'', September 7, 1861 showing a Southern belle The image of a Southern belle is often characterized by fashion elements such as a
hoop skirt, a
corset,
pantalettes, a wide-brimmed
straw hat, and
gloves. As signs of
tanning were considered working-class and unfashionable during this era,
parasols and
fans are also often represented. For example,
Sallie Ward, who was born into the
planter class of
Kentucky in the Antebellum South, was called a Southern belle.
Dick Pope Sr., promoter of
Florida tourism, played an important role in popularizing the archetypal image. Hostesses at his famed
Cypress Gardens were portrayed as Southern belles in promotional materials for the
theme park. == See also ==