we love accessories. but even more so we love learning about the meaning and tradition behind certain pieces. native american headdresses, while more recently cropping up amongst the trend-savvy in art photos and catalogs, have traditionally symbolized power and bravery as well as steadfast spirit. in most cases, headdresses weren’t made in one sitting but rather curated over a period of time. as warriors committed acts of bravery, a feather would be added to the headdress as a symbol of that act.  so the more feathers in a headdress, the more elaborate the glory: warriors with full headdresses were believed to be the bravest and often most ominous tribe members.

images via: aromaticembrace.com / the henry brothers blog