Easter bonnets are stunning accessories that make your holiday attire look more like spring, especially if you’re having Easter brunch or attending church. Children look adorable in these hats too, and you can create one from the recyclables in your home. With a few items, you can turn an existing hat into an Easter eggstravaganza or you can start from scratch.

Why and when did we start wearing Easter bonnets? In 1948, Irving Berlin wrote, “In your Easter bonnet, with all the frills upon it/You’ll be the grandest gal in the Easter parade/I’ll be all in clover, and when they look us over/We’ll be the proudest couple in the Easter parade.” However, bonnets were worn before this, and their round shape was supposed to symbolize the sun while the leaves and flowers represented the coming of spring. The custom of wearing new clothes for Easter is connected to Christianity, specifically when Christians started white week and wore white robes to symbolize rebirth. As the Easter parades have continued over the years, the bonnets seem to get bigger and bigger.

If you would like to join in this old tradition, you can create an Easter bonnet with some materials in your home. For example, fresh cut or dried flowers and leaves from your backyard can enhance a basic bonnet. Also, extra holiday ribbon and decorations (bunnies and faux fruit, flowers or eggs) can finally be used.

Starting from scratch can be challenging, but as long as you have scissors and hot glue, you can probably create a masterpiece. Plastic containers can serve as a sturdy base, and you can cut it to mold to your head. Any beads or costume jewelry that has fallen apart over the years can be strategically added too. Also, felt and extra wire can turn your hat into a flower display.

Easter bonnet contest, anyone? An eco-friendly store that sells accessories and home décor called Treehouse is holding a handmade Easter bonnet contest for their community. So if you live in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, create the most amazing bonnet out of recycled items and submit it in their contest by Friday, April 10. Winners will receive a gift certificate and a store window display. Good luck!