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How to Wear a Flower in Your Hair?

How to Wear a Flower in Your Hair?

1 January 2025

The Tradition of Flower in the Hair in Polynesia

Polynesia is a region rich in cultural traditions and one of the most emblematic is undoubtedly wearing a flower in the hair. This practice, full of meanings and subtleties, is much more than a beauty accessory: it tells stories, expresses emotions, and conveys messages.

Origins of the Tradition

The tradition of wearing a flower in the hair dates back centuries, rooted in the ancient cultural practices of the Pacific Islands. Polynesians use flowers to honour nature, celebrate important events, and communicate non-verbal messages. Local flowers, such as the tiare Tahiti (Gardenia tahitiensis), hibiscus (rosa sinensis), and the frangipani flower (plumeria) are particularly prized for their beauty and enchanting fragrance.

Significance According to the Placement of the Flower

The position of the flower in the hair in Polynesia is a language in itself:

  • On the left: If the flower is worn on the left, on the heart side, it signifies that the person is in a romantic relationship or married. It's an elegant way to indicate that their heart is taken.
  • On the right: Wearing the flower on the right suggests that the person is single and available. It's a discreet and charming invitation to encounter and flirt.
  • On both sides: Though less common, wearing flowers on both sides can mean that the person is open to new friendships or that they are participating in a special celebration where beauty and conviviality are emphasised.

Open Flowers for Women, Closed for Men

Another interesting distinction concerns the type of flower used:

  • Open flower for women:  Women usually wear open flowers, symbolising beauty, femininity, and blossoming. A blooming flower reflects the grace and vitality of Polynesian women.
  • Closed flower for men: Men, on the other hand, often wear flowers that are still budding or slightly closed. This represents strength, discretion, and potential power. This choice also highlights respect for nature and its cycles.

The Choice of Flowers

The flowers used also vary according to personal preferences and occasions. The tiare Tahiti is the most iconic, but other flowers like hibiscus or frangipani are also common. Each of these flowers has its own symbols and meanings. 

 

Poemotu and the Flower Clip Adorned with a Tahitian Pearl

To celebrate this beautiful tradition, Poemotu offers an exclusive, elegant, and modern version: the flower clip adorned with a genuine Tahitian pearl. This unique creation combines the natural beauty of flowers with the elegance of Tahitian cultured pearls, known for their lustre and varied colours.

The Poemotu flower barrette is designed to be both practical and aesthetic, allowing you to keep the flower in place while adding a touch of sophistication thanks to the Tahitian pearl. Whether you choose to wear it on the left or right, this Tahitian pearl flower clip is an authentic and refined tribute to the rich Polynesian culture and a perfect accessory for any occasion.

Earn admiration by wearing a flower in your hair and embrace this tradition full of meaning and beauty. It not only reflects the cultural values of Polynesians but also their deep connection to nature. Whether picked from your garden or as a clip adorned with a genuine Tahitian pearl, Poemotu invites you to embrace this tradition with style and elegance.