In case you haven't heard, Texans are big into big. We like big hair, big bling, and big pageantry of all forms.
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Nowhere is this affinity for the big showcased more than at high school homecomings. For generations, Texas teenagers have been awkwardly asking one another to homecoming. Upon the agreement of a homecoming date, each partner must purchase or make what have now become known as "mumstrosities."
Originally, mums were simple corsages made from ribbons and a real chrysanthemum that girls' pinned to their dresses, but those days are long gone. Now they can weigh as much as 20 pounds, and are worn with a harness around the neck or across the chest. These enormous creations consist of multiple fake flowers, yards upon yards of ribbons, lights, bells, and some even play music.
The tradition likely began with another favorite Texan pastime: one-upping. Mums have always been a status symbol, and you could always tell how deep your date's love for you was depending on how enormous of a mum he bought (or asked his mom to make).
Regardless of how the tradition got out of control, it most certainly did, and to our great amusement. Here are some Texas homecoming mums that are absurdly gargantuan.
She'll need a step ladder to wear this one.
Seniors deserve special mums #homecoming2013 pic.twitter.com/cOlrYrd8jG
— Texas Mums (@dfwmums) August 30, 2013
As far as you know, the mum IS the dress.
Help us add to the internet's supply of homecoming mums by sharing yours with [email protected]! http://t.co/sE40LHy7wj pic.twitter.com/Z4z0CAmiBO
— NBC DFW (@NBCDFW) September 20, 2015
senior homecoming with these pretty girls and pretty mums 🙂 pic.twitter.com/YKxXhVoFze
— jen (@jennifern484) September 18, 2015
After the game, you can use your mum as a dress screen and change into your homecoming gown behind it.
Photo courtesy Mindy Kline
May the mum be with you.
Gotta love TX Homecoming Mums! MHS senior and Adopt an Athlete Jordan was a star today at HVE! @HV_Vikings pic.twitter.com/XWr8pSQ5OW
— Krista Brown (@krista_brown_) September 18, 2015
Holy mother of mum...
#homecomingmum #homecomingmums pic.twitter.com/MFct0nDRvF
— AmyBell38 (@Amybell1318) September 9, 2015
