The Modern Southern Belle

During the Antebellum Period, a Southern belle was a term used for the young, unmarried woman in the plantation-owning, upper class southern society. She was a flirty, girly, pulled-together beauty who was expected to to marry respectable young men, and become a lady of society dedicated to the family and community. 

Here we are 150 years later, and while much has changed in the south, you are sure to catch a glimpse of the 21st century rendition of a Southern belle at places like Cotillion, the Kentucky Derby, Churchill Downs and deep in the heart of the mississippi during an Ole' Miss football game. 

Most southerners today don't own plantations, but we still embody the spirit of the Southern belle.  We still want to be courted by a respectable gentleman, we  still strive to become a society woman and an upper tier socialite, and the thought of someday raising babies to wear matching smocked outfits on a daily basis while saying yes ma'am and no ma'am is as close to perfection as it gets.  

So next time you're heading out for tea, remember your sundress, heels, pearls and lipstick. And above all, smile, for being a Southern belle is a privilege.  

XOXO
LJ