Parasol: A functional Fashion Accessory
Parasols in history, art, and fashion
What is a Parasol?
According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, a parasol is a small, dainty umbrella used for shading women’s faces from the sun. It became known as a parasol and was a standard element of fashionable women’s outdoor attire in the 18th and 19th centuries.
While parasols serve an important sun protective function, they are also incredibly beautiful and have a rich history. Early depictions of parasol usage can be found in art from Asia, China, India and Europe. Throughout history, parasols were considered a symbol of wealth for nobility.
“Morning Walk”, John Singer Sargent, 1888
Parasols for Sun Protection
At present, it is common knowledge that sun exposture is harmful to the skin. Dermatologists regularly warn us about the importance of staying out of the sun as much as possible. They encourage us to wear sunscreen to avoid sunburn, premature aging of the skin, and forms of skin disease. Thousands of years of historic parasol usage tells us that our predecessors had awareness about the harmful effects of the sun.
Fortunately today, one no longer need be a wealthy noble to afford a sun protective parasol. In addition to supporting healthy skin, parasols can also serve as an exciting fashion accessory that expresses personal style.
Relief of Xerxes at Doorway of his Palace, Persepolis, Iran.
Parasols for Fashion and Status
Parasols have been used for centuries as a protection from the sun and rain. The history of the parasol can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where parasols were used as a symbol of royalty and nobility.
In China, parasols were used as early as 2000 BCE and were made of silk and bamboo. They were used to protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays and were considered a sign of wealth and status.
In Europe, the parasol became popular during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Used by both men and women, the parasol was considered an essential accessory for fashionable attire. The parasol was often adorned with elaborate designs, such as embroidery, lace, and fringe.
The parasol became more practical, in the 18th and 19th centuries, with the invention of the collapsible umbrella. Umbrellas were made with metal frames and waterproof fabrics, making them suitable for use in the rain.
By the 20th century, the parasol became more widely available to the general public, and its popularity continued to grow. Today, parasols and umbrellas come in a wide range of styles, colors, and materials, and are used for both practical and decorative purposes.
Festival Parasols
Romantic Parasols
Modern Fashion Parasols for Every Style Preference
Modern parasols offer flexibility in colors and styles, like these handcrafted parasols from Elegance Lamps. Cotton lace parasols suit every style preference. For the festival goers, Elegance Lamps offers LED fairy light parasols with radiant colors, remote controllers, and multiple battery options. Romantic Bohemians will delight in parasols with floral embroideries and luxury fringe, and Bohemian colors. In addition, Elegance Lamps caters to the darkly inclined with stunning Gothic parasols in perfect black. New parasols are released April through August and can be found on Etsy or the Elegance Lamps website.
Parasol Accessories for Steampunk and Renaissance Cosplay
What’s better than a beautiful parasol to complete your personal look? Parasol accessories! Enhance your vibe with an extraordinary handmade parasol holster by professional leather craftspeople at Dreamtender Leather. The holders have delightful shoulder straps for hands-free carry when you are Tea Dueling or simply enjoying lunch with friends. You can find Dreamtender Leather on their website, on Instagram, and at in-person fairs and festivals in Oregon and California. Parasols holders are a must-have for Renaissance Festivals, Steampunk events, and Victorian Festivals.
About the Author
Crystal Hayes, Owner & Designer at Elegance Lamps Victorian Lampshades, Antique Lamps and Parasols
Crystal Hayes is a lifelong Seattle resident who gains inspiration from the natural beauty and vibrant arts communities in the Pacific Northwest. She thrives on creative expression resulting in unique functional art that can be used in everyday life. Crystal is entirely fearless when it comes to design, she is a perfectionist about construction techniques, and she proves that customer satisfaction still matters.
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ARTISAN PARASOLS BY CRYSTAL HAYES
Functional art you can wear.
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