The fan is one of the world's oldest fashion accessories. Cleverly combining functional, ceremonial, and decorative uses, this elegant art form has found favor with polite society for over 3,000 years. Using a fan in its simplest form is a way to stay cool, but they've also been regarded as status symbols by royalty and the nobility, and still enjoy popularity amongst artists, actors, and celebrities today.
Open up the following gallery and read all about the fantastic history behind this timeless fashion icon.