what is a mum homecoming

A homecoming mum is a large arrangement of ribbons, bells, charms, and a button sewn together and designed to be worn pinned to a womans dress or - if it is too large - worn around the neck like a ribbon. The tradition of homecoming mums began in Texas in the 1950s and 60s as a sweet Texan token of affection given to a girl by her date in honor of the high school homecoming football game and surrounding events. The mum is centered around a silk flower, with streaming ribbons, your name, the name of your date, and whatever other creative thing you like. The tradition has grown bigger and more extravagant over the years, with some mums costing upwards of $600. The gaudier the mum, the better, and the bigger it is, the more the giver loves you, the more school spirit you have, and the more popular you are. Nowadays, anyone can buy, make, and customize their own mum or garter, and there are shops that specialize in making mums and garters.