People from the South can usually be divided into two major stereotypes: Southern belles and rednecks. While the Southeast has a lot more to offer than fried chicken and sweet tea, I can see how this common misconception exists.
Southern belles still exhibit the traditions and style of the 1950s. The iconic A-line silhouette still flies off the shelves, even 70 years later. Bows and pearls can be found strewn across any Southern woman’s vanity. The polished style of the Southern belle is dramatically different from the LA-cool signature style of Southern California.
Now you might be thinking that Southern belles are stiff and conservative just like your Great Aunt Ida. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Nothing short of the epitome of class and grace, they display elegance without being posh.
Bows, bows and more bows! The classic belle mixes classic animal prints, such as cheetah and leopard, with simple silhouettes. Ruffles with bold statement colors and patterns showcase the belle’s elegance. They show their family pride and sophistication with monogramed purses, even on their backpacks.
But that doesn’t mean the Southern belle shies away from glitz and glamour. A sequined belt is sure to be found in every belle’s closest. Even though it’s near the Sunbelt, that doesn’t mean they are not all about fashion.
Contrary to popular belief, big hair doesn’t just exist in Texas. The East Coast is full of hairspray junkies who illustrate the phrase “the higher the hair, the closer to heaven.” With long, loose locks, belles keep their hair accessories to a minimum for daywear. But when the sun goes down, the sparkles come out. For evening, Southern women love jeweled headbands and embellished hair barrettes.
Detailed accessories elevate this simplistic style to chic. Colorful teardrop necklaces are a Southern staple. The perfect combination of a statement piece with basic accessories keep this Southern lady fresh and fashionable.
Southern comfort goes further than just the food. The women want to keep their chic look without risking a trip to the hospital from dehydration. Walking down the streets of Atlanta you find yellow, coral, navy and turquoise as the colors of the garment rainbow. The main reason for such loud colors is because they are printed on cotton, a very breathable fabric; belles are able to be chic even in the summer heat.
Embrace some Southern grace. Explore color combination instead of texture blending like a Southern Californian. Mix a bright turquoise tee with a sunny yellow full skirt, and finish it with a nude heel or ballet flat. I grew up in the South amid the rednecks and the Southern belles. While rednecks bring life to the party, belles portray the elegance and sweetness of the South. Southern belles will never go out of style yet will still keep up with the latest trends. I can see how this foreign idea could seem a bit much, but trust me, understanding the Southern belle style can help you dress for an interview or even meet your boyfriend’s parents. Stay classy.
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Follow Jacklyn Maza on Twitter: @jbizzmazzz
As published in the Oct. 31 issue of the Pepperdine Graphic.
