FLOWERY FRILLS

Bengal is truly a land of magic and mystique. In here a woman can explore so many different facets of her personality; by wearing a single swipe of kajol she can be sensual and mysterious, or by putting a red teep on her forehead she can embrace her tradition and heritage. Since time immemorial women of Bengal have worn flowers in their hair to adorn their delicate long braids or demure haat khopa. The simplest of accessories, a lot of times picked from the garden or flower pot in the balcony, speaks volumes about the elegance of effortlessness.  It is a tradition that has attained cultural significance both at home and abroad. Blessed with long, dark locks Bengali women love to wear flowers in their hair to enhance its appeal and spread a whiff of its fragrance wherever her person treads.

In this regard, deshi flowers are favored for their freshness and heady scents over stale imported flowers. Pristine white flowers such as Beli, Gondhoraaj, and Rojonigondha are beautiful and perfect for the hot summer days. A simple hairdo is instantly elevated when decorated with fresh flowers. For Pahela Baishakh this year choose a string of Rojonigondha to coil around your khopa, or pick a fresh white rose to tuck behind your ear as you let your tresses loose. Individual pods of Beli can be used to embellish a Beni Khopa. To channel your inner Bangaliaana, wear floral jewelry to look fresh and stand out from the crowd. Most florists customize floral jewelry around the city, and you can let your imagination run wild! Use white flowers as the base and add contrasting colors to add pizzazz to your ensemble. Renowned boutique Mayasir that revels in Bengali culture and heritage used fresh flowers to adorn their models for this Baishakh. Handloom sarees and fabrics look earthy and vibrant when paired with floral jewelry, and is sure to set you apart in a crowd. So without further ado, channel your inner Bengali flower child and say it with flowers this Baishakh!       

By Sabrina N Bhuiyan
Photo: Sazzad Ibne Sayed
Model: Mashiat
Wardrobe and accessories: Mayasir
Make-up: Farzana Shakil