Umbrella

The ubiquitous umbrella has a long and eventful past. The umbrella or the parasol has found its use all over the world be it be China, Egypt, Europe, India or Siam and has been associated with many interesting use. The

umbrella was used by kings in ancient Persia and Egypt while it was associated with women and priestesses in ancient Greece and Rome. In India, China and elsewhere in the east, the umbrella was generally used by men of high stature in the society. In Europe, the umbrella was not much in fad in the ancient times but by the 17th century the umbrella had started gaining popularity; the earlier designs were perhaps inspired by the Chinese designs of the umbrella.

The strict users of the language would distinguish the meaning of the umbrella to be protection from the rain and the parasol to mean protection from the sun. The umbrella in modern times is not only in vogue for its obvious use but is also considered as a fashionable accessory. It is equally popular among both men and women and there are numerous designs and shapes available in the market to cater to the needs of one and all. The gents umbrella is bigger in size and has usually a large distinguished handle. The gents umbrella generally folds around the shaft and is also designed to serve as a walking aid when not in use. Available in many colours, the gents umbrella is generally devoid of any frivolous frills. The material used in modern times is cotton, plastic or nylon; these have replaced silk that was in vogue in earlier times. The wooden frame has come to be replaced with steel ribs that were invented in 1852 which has enabled the folded umbrellas to come into use.

In ladies umbrellas, the folded umbrella is extremely popular among. There are plenty of designs and colours to choose from in a ladies umbrella. The ladies umbrella is more compact in size: mini and super mini umbrellas being especially popular.

The innumerable designs and variety of umbrellas available in the market is mind-boggling. A very popular variety of umbrella is the bubbles umbrella. These cute umbrellas with a transparent body and colourful rim bands look extremely fascinating. These bubble umbrellas are very popular with the young college going fashionistas.

Another very popular umbrella is the Hello Kitty umbrella which is a popular childrens umbrella. These cute umbrellas with the Hello Kitty logo are a very popular brand with the young school going crowd. The endearing Hello Kitty umbrellas come in many colourful designs.

The umbrella is also a very important accessory in a garden. The garden umbrellas available not only enhance the beauty of the garden but also allow you to enjoy the beauty of your garden sans the sunís laser-sharp rays.

Then, there are the wedding umbrellas which create a distinct effect. The wedding umbrellas are either those that are used during weddings or are given as return gifts to all those attending the wedding. From the very ornate, which may include heavy handiwork, to the simple subtle white, wedding umbrellas are classy and elegant accessories.

Also available are the vintage umbrellas that are generally used more as fashion statements. Beautiful and elegant, these vintage umbrellas are also very popular.