Trendlet: Fake septum rings
There is a fair amount of pinching, squeezing, pushing, and piercing in fashion. So it's understandable that, sometimes, we might want to fake it.
There is a fair amount of pinching, squeezing, pushing, and piercing in fashion. So it's understandable that, sometimes, we might want to fake it.
The trendlet
The fake septum ring mimics a true piercing of the cartilage between the nostrils. The most popular ring is the bull-like hoop. But faux versions also come as horizontal pins or horseshoes.
Where does it come from?
A pierced septum goes back to biblical times. Men (and women) in ancient civilizations wore them as the highest form of adornment. For some, it was a sign of wealth. And in warrior cultures, the nose ring - sometimes an animal bone, other times from a human enemy - was a way people appeared fierce and dangerous.
In the 1960s, hippies started wearing septum rings, and in the '70s and '80s, it was considered punk-rock chic. What's more rebellious than a hole through your nose?
In the last two years, Middle Eastern- and Asian-inspired clothes and accessories - like saris and silken, sheer midriff tops - have populated runways and store racks. These fashions, combined with a return to '80s rock looks and a general tone of irreverence on runways, have thrust the pierced septum into vogue.
Who's wearing it?
Hipsters who hoverboard or run start-ups are sporting the clip-on hoops during the day. Even Fortune 500 bankers are popping in the fakies - during their off-hours.
And, of course, your seriously edgy ladies in the spotlight:
FKA Twigs, Amber Rose, Rihanna, Zoe Kravitz, Lady Gaga, Willow Smith, Jessica Biel.
Would Elizabeth wear one?
How many ways can I say no?
Should you wear one?
Even if your pierced septum is not the real deal, you must commit to the bad-girl vibe you most certainly will be transmitting. If you have any reservations, don't attempt this look.