A lei is a garland or wreath common in Hawaii, across Polynesia, and the Philippines. More loosely defined, a lei is any series of objects strung together with the intent to be worn. Lei of various styles are given as gifts to honour people throughout the Pacific, being presented, for example, to visiting dignitaries, graduates, or to loved ones who are departing.
A fragrant lei of fresh pikake (Arabian jasmine)
A Lei hulu, made from feathers
The Wili method of making leis
U.S. President Lyndon Johnson wears lei while visiting Hawaii
A garland is a decorative braid, knot or wreath of flowers, leaves, or other material. Garlands can be worn on the head or around the neck, hung on an inanimate object, or laid in a place of cultural or religious importance.
Tinsel garlands on a Christmas tree
A daisy chain
Roman fresco of a woman with red hair wearing a garland (or chaplet) of olives, from Herculaneum, made sometime before the city's destruction in 79 AD by Mount Vesuvius (which also destroyed Pompeii).
Heavy flower garlands for sale in Chennai, India