Asian Style Umbrellas

If you ask anyone who has a personal style that you admire, they'll tell you that it all comes down to the little things. A pair of cuff links, those one of a kind earrings or that eyeglass case that seems to draw your attention. Useful necessities are usually left behind when it comes to making a statement, so it's all the more refreshing when you notice something mundane like an umbrella, and realize that it really stands out as something special. The original Chinese paper parasol was transformed in to the modern day waterproof umbrella when lacquer was used to coat the material. Since then, the Asian umbrella has become a home decorating staple and a personal statement of style for people who want to mix practicality with individuality.

Asian umbrellas are used mostly for interior or exterior decorating, as demonstrated by the larger patio models available for protection from the sun. Chinese Saa paper, the traditional construction material, is used as a base, and designs including dragons, to represent courage and royalty, and birds, that represent enlightenment. Thai parasols are a good choice to add color to your indoor living spaces. Constructed of paper or clothe, Thai parasols could only be carried by approval of the king of Siam and represented status for the common citizen. You can select the traditional round version in bold, solid colors, or the more striking square parisol for a great conservation starter.

Japanese parasols are enjoying a resurgence as the latest fashion trend among young women who are looking to recreate history and bring Asian umbrellas back. Formerly used by middle-aged and older Japanese women to shelter them from the sun, and preserve the white skin that was the standard of beauty, younger women are now sporting a jet black, more modern version. The spiral design is the most widely recognized style of Japanese umbrella, but more ornate patterns like lotus blossoms are also popular.

Popular Oriental Umbrellas

Chinese Cloth & Bamboo Parasol in Ivory	This fancy Chinese parasol of the genuine construction with the elegant bamboo shaft measures about 22" in length and 36" across the top when opened. Not only it is perfect for any occasion like a wedding or stylish party, but it is also a fully functional sun protecting umbrella. More...
Red Asian Parasol Umbrella	This small oriental parasol is handmade of wood, bamboo and red sheer gauze fabric. The stem is 15" in length and the canopy has 22" diameter. Such an eye-catching umbrella will be nice as for a wedding event, so as for some Asian theme decoration. More...
Japanese Geisha Paper Parasol	This gorgeous parasol will ideally complement any celebration in Asian style or Japanese traditional stage play. Actually, it may simply please your eyes as part of your home decor. The parasol has the 22" total height and its canopy is 35" wide. In spite of its beauty, this model isn't durable by its nature, as it is made of paper. More...
Chinese Paper Parasol	This distinctive rice paper parasol is painted with cherry blossoms in the traditional Chinese style. Its 33 inch canopy has the unusual scalloped shape, while its 25 inch bamboo shaft ends with a carved wood handle. More...
Spiral Paper Parasol	This bright parasol with the traditional Japanese spiral pattern has 33" diameter and 25" length. It is made of paper and bamboo materials and can be used as a nice and unusual sun shade. This item is available in assorted colors. More...