless possibilities for both casual and formal occasions. By experimenting with different ways to wear and accessorize your Ruana, you can create unique looks that reflect your personal style. From casual day wear to formal events, a Ruana can be your go-to piece for effortless elegance. Visit Joy Silk to explore their collection of beautiful, hand-painted silk Ruanas, shawls, and scarves. Discover how these exquisite pieces can enhance your wardrobe and elevate your style for any occasion. Consider working with Joy to create a custom hand painted silk accessory or garment for a special treat!
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