Edwardian Era Umbrella

Who doesnt like the Edwardian umbrella? Probably the best examples of eloquent craftsmanship at hand, Edwardian umbrellas were some of the most treasured items of the 1900s. The Edwardian era seems to have been the most fashionable parasol by far in all the regimes of royalty in England.

It was very important for ladies to carry parasols when they were going outside. In fact, no self respecting lady would have ever dreamt of going outside without an umbrella. Decoration however was the prime purpose of having these umbrellas.

So if you are thinking of using these umbrellas practically, you will be in for a big disappointment. In fact, the reason for such an umbrella was purely fashion. These umbrellas were made of artificial flowers or frothy lace and could not be used for any practical purpose; except for ineffective sunshades, that too only at times.

These parasols used to have thin long handles that usually ended with carved structures like those of bird heads. Sometimes they were also decorated with silver knobs. In this way, the umbrella had a similar design to that of the walking stick, usually used by the gentlemen of that age. The handles were adorned with handles and tassels.

Silk or chiffon was used to make the parasols. Rich women had parasols lined with silk. The design of Edwardian umbrella also showed the status of the women.

For instance, if somebody in the womans family had died, like her husband or father; she would stitch her parasol with black crape to signify her mourning period. This was usually hand stitched so that it could be removed from the umbrella as soon as the mourning period was over.

Ruche ribbons and fringes often adorned the edge of these umbrellas. Feathers, silk and lace were the prime materials that were used to make the parasols feminine.
However there was a distinct Oriental influence on the umbrellas of these times. It could be seen in the Japanese glazed paper sunshades. You can check examples of these umbrellas on the net.

So if you are looking for an Edwardian umbrella, make sure that it has the features mentioned above.