Pavlovo Posad shawls.

One of the most popular Russian crafts which can be found in any open-air souvenir marker, at the stall or in a shop is Pavlov-Posad shawl. It is a perfect gift from Russia which will be an essential item in the wardrobe of any woman. While touring Moscow and other cities with our Moscow guide you might spot a lot of Russians, young girls, and women wearing it especially in cold seasons.

The history of Pavlovo-Posad shawls goes back to the late 18th century when the factory was founded by Ivan Labsin. His business soon became very successful and known in different parts of Russian. Woven of yarns at the beginning printed woolen shawls replaced costly color woven shawls. Originally the hard wooden block used for each color was applied to print the design. In the late 19th century, it was replaced with a metal plate and later with roller printing. The characteristic feature of such a shawl is a bright whimsical floral ornament on the woolen shawl with tassels on its edges. The shawls ranging in colors and ornamental styles can satisfy the taste of the most demanding fashionable lady. No wonder that in the 20th century in 1938 Pavlovo Posad received the Grand Prix at Paris World Fair and some years later a new generation of designers confirmed its status and was awarded at the Brussels World Trade Fair in 1959. Thus Pavlovo-Posad shawls became world-known and loved not only in Russian but also beyond. Nowadays one can see Pavlovo-Posad shawl motives in the collections of Haut couture designers.

You may plan a tour to the factory producing the shawls in the town of Pavlovo-Posad or find such gifts in Moscow. There're plenty of shops selling such shawls on Arbat street and in Izmailovo gift market which can be visited during your three days in Moscow.