WELCOME TO An Entertainment Site for Scottish Country Dancers - Enjoy the curated selection of theme-related dances for celebrations and holidays, or find a dance associated with a special calendar day, or EVEN your own birthday!
No More Mundane Mondays
Jul 29
Other Scottish Country Dances for this Day
Today's Musings, History & Folklore
A Dancer's Dilemma
Should I wear paisley with tartan today?
Or keep them apart, in a more subtle way?
Paisley's a swirl, a psychedelic sight,
Tartan's all stripes, but ready for a fight.
Mix them together? Your mirror just grins,
"You'll look like a Scot on psychedelic spins!"
Your partners may whisper, "Oh my, what a sight!"
But dare what you wear, and dance through the night!
Brighten up your dancing Mondays and add a bit of swirling paisley to the warp and weft of your tartan! This 32 bar reel was devised to the tune of the same name! Characterized by its distinctive teardrop-shaped motif, Paisley is a timeless design that has traversed continents and centuries! Originating in Persia, where it was known as the "boteh" or "buta," the pattern symbolized life and eternity. It gained prominence in Western fashion during the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in the Scottish town of Paisley, from which it derives its name. Here, local weavers adapted the intricate designs brought back by British soldiers from India, making the pattern synonymous with high-quality textiles! My eyes! My eyes! ðĪŠ
Paisley Mondays
Paisley has carved a significant niche in the fashion world, evolving from its ancient roots to become a versatile and enduring pattern. Initially popularized in the West during the 18th and 19th centuries, paisley was synonymous with luxury and sophistication, adorning the opulent Kashmir shawls that were coveted by European aristocracy. As the Industrial Revolution made it possible to produce these intricate designs more affordably, the pattern spread beyond high society, infiltrating various fashion spheres.
In the 1960s, paisley experienced a resurgence as part of the psychedelic movement, with designers embracing its bold, swirling motifs to reflect the era's vibrant and experimental spirit. Iconic figures like The Beatles and Jimi Hendrix donned paisley attire, cementing its association with countercultural trends. In contemporary fashion, paisley continues to be a staple, appearing on everything from high-end designer collections to casual wear. Its versatility allows it to be reimagined in countless ways, whether through the rich, colorful fabrics of bohemian styles or the sleek, monochromatic interpretations seen on modern runways. The pattern's ability to transcend time and trends is a testament to its unique blend of tradition and innovation, making it a beloved choice for fashion designers and enthusiasts alike.
For a look a classic 1960s Paisley fashion, click below!
Click the dance cribs or description below to link to a printable version of the dance!
