Being raised in Thailand, I was always surrounded by moms and aunties wearing what they called pashminas. It was a staple piece my mom threw on before leaving the house, especially if we were attending a formal event. Most of my memories of pashminas though, consisted of my brother and I stealing my moms pashmina at the family function. This was of course because we wanted to wrap ourselves while we sat in the corner playing plants vs zombies on my dads phone. However, let's talk about the actual history of pashminas. Pashmina shawls originated in Southern Asia within the Himalayan mountain range. The original pashminas consisted of wool from the Chyangra goat, providing warmth to the people of Nepal and eventually to royalty. It slowly became a status symbol since the wool made to make pashminas could only be attained from the high-altitude regions of Kashmir and Ladakh. Over the past 400 years, pashminas have become a fashion staple not only in Asia but to many other countries as well, now using a variety of different materials to make it affordable to everyone.

Eventually, the rave community adopted pashminas not only for practical reasons, like protection from dust and the elements, but symbolic as well. They foster community and connection by creating a safe space for ravers. They provide a sense of security or a "bubble" at raves when put over head since they block out light and sound. They provide seating and makeshift blankets for cool nights or air conditioned venues. One of my fondest rave memories is when I was having an anxiety attack in the crowd, and the sweetest raver wrapped me up in her own pashmina. I remember feeling the comforting fabric block out the lasers, muffle the noise and provide a barrier between my body and everyone else's. I immediately felt grounded. From then on I wished everyone had a comfort pashmina to bring to the rave with them!

On top of all of the functionality of them, it's also the perfect canvas for self expression! Everyone deserves to showcase their own individuality through their ENTIRE outfit. I draw unique designs that I hope can represent others personalities just as well as they do mine. So whether you need warmth, dust protection, comfort, personal space or a piece to match your rave fit, a pashmina has got your back