Take This As Your Sign To Wear More Paisley!

There is a reason—or plenty—why paisley has stood the test of time!

Mar 26, 2026
Paisley printGetty Images

The Paisley is one of the most celebrated motifs in the world of fashion. It is not only incredibly beautiful, but is also rich on heritage, and has a long history attached to its name. Paisley—or ‘ambi’ as it is commonly known—is said to have originated in Persia (modern-day Iran), and got popularised in the Mughal Era, particularly during the 16th-18th centuries, when it was being featured heavily in Kashmiri shawls. Besides having a rich history behind it, Paisley also has a symbolism attached to it. In some cultures, it is believed to symbolise fertility.


Today, the humble little motif is a part of our pop culture in more ways than one. We see it in clothes, accessories, jewellery, decor, even mehendi! While it is a simple motif with a shape that resembles a mango (hence the name ambi), it is often paired with intricate prints like mandala that gives it an earthy aesthetic.



While the motif is traditionally associated with the East, owing to its origin and aesthetic, the West also acknowledged the global appeal of Paisley over the time. To say that the motif has had a massive evolution would be an understatement. From its humble origin in Persia, to being featured on the runways of the likes of Chloé and Saint Laurent, the motif has had quite a journey. With an overtly bohemian aesthetic, Paisley is one of the mainstays for Etro.


Our Picks For The Coolest Pieces With Paisley To Buy Right Now

Sari, Rimzim DaduRimzim Dadu

Buy it at a Rimzim Dadu store

Paisley, but make it avant-garde!

Ruby Paisley Earcuffs, AmarisAmaris

Buy it here

Paisley earcuffs? Yes please!

Amra Hasli Bag, ÖzelÖzel

Buy it here

We don't know what we love about this bag the most—the paisley print, the fact that it's a mini bag, or the hasli handle!

Kurta, Ritu KumarRitu Kumar

Buy it here

While Ritu Kumar has a bunch of options to chose from if you love Paisley, there is something about this set that echos gravitas!

Juttis, 5 Elements5 Elements

Buy it here

Color-block Mary Janes with Paisley? Consider us obsessed!

Earrings, Sutra Fine JewellerySutra Fine Jewellery

Buy it here

How cute are these little pearl earrings with inverted paisley motifs!

Kurta set, ChrkhaChrkha

Buy it here

This beautiful set combines two of our favourite things ever: paisley and Rani pink!

Sari, EkayaEkaya

Buy it here

Impeccable craftsmanship combined with age-old motifs FTW!

Shoes, EtroFarfetch

Buy it here

The intricacy of this print? Love! Our pro-tip to instantly elevate a basic look would be a pair of heels like these!

Jacket set, Mrunalini RaoMrunalini Rao

Buy it here

This jacket set by Mrunalini Rao easy, effortless, and super stylish!





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