The world of handbags is amazingly diverse.
The variety of style and material continue to increase in level with the
support and demand for fashionable handbags. Some are designed with simple
shapes but adorned with elaborate decorations. This is basically the makings of
a western beaded handbag. Whether the
handbag is leather, denim, hobo or tote, a beaded handbag is sewn with various
types of beads to form a pattern. Beads are quite diverse on their own. Simple
single colored beads are made of wood, plastic or glass.
They vary from the
basic donut shape to elongated beads that are similar to tubes but only about
half and inch in length. The more elaborately designed beads are made in
varying shapes usually in larger sizes. This allows the mixture of colors and
different patterns in a single bead. Beaded
handbags are hand sewn with simple beads and sometimes with a few sequins
or feathers here and there. Although beaded
handbags generally have the impression suitable for casual wear, many have
made these bags perfect for formal occasions.
In the Philippine scene, the beaded handbag has different image.
Beads and beaded handbags are already
engraved in its culture. The Philippines
is made up of several ethnic groups and most have a similar product, the beaded handbag. However the Philippine beaded handbag is quite different from
its western counterparts. Beads are originally used to make jewelry. They make
up ethnic accessories from head dresses to belts, bracelets and anklets usually
worn by royalty, during rituals and festive occasions. If diamonds are forms of
high class and fashion, beads are the diamonds of ethnic groups. Beads were
later made into handbags with the same technique of sewing the beads together.
Philippine beaded handbags are
basically made of beads and string.
While some are already made with nylon, the
ones made of thread are more tender and flowing like fabric. These beaded
masterpieces are formed for different purposes. Some are made into pen holders
with a long bead strap designed to be hung around the neck. Another design is
very small bag almost like a pouch with the same long bead strap for hanging
across the torso. This design is meant for carrying wallets and other small
personal items. Unfortunately, this form of beaded
handbags has not gained a higher status than ethnic and casual in this era.
Hopefully, the beaded handbag would
regain its place among the most admired and coveted accessories.
Beaded
handbags are faces of cultures and their history.
They deserve much respect and a chance to live on among today’s intermingling
cultures as a reminder of our past and a guide to the future.
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