Simply a giant circle (or square) with a hole cut for your head, the poncho is one of the oldest garments in the world.
It originated in South America as a brightly coloured, woven square or rectangle with a centre head opening, worn as a blanket covering the body.
The allure of ethnic garments and accessories during the late ’60s and early ’70s brought the poncho to the West.
Hippies adopted the Mexican serape blanket, while grandmas hand-knitted a homemade fashion for the little ones.
The return to handicrafts in the ’70s delivered crocheted and macramé style ponchos.
Even after the fashion style faded, plastic ponchos remained a must for rainy day gear.
The traditional style is still a favourite of many, a bulky body blanket that’s like a homemade sweater without all the hassle of knitting sleeves.
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