If you're deciding between a rebozo and a poncho, the short answer is that they're built differently. A rebozo is a long, flat rectangular shawl with knotted fringe at both ends. You drape it, wrap it or tie it. A poncho is a single piece of cloth with an opening in the middle that you put your head through, so it hangs from your shoulders.
How the rebozo and the poncho are made
Our rebozos are handwoven in Mexico by local artisans on a foot-pedal loom, in cotton. They're about 60 cm (23") wide, with hand-knotted fringe. A poncho is cut or woven with a head opening and is worn pulled over the head. It covers the torso front and back.
How each one is worn
- Rebozo: over the shoulders, as a head covering, or crossed and tied around the body.
- More styles: see ways to style a rebozo.
- Poncho: pulled over the head. It's worn one way.
Rebozo vs poncho for cold weather
A poncho stays on your shoulders without being held, which helps outdoors when you need your hands free. A rebozo can be layered or wrapped tighter and doubles as a scarf. When you take it off, it folds flat.
Which should you choose?
- Choose a poncho if you want a garment you pull on and forget.
- Choose a rebozo if you want one cloth you can drape, wrap or tie in several ways. You can shop handwoven Mexican rebozos in our collection. One example is the Café de Olla cotton rebozo.
What about the serape?
The serape is a third Mexican textile that people often confuse with both.
FAQ
Is a rebozo a poncho?
No. A rebozo is an open rectangular shawl, and a poncho has a head opening.
Can you wear a rebozo like a poncho?
You can drape and tie it around your shoulders, but it doesn't have a head opening.
