Parasol

Parasols, or umbrellas designed primarily to protect women from the sun, were an important female fashion accessory from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Over the years their shape and decoration became highly elaborate, and they were often made of silks and satins, embroidered and fringed. Ivory inlays and other decorative touches were used to accent handles. Parasols were still highly important in the late 19th century, but were generally abandoned in the early 20th century as women sought greater freedom in their clothing in general.