Metal Flower Hairpin

In the past, 'Mae Ying' or Lanna women tended to keep their hair long from childhood and won’t cut their hair, as it is believed that your soul (’ Kwan) is located on your head and should not be kept steady for life’s prosperity. The Hairbun hairstyle is, therefore, popular, using a hairpin or comb to tidy up the hair.

According to traditional Lanna and Tai-Laos belief, adorning flowers in your hair is an offering to your 32 souls (“kwan”), for good luck and protection.

The flower hairpin, known as “Dok Mai Wai,” is a traditional hair ornament of Lanna women. It is commonly made from brass, silver, or gold sheets and mimics various flowers. The spring is attached to the hairpin to induce movement when the wearer moves. This beautifully crafted hairpin is used to decorate a hair bun instead of fragrant fresh flowers on special occasions, especially for dancers performing the traditional dance ritual.

About the maker : 

Our folk craft master, Mae Kru Somjit Inthaya, lives in our neighborhood. Puak Tam area used to be a prosperous area for this craft, but now only a handful, including Mae Kru Somjit, still practice it.

Material : Metal