This is a Hawaiian lei of purple orchids. The flower lei is common in Hawaii, Polynesia and the Philippines. A flower lei is a series of flowers strung together that can be worn as a decoration. Various styles of flower lei are given as gifts in honor of people throughout the Pacific region, such as to present to guests, graduates or loved ones who are leaving away. The colorful lei became very popular due to the common practice of giving such to tourists arriving or departing Hawaii. Among Hawaiians, the most popular occasions to use lei are birthdays, graduations, weddings, funerals, retirement parties, and bridal showers. It is not uncommon for a high school or college graduate to be seen wearing a lei as well. Lei is usually made from many different flowers such as plumeria, tuberose, carnations, orchids and pikake. Maile leaves, ferns, and ti leaves are also extremely popular in traditional flower lei among Hawaiian hula dancers. This typical Hawaiian lei actually originates from the island of Tahiti.