Akha sub-groups identify themselves by the design of their head gear, and the status of the wearer is further differentiated by the extent of decoration. This example from the sub-group Loimi Akha, (named after a mountain in Burma from where they migrated), is also known as U Bya or 'Flat Headdress'. It consists of a cloth cap with a flat tin or aluminium-wrapped panel attached to the back, and rows of silver bosses sewn across the front. Glass beads, silver balls and discs, coins, monkey fur and red-dyed chicken feathers dangle from the sides. Today aluminium is frequently used as a substitute for the silver and other decorative materials which have greater market value.
