Novel Idea

As an English major, I am constantly reading one novel after another. The second I finish one, I have to pick up the next to keep up with my fast-paced lit class. But sometimes, a novel I read stays with me, influencing me in ways I wouldn't have expected.

I recently read Ceremony by Leslie Marmon Silko, about the struggle of Native Americans to retain old traditions in a changing world. Silko's descriptions Native American ceremonies, the costumes and headdresses, has made me seek out these traditional influences in modern clothing.

I found great beaded sandals by Jeffrey Campbell, beaded bracelets with boho patterns, and even a metal "feather necklace". I especially love the sturdy shape of the necklace's pendant.

And it turns out I'm not the only one embracing Native American embellishments. One of my friends wore a patterned beaded belt with jeans a couple days ago that reminded me of one I had as a kid. She found it at a local flea market... So I guess you know where I'll be next weekend!