Henna Will Be This Year’s It Accessory

The old-age tradition has become a new-age must-have

Middle Eastern or North African, young or old, henna is a staple for most Arabs. An art form for some, and a mere body adornment to others; but above all, henna is tradition – one that stood the test of time.

 

The art of henna has morphed throughout the years as different communities adopted it. In the Gulf, women opt for intricate designs using paisley and floral patterns to cover most of the hand. In North Africa, the henna designs are intricate too, but took a more geometric direction, which is largely due to influence from Amazigh symbols.

 

In most places though, the dark pigment has always been used to mark special occasions. From weddings to Eid, henna has long-been synonymous with any and all festivities. But today, the tradition is facing a shift and joining tattoos in becoming a fashion statement rather than spiritual or religious symbol.

 

From super intricate to ultra-minimal, Arab women are now embracing the tradition on an increasingly regular basis. And to be honest, the move couldn’t come at a better time. Culture vultures have recently flocked to the art, wearing it as a mere accessory to music festivals and raves without recognizing its symbolism in Eastern cultures, and there’s no better way to battle blatant appropriation than by reclaiming it as your own.

 

So, if you’re looking to join in and sport the historic tradition without festive reason, MILLE picked six of our favourite designs for you:

 

 

 

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Une publication partagée par Bella Henna? (@bellahenna) le

 

 

 

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A polka dot affair #henna #hennaart #symmetry #thehennaarchive

Une publication partagée par عذراء (@dr.azra) le

 

 

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7enna hands #35mm

Une publication partagée par شب موها (@chebmoha) le

 

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