Mantilla is a women's head covering, part of the national costume of Spain and some countries of Latin America. The popularity of this accessory has repeatedly reached a peak, and then faded away. Today, the mantilla cannot be called a trendy trend, but it does not seem to threaten complete oblivion: this accessory is part of the business protocol for members of the Spanish royal family and is widely used in wedding fashion around the world.
History of occurrence
There are two versions of the origin of the mantilla. It is possible that they are both correct.
Some historians believe that the mantilla is an echo of the Arabian veil, which the inhabitants of the Pyrenees first saw during the Muslim conquest of the peninsula.
According to the second version, the spread of fashion was influenced by the decree of King Philip IV, who ordered the "priestesses" to cover their heads with mantillaslove." Brothels at that time in Spain were already very common, and the king believed that such a step would protect decent seigneurs from sidelong glances and encroachments. But the senorita had a different opinion: they decided that not only prostitutes needed lace. Either to spite the king, or simply out of love for beauty, the Spanish ladies, as if by agreement, began to dress in mantillas without exception.
Mantilla in the modern world
Today, no one associates this accessory with either the wives of Arab conquerors or brothels. In Spain, the mantilla is treated with great respect. The current Queen Letizia chose this accessory when she got married. Her predecessor, the mother of King Philip VI, Queen Sophia, both during the reign and after the abdication in favor of her son, regularly appears at official events in the mantilla. A Greek by birth, Sofia has always tried to emphasize respect for the traditions of her new homeland.
A mantilla or cape as a piece of clothing is a must for ladies when going to a reception with the Pope.
Both in Spain and in Latin America, you can see the mantilla in everyday life only on respectable matrons. Young girls wear lace veils over their heads only on holidays. Carnival, bullfighting, folk music festival, flamenco dance performances are a great occasion for an accessory. By the way, flamenco dancers themselves also often use a mantilla as part of a dance costume. Generally, preference is givenred bedspreads.
What are Paynets?
As you can see in many photos, the mantilla is attached to the head with a contraption. These are special combs - paynets, which in the old days were made of bone, tortoiseshell or wood. Installing the comb unevenly, on one side - this is still considered the wildest bad manners in our time, no self-respecting woman will ever do this. Paynets have always been the pride of fashionistas, they were very cherished, passed down to daughters-in-law and daughters.
In recent years, the method of wearing without combs has also become popular.
Etiquette
If you decide to get a mantilla, remember some rules.
In no case should it be longer than the hem, the optimal length is considered to be mid-thigh.
Spanish women fasten the mantilla on their heads so that turning their heads to one side does not expose the opposite shoulder.
White, beige, milky, light blue mantilla is an option for young maidens. Married ladies prefer black bedspreads. Red, so beloved by dancers, can become a decoration for a festive costume.
The black mantilla is an accessory worn at wakes and funerals, but combs are not allowed in this case. The bedspread is simply thrown over the hair pulled into a bun.
Mantilla in wedding fashion
Queen Letizia is not the only bride who appeared before her beloved and guests in a luxurious mantilla. This version of the veil is popular far beyond the borders of Spain. Canmention Gwen Stefani and Kate Moss as an example. A gorgeous lace mantilla also adorned Nicky Hilton's head during her wedding to James Rothschild.
Mantilla as a piece of clothing has become widespread in evening fashion, but it is impossible to talk about the peak of popularity, so the accessory can be called even more attractive for lovers of everything unusual. If you are preparing for a wedding or celebration, the mantilla is a great choice.