Since ancient times, scarves have been considered a symbol of Ukrainian culture. Reflected in sayings, songs and paintings of artists, they have become a vivid image of national folklore. Traditional khustki had not only domestic, but also ritual significance. They served as a talisman against adversity and were an indispensable element of the wedding image.
The future wife wove and embroidered the Khustka with her own hands. When a girl gave a positive response to the matchmaking to the elders, she would definitely tie a scarf on the groom's sleeve. If, before marriage, girls could walk with their heads uncovered, then after marriage, this was not allowed. At the wedding, the future mother-in-law removed the wreath from the bride's head, and then tied the scarf in a special way. This rite marked a new family status and was one of the main ones at the wedding ceremony.
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A woman gave a hustka to a young man who was leaving for the war. In this way, she demonstrated love and loyalty. Scarves were of no less importance for the Cossack officers. They were not only decoration, but also demonstrated the wealth of the owner.
Handkerchiefs tied the hands of the priest and godfathers during the baptism of the baby. Banners and candles were decorated with Khusts at funerals. A scarf attached to the cross on the grave served as a symbol of dignity and courage.
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Most often, scarves were made in white. The amount of silk used and the thickness of the stitches indicated the wealth of the family. Craftsmen preferred threads of scarlet, yellow, blue, green and pink. Geometric ornament prevailed in the products: rhombuses, triangles and squares. In the 18th century plant motifs became relevant. The rarest patterns on ancient khusts are images of birds.
Today, elements of the Ukrainian national costume are again at the peak of popularity. You can buy unique authentic scarves on our website in
this section.
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