Channel your inner flower child!

Among other things, flowers are truly Mother Nature's best gift. In any form, their beauty and aura brings joy and happiness that is quite unlike anything else. So is it any wonder that women, the eternal purveyors of beauty, chose to adorn themselves with them? Since time immemorial, flowers have been used as jewellery in all cultures around the world, as well as a divine offering to deities, to a token of a lover's undying affection for his sweetheart, flowers have been hailed by mankind since the beginning of time. And when speaking of flowers, Spring naturally comes to mind! Oceans of ink have been spilled by poets describing the rejuvenating qualities of the abundance of flowers that bloom during spring as the old and withered are replaced by the new and young. No other season bears such life affirming vibes, renewing our minds and spirits alike.

In many ways, spring and beginning of the Bengali New Year are rather similar. For one, both represent a fresh new start, and for another, they celebrate life in all its glory. Us Bengali women like to usher in new beginnings by adorning ourselves with flowers, and why shouldn't we? Is there anything better? Absolutely not! Floral jewellery has a fresh, festive appeal that is pleasing to the eyes and fragrant for the soul. It is also eco-friendly, unlike any other kind. If you are keen on flowers as jewellery this Baishakh, then keep a couple of things in mind.

Firstly, check out the latest trends. Designs have come a long way, and if you truly want to stand out, customising is the way to go. While floral earrings and bracelets are common, why not do something different? A whole set of floral accessories are fun and festive, and you will stand out from the rest. Mix and match different colours, shapes and types. If your outfit is plain white, go the extra mile with colourful flowers, and vice versa for bright outfits. Flower crowns are very cute and fun. Small tea roses and zinnias look chic and sophisticated when worn as a long necklace, and carnations and roses look bold when worn as bracelets. Wear strings of beli as anklets, and for your finger, a small chrysanthemum is ideal. Flowers in the hair are eternally favoured, but this year, do things differently by pairing your usual roses and carnations with wispy Gypsy bundles. Thin strings of tuberose worn around the belly will look sensuous, and a traditional key-chain fashioned from flowers tucked in the waistline will look fabulous. Pick unusual colour combinations. Green with pink, yellow with purple, peach with magenta- the possibilities are endless! Let your creativity flow and this Baishakh, say it with flowers!