
When it comes to finishing an outfit, a bolero jacket or shrug can be an elegant finishing touch. If you prefer to cover your upper arms, this can be a stylish way to do it but it’s also a great way to extend the life of all your summer dresses and tops.
There are lots of options available, do you choose tailored cover-ups or more relaxed, cropped cardigan styles? We’ve picked out some key cover-up essentials and included some handy tips on how to wear them.
Shop all jumpers and cardigans
Daytime shrugs and bolero cardigans
The shrug cardigan is usually open at the front and is a really easy-to-wear style for a little extra coverage. If you’ve seen a dress you love that is more revealing than you are used to, adding a shrug can complete your look and cover problem upper arms at the same time. Boleros and shrugs are perfect in warmer weather to replace a coat or jacket, but they can also be worn under bigger coats and jackets as the weather cools down as an extra layer. Team one with a plain white t-shirt and jeans for a more casual take on the look.
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Evening bolero jackets and shrugs
To make this wardrobe staple work for evenings or special occasions, simply look for luxe fabrics, beading or elegant details or opt for a tailored bolero jacket. A shift dress with a matching jacket is a great option for the races or a wedding, while something slinkier or shimmering is great for a party.
Cropped cardigans
Cropped, fitted cardigans are a great option for those wanting to emphasise their waist. If you’re wearing a ’50s-inspired  full skirt for example, keep things neat and chic on top with a fitted knit. Or, why not try printed or coloured styles to update a little black dress, creating a different look each time you wear it. For work, the cropped cardigan can look really smart with a tucked-in blouse and pencil skirt or tailored trousers.
Wraps and shawls
Alternatively, wraps, pashminettas and shawls can make a stylish cover-up. These are most often associated with formal or smart dressing and wrapping a scarf around your shoulders at a dinner dance or ball is a great way to wear this piece. But, you can also try wearing a wrap over a fitted jacket to work, or using one as a traditional scarf for added warmth when you need it.
How do you wear shrugs and boleros? What other style tips would you like to see on M&S Stories? Do let us know by leaving a comment below.











Comments2
On: 21 July 2012 Permalink
Do you have a way of showing what we have looked at and or ordered as its sometimes nice to team colours / items together – ie showing at the bottom of the page – other companies do this ie house of fraser- as you can see i am a big fan of m&s clothes but please do not sacrifice quality for cost
On: 23 July 2012 Permalink
Hi Patricia,
We are always looking at ways to improve our website for our customers and this is a really good point. We’ll be sure to pass your comments on to the website team for their consideration.
Regards
The Stories Team