January Kanzashi

January kanzashi are based on traditional winter foliage and symbols of the New Year.

Sho-chiku-bai- pine, bamboo and plum blossom- is an auspicious combination of plants noted for their survival in harsh weather. One or more of these motifs may be used, along with asters or winter chrysanthemums which are another common flower for January. The colourful blossoms stand out against the foliage, set off by metallic mizuhiki.
Arrangements of both flowers and leaves are topped with New Year decorations or celebratory motifs. Commonly-seen details are hagoita (battledore paddles) or sensu (folding fans) decorated with plum blossom, striped spinning wheels, and white cranes (cranes and sensu are general celebratory themes, so can be seen in other months). Unlike other months maiko wear similar arrangements regardless of rank. During the New Year period, both maiko and geisha wear an ear of rice as a hair ornament, decorated with a small white eyeless paper dove. The dove's eyes are later filled in for luck.

January floral arangements: Bouquet; bridge.
Not strictly a seasonal motif, this colourful pinwheel kanzashi is frequently worn by minarai and can be seen throughout the year. It is made in bright shibori fabric and decorated with tassels and bells.
Pinwheel arrangements: Single; triple; bridge.