Here is a nice example of how to wear a silk/cashmere shawl, in this case Couvertures et Tenures de Jour...
http://brieuc75.typepad.fr/.a/6a00d83451d39969e2015393f22960970b-800wi
Nice, I just picked up this exact shawl in Beverly Hills last Saturday. It's a huge hit each time I've worn it so far. So much you can do with it.