People liken the paisley pattern to teardrops, flowers, pine cones, tadpoles, seeds, and halves of the yin-yang. The paisley pattern was once a popular and luxurious pattern favored by the aristocracy, and has experienced ups and downs in popularity over the centuries. This historical pattern is still very popular in modern fashion.
In this blog post, we will start with the mysterious origins of paisley and end with a paisley pattern item from KARAKU.
index
1. The Mysterious Origins of Paisley
2. Paisley: A pattern loved by celebrities
3. 5 KARAKU paisley pattern items
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The Mysterious Origins of Paisley
There are several theories about the origins of the paisley pattern, but the pattern is so old that there is little documentation to determine its exact origins.
The earliest evidence is found in the decorative brickwork of the Noh Gunbad Mosque in Afghanistan, dating from the 9th century. Although much of the building is now in ruins, the flowing paisley forms are similar to the design we know today.
In Persian, paisley is called 'boteh', and traditionally the pattern called 'boteh-jegheh' was woven into a silk or wool cloth called 'termeh'. In 1272, Marco Polo passed through a city where termeh was produced and recorded "a certain quantity of silk cloth", which is believed to be paisley fabric. Paisley fabric was made in several cities, including Kashmir, and the English word 'cashmere' also comes from this area.
In the mid-15th century, Persian royalty were depicted wearing paisley-patterned robes. At the same time, paisley weaving techniques were introduced to India. In the 17th century, it became fashionable for Persian leaders to wear large, ornate paisley-patterned brooches on their headdresses, a custom that continued into the 18th century.
Paisley shawls were introduced to Europe in the 17th century, when the East India Company was established, facilitating trade between the East and the West. The paisley pattern became a huge trend throughout Europe, becoming popular among the nobility, and in turn, the demand for paisley increased among the common people. This led many textile mills to introduce mechanized looms and mass-produce paisley products.
In the Paisley area (a city in southwest Scotland), a major factory producing paisley patterns was established in 1808, and the name of the city was given to the paisley pattern. At its peak, more than 50 manufacturers produced shawls of various designs, and by the late 19th century, paisley shawls had become popular and affordable. However, as mechanized production replaced traditional handwork, the economy of the oriental towns took a big hit, and many people lost their livelihoods. As a result, paisley shawls were no longer considered a luxury item, and prices fell sharply.
Paisley: A Pattern Loved by Celebrities
In 1965, British singer and activist John Lennon bought a mature and calm Rolls-Royce, which seemed like a symbol of success. However, this black car did not fit Lennon's free-spirited and bold personality as a rock legend. In 1967, inspired by a gypsy convertible in his garden, Lennon took the Rolls-Royce to a car customization company and asked if they could repaint it. The company agreed, and several gypsy artists modified the car and painted it with colorful patterns. Lennon took a picture with the modified car, wearing a paisley-patterned shirt.
Not only Lennon, but many rock stars including David Bowie, Jimi Hendrix and Mick Jagger were into this pattern, and the paisley pattern became a representative pattern symbolizing the rebellious spirit of rock music.
Painter William Holman Hunt painted a portrait of his wife, who died in childbirth, wearing a paisley-patterned shawl.
Today, the paisley pattern is widely used in fashion items for both men and women. It adds a classic style to men's shirts and ties, and is reinterpreted in various designs with a modern sensibility in women's dresses, bags, and high-end shoes. It maintains traditional elegance while adding a modern charm, and is still a design that is loved in fashion.
5 KARAKU Paisley Pattern Items
01. Paisley jacquard boa cardigan
02. Paisley pattern jacquard knit sweater
03. Paisley Jacquard Shale & Suede Western Jacket
0 4 . Paisley Tasori Combination Pattern Half Zip Fleece Pullover
0 5 . 'Cat Melts Into Paisley' Patterned Cotton Long Sleeve Shirt
At KARAKU, you can experience paisley items that have been reinterpreted to fit the trend of the times while maintaining the unique beauty of the paisley pattern. Come see them. ^ ^
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