In the world of hi-fashion, a new trend is hitting the town. Or rather, an old trend is being revived. No need to call the fashion police, the shoulder pad is not making a comeback, yet (shivers!!)
Actually it's the turban that's been doing the rounds down the catwalks these days. Coming shortly on the heels of the ban on Islamic headscarf and Sikh turbans in schools in some parts of Europe, most memorably in France, these designer headdresses are fast becoming a regular feature on the ramp. With major design labels, namely Prada, H&M, Ralph Lauren, Moschino and Derek Lam, introducing their own interpretations of the turban this year, one wonders if it is actually going to the next big trend on the streets.
Turbans are symbolic headdress, worn throughout history to convey difference in levels of purity, religiosity, social-status, by men of various racial and socioeconomic persuasion throughout the Middle East and South Asia.
Although covering the head with some item of clothing remains a distinct cultural requirement across the world, women generally haven't been known to sport the turban. The new designer turban, however strongly resembles the headdresses traditionally worn by African women.
With the controversies that have been associated with the turban, one might say that the designers are trying to make a political statement here. But whatever may be the drive behind it, it appears that the turban is here to stay. For the spring/summer 2007 collections at least.
The turban appeared on Prada's spring/summer catwalk as part of a multicultural theme, with other eastern and oriental references. Even, Ralph Lauren who is renowned for preppy clothing has produced a version of the turban for this season. But the trend isn't a first for the ramps. The mystical turban has graced the heads of models in years past at Valentino, Donna Karan, Giorgio Armani, etc.
The news last week that Elizabeth Hurley has ordered all of her male guests at her upcoming wedding in India to wear the headwear has surely served only to fuel the turban's fashion moment.
