Ah, the serape.

Just looking at it makes you happy. This blanket reads modern, but it’s been around for a long time. Colorful, sturdy and functional, this blanket shawl was part of life in the traditional Mexican home, where it could serve as clothing, bedding and shelter. Colorful, versatile and fun; no wonder it’s a Pendleton customer favorite.

The serape’s roots

The serape’s roots are in the Mexican weaving tradition, but it is now common to both Spanish and Native American textiles. It’s known by many names throughout Mexico, including chamarro, cobiga, and gaban. It can be woven of a variety of materials and patterns but is generally lighter in weight. Different regions use different palettes, from the elegant neutrals of the Mexican highlands to the bold gradients of Coahuila.

Here’s a photo of a Native family in a historic Babbitt Brothers wagon with a serape peeking over the edge. This was taken in the Southwest, where the Babbitts plied (and still ply) their trade.

Pendleton’s serapes

Pendleton weaves our serapes of 82% wool/18% cotton in bands of gradient colors to achieve that beautiful eye-popping dimensional effect. This is your perfect spring and summer blanket, just waiting to be invited along wherever you go. And this week (2/14/19 through 2/17/19) we are giving one away on Instagram! So go enter!

P.S. Serape stripes are not just for blankets!

While you’re visiting www.pendleton-usa.com , be sure to check out our serape stripe beach towels, the Pendleton and Tommy Bahama collaboration for Fall 2018, and our men’s popover hoodie in a special heavy cotton chamois that’s brushed on both sides for ultimate comfort.