For your head!

Amy

There is something mesmerizing about a woman in a head scarf or turban. There's an evocation of mystery, secret knowledge, worldliness, exoticism. 

From a practical standpoint, head scarves and turbans are beautiful, usually with eye-catching prints or colors that jazz up an outfit, hide bad hair, frame the face, protect the top of the head (a vulnerable spot!) from the sun, etc. etc. etc. They're pretty awesome.

They're also ubiquitous. Cloth on the head in some form or another is an ancient practice found all over the globe.

Can this be a sharing of textiles? I think often about cultural appropriation, especially as a merchant of traditional fabrics. But can this be thought of as a cultural exchange instead of cultural appropriation?



In Jarune Uwujaren's excellent article (available here), she says:

There needs to be some element of mutual understanding, equality, and respect for it to be a true exchange.

That’s what cultural exchange can look like – engaging with a culture as a respectful and humble guest, invitation only.

I will discuss this further in my next post.

Banjara Woman

Clara Bow

Toubou Woman

Nomad Chic at Gypsy Fest in Madrid

Ankara head wrap. Wish I knew who this model was...

Ali McGraw 

Beautiful lady. Does anyone know who this is?

Bonda Woman, Orissa India

Acacia

Bet

  
Miri