A ruana is an open-front wrap that rests over your shoulders, making it easy to layer over everyday clothes. In our County Kerry workshop, I design and sew tweed ruanas, capes, ponchos and shawls. Here are a few simple ways to wear a ruana and choose the wool that suits you.

Watch our ruana styling video on YouTube to see the wrap in use.

Three ways to wear your ruana

Wear it open. Let the two front panels hang naturally for an easy layer over a sweater, shirt or dress. Smooth the fabric across your shoulders so the weight feels evenly balanced.

Wrap one panel over your shoulder. Bring one front panel gently across your body and drape it over the opposite shoulder. This gives more coverage at the front and changes the shape without complicated folding.

Add a brooch. A suitable shawl pin or brooch can help hold the wrap in place. Fasten it through the fabric gently, without pulling the wool tight. Check that the fastening is secure and comfortable before wearing it out.

Hooded or without a hood?

A hooded ruana gives extra coverage around the head and neck. A ruana without a hood is easy to wear with your favourite scarf. Compare the measurements and photographs for the particular garment you are considering; different styles and wool weights drape differently.

Explore our Irish wool ruana wraps and hooded ruana capes.

Choosing tweed or lambswool

Tweed is a woven wool fabric, with patterns such as herringbone, checks and tartan. A heavier tweed has a more substantial feel; a lighter fabric drapes more softly. Lambswool is a good option if you prefer a softer, lighter feel. Wool is breathable, but it is not waterproof. If you have sensitive skin, wear a comfortable layer between the wool and your neck.

Caring for your wool wrap

Follow the care label supplied with your garment. Dry cleaning is recommended for our tweed ruanas. Between cleans, air the garment in a sheltered place and deal with small marks carefully. Avoid hot washing, tumble drying and vigorous rubbing, which can shrink or felt wool. Store your wrap clean and dry.

For a smaller layer, browse our Irish tweed wool shawls. You can also meet our family craft business or ask us about a style before ordering.

Made with care in County Kerry. From our family to yours.