Use and Symbolism
Young brides and virgins used to wear oya flowers such as roses, jasmin and violets; older women adorned themselves with a bent tulip. A girl in love conveyed her feelings by wearing oya of pink hyacinths, and one who expected her marriage to be an unhappy one would wear something called "pepper spice" oya.
Even the relationship between a future mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law could be expressed by oya. Meadow and grass boded well, whereas dark, somber flowers showed that the relationship might be a cold one. The list is endless.
Lace in the form of intricate flowers wrapped around the head is only one of many applications. Edgings adorn garments, scarfs, wraps and undergarments. Today, lace—often still handmade—is bordering curtains and drapes, towels and pillows.
Window blinds have a lace finish with tassels and throws and pillows are often made of patchwork, which is embroidered with sequins and gold thread. Curiously, not only emotions but also public figures and events are expressed by oya, as in the case of the "Atatürk Flower".