The year of the 'Shawl'

I've done a TON of browsing lately on the different bookmarked sites I have in my 'Crochet' folder... I have a question to all my other crafty friends.....

um... is it me or did all of a sudden european shawls EXPLODE into the market???  I've made one or two through the years but seriously??  Every page has a pattern and every magazine or shot I see of Hollywood out and about I see... Shawls.  FYI - If you're in my family you will probably get a shawl this year for Christmas.. like I said... I've made one or two through the years.....

So... While I'm currently busy with a poncho for my daughter, I'm contemplating another shawl or two... Anyone have a favorite pattern?

I've also noticed on all my other 'crafty' friends sites the EXPLOSION of head accessories.  I think I may dive into the party mix and see what I can contribute.  I know I have a pattern that goes way back to my Grandmother's era for crochet hairclippies...  hm... now which book was that in????

Let me know your thoughts.... I just may run another contest.... hm......