Accessories complement one's attire and enhances the overall look of the person. Be it female or male, accessories are an important part of dressing up. All Asian, African or American countries have certain traditional ensembles that they treasure. Traditional accessories have been passed down to the present generation since ages. These are ageless traditional jeweleries, bags, belts, head gears or hats, scarves or some other stylish accessories. They have a great value even in today's modern world, as we take inspiration from those traditional accessories. Adorning our bodies with various ornaments, is a very old practice dating back to primitive eras. Various countries wore significant jewelries, often to mark their religious and cultural practices.
There is a history associated with jewelries as well. Like in India, around 3rd century BC, ring was worn in the thumb. While Greeks considered the index finger as the ring finger. Gold as a metal was considered sacred as it was valuable, conferring a prized status to the relationship. Roman wedding rings were designed as two clasped hands, some consisted of engraved key, believed to open the husband's heart. 16th century, Claddaugh ring shows a carved heart with clasped hands and crown symbolizing eternal love, friendship and trust. Jewish weddings in ancient times were not solemnized without the acceptance of the gold ring which was plain with no gems or stones. Traditional wedding accessory in Russia is the ring with three separate interlinked rings in three colors signifying trinity. Jade, Pearls are important in Asian traditional accessories during weddings.
Another traditional accessory in wedding is a tiara embellishing the bride's veil. Among other accessories are bags, clutches – traditionally crafted, like the native Indian leather bags or pouches. American-Indian bags included soft pouches and bags made from animal hides – mostly of deerskin and elk skin. They were beautifully painted and decorated with beads, quills depending on the purpose of the bag. Purposes included medical, tobacco holder or a gift or memorabilia for loved one. Nomadic Tibetans or Manchurian carried pouches for various purposes which had Chinese and Mongol motifs. Snuff bottles were kept in cases which also had symbolic embroideries, these were again attached with the belt. Bags were also of various shapes which were heavily brocaded showing Buddhist and Chinese motifs of dragons, coins, bats and peaches.
Traditional Indian accessories include 'bindi' or decoration on forehead, 'mangalsutra' or neck piece signifying a married woman, bangles and many more. Arm bands, ankle bands and other ornaments are highly traditional available with conventional designs and craftsmanship. Every region has a distinct way to accessories oneself, like the straw hats common in eastern regions. Kerala is famous for it's Nettoor jewelry boxes, made of metal. Bags also portray various mythological characters or ancient style of art on textiles, jute or other materials. If you would like to know more about accessories, visit accessorieszing.com.
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