On TikTok over the past month or so, I've been seeing a specific article of clothing getting a lot of attention suddenly: ponchos. The first time I saw someone wearing one, I didn't think much of it, but then it became a pattern. In particular, I noticed people styling them in chic ways reminiscent of The Row.
Then I started spotting them out and about in Brooklyn, worn in an artful way. Not once, but multiple times. I didn't see this micro-trend coming at all—but to be clear, the poncho is far from new. They've been worn for centuries by Indigenous communities in the Andes and continue to influence fashion globally.
It also makes sense through the lens of trends, as capes made a strong comeback on fall/winter 2024 runways, with designers like Proenza Schouler and Chloé embracing them. The poncho feels like a natural evolution from that, especially for the warmer weather in spring and summer.
As a chronically "I'm cold" person, I always like to have a layer on hand—even in spring or summer, when restaurants blast the AC or it cools off at night. A poncho is perfect for that, as it's lightweight, cozy, and easy to move in.
If you're considering getting one yourself, here are the best ones I've found.
I'm thinking of buying this one.
The dream poncho is, of course, Pucci.
A classic.
For a more colorful option.
This Quince one comes in a handful of different colors.
A $1260 Moncler poncho…
…or a $2950 one from The Row?
I like the shape of this one.
Buci's is elegant.
If you like fringe.
For the maximalists.
This one's different.
Not bad for $22.
For spring showers.
Issey Miyake's take on a poncho.
This gray one is chic.
This one is 100% cashmere.
This one reminds me more of a sweater-vest.