Why do Indian women have their nose pierced? There’s no one answer to this! The practice probably came into India around the 16th century, along with the Mughal invaders. According to another theory, the Sushruta Samhita, an ancient Ayurvedic...
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Summer is the time for ice cream, sun, and swimsuits. But if you’ve been paying attention to style trends the past few years, you may have noticed the emergence of another warm-weather staple: the kaftan. Available in a number...
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Strong and sturdy, Olive wood comes from the Olive tree, one of the most symbolic trees in history. Olive trees were first cultivated over 7,000 years ago in the Mediterranean, and continue to flourish within the region and all...
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Whether worn as an amulet on a necklace or kept as a token in one’s pocket, humans have always relied on the power of good luck charms. Every culture all over the world has a special symbol, icon, or emblem...
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Similar in appearance to Mother of Pearl, capiz shell is coveted for its delicate appearance and natural luster. But where does this unique material come from?
For as long as there have been birds, humans have always found beauty in their feathers. Worn as jewelry and on costumes, feathers have captivated with their colors and ethereal softness. But feathers are more than pretty; they contain...
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The stuff of pennies and the Statue of Liberty, copper is one of the most widely known metals around. You probably know it first and foremost by its characteristic red color, but there’s so much more to this famous...
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What is a Kurti? A kurti is a long-sleeved, collar-less tunic worn by women throughout Southeast Asia. The kurti, which usually rests just past the hips, is a slightly-shorter version of the kurta, which falls to the knees. Kurtas...
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When it comes to jewels and accessories, there’s nothing wrong with loving something purely because it’s pretty. But if you’re looking to wear a piece that carries significance, whether through its design or its backstory, you might find yourself...
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Once upon a time, dyes ruled the world. Okay, not literally. But dyes and textiles did play a major role in international trade and economics. And one of the most vital dyes was the color indigo. In fact, traders...
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You may have spotted them in décor magazines or even on the runway: textiles with bold geometric patterns of color that, upon close inspection, appear to bleed into one another. Used for everything from rugs to jackets, this fabric...
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