Friday, October 30, 2015

The Last Word by Karen

         FRINGE  BENEFITS







In Mesopotamia 300 to 300BC fringe adorned the two most basic garments worn: the skirt and the shawl. Fringe has been used for decoration at other points in human history, notably as a decoration on the leather clothes of Cowboys in the American West and as a brief fashion trend in the 1970's.

And lets not forget the roaring 20's, fringe was flying everywhere and they seemed to be having lots of fun.
                                                               
I remember watching the western shows that were television staples when I was a little girl in the 60's.  The male characters wore fringe jackets in addition to the native Americans who sported clothing with fringe and moccasins, remember those? For those of you too young to remember they were very popular.

Per an article written by the Gale Group, Inc. Fashion, Costume and Culture, Headwear, Body Decorations, and Footwear through the ages/2004, Native Americans of the Plains and elsewhere had long created garments with fringe, which served as a type of gutter that repelled rainwater from the wearer. Here's a thought, our eyelashes serve a similar purpose.

Easy Rider, a film in 1969 featured the stars wearing casual fringed suede jackets. The fringed jackets were really popular . Many Indian looks, including occasion boots and beaded belts became fashionable. Designer Giorgio di Sant'Angelo (1933-1989) copied Native American ceremonial dress for his fall 1970 collection. Di Sant'Angelo won the city American Fashion Award but backlash deemed the collection insensitive to native Americans.

Fast forward to spring 2015 where fringe made a strong showing.

Source: The Huffington Post/By Michelle Persad

You can add minimal touches of fringe to your wardrobe by  adding accessories.



 
Coat:    Rebecca Taylor "Artisan" Tweed fringe coat
Boots:  Giuseppe Zanotti fringed suede boots
Purse:  Silva Isla Fringe Gold
Gloves: Diane Von Furstenberg Fringe Leather Gloves



I now have fringe jewelry and shoes in addition to a skirt and jacket. I would love to buy a purse.  I will never wear them together, that would be too much of a good thing: I would consider that overkill.  Polyvore has contributors who have tastefully coordinated outfits which include fringed items.


Glasses: SEE 
Tee shirt: Target



Necklace: Baublebar


Chain Fringe Bracelet from Rowe Short North Columbus

The 2015 fringe is not much different than the 1970's offerings except for the fact that the designers have utilized more materials than the proverbial leather and seude.

Try it again, or for the first time.  You might find it interesting. Make sure your clear of anything that you might catch the fringe on, oh and be careful sitting, but enjoy!




One day at a time! Karen


other sources: www.fashionencyclopedia.com

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