Are bells still a thing in homecoming mums?

As homecoming mums in Texas evolved into something beyond a corsage in the second half of the 20th century, it became fashionable to include a bell or two or three (or more) in homecoming mum designs.

As a mumologist (a word I made up), I study the history and heritage of homecoming mums (a definition I made up). I’ve visited schools during homecoming day, and there’s nothing like the sound of bells—cowbells, sleigh bells, jingle bells, all the bells—jingling their way from one class to another. It’s hilarious and cheeky.

More cowbell

The tradition of including bells in homecoming mums most likely emerged an off-shoot of fans using cowbells and other noise makers at football games. Believe it or not, cowbells at football games date back to at least the 1930s, most famously at Mississippi State University. Click here to learn about the evolution of cowbells as a school spirit item.

Today, just like everything else related to homecoming mums in Texas, the inclusion of bells (yes, even cowbells) in the design of a mum is completely up to the person who’s wearing it and the person who’s making it.

Mostly.

photo by Amy J. Schultz

Silencing the bells

Bells in homecoming mums can be very noisy, which has given them a bad reputation at some high schools in Texas. Some school administrators have gone so far as to ban bells in homecoming mums and garters, or at least require the “clackers” to remain silent during the school day.

While I do understand these restrictions, the notion of homecoming mums that don’t jingle bums me out a little. I will never forget the first time a high school senior let me try on her homecoming mum. Moving around in a giant mum is like nothing else, but honestly, the sound of the bells are what really stuck with me. So. Dang. Fun.

What’s trending?

When it comes to what’s trending in homecoming mum design in any given year, my job is not to answer questions but to ask them. For today’s question, I called upon these mumtrepreneurs (another word I made up) who have built businesses on successfully predicting and responding to consumer demands. They are all members of the public Facebook group created by Pamela Carrillo called Texas Homecoming Mums & Garters !!

Here’s what they have to say about the use of bells in today’s homecoming mums.

From the experts

Bells make a mum IMO! Traditional is best for me!
—Kathy J.

My daughter still like lots of bells. But, mums I have made for others have no bells. It depends on the person and if the schools allows bells.
—Loretta Z.

I add bells and put tape on the clackers, which dulls the noise when the student wears it to school. Then before the game the students can remove them, and you’re ready to go! This year. I also put them on a little keychain clip or add a loop in the ribbon for the student to clip the bells in and out as needed.
— Marie G.

Bells aren’t very popular in my area. Now, I only include them if specifically requested.
—Amber G.

I still use jingle bells.
—Crystal G.

Bells are not a thing in our area. Students are not allowed to wear them during school if they have noise makers. That's why I put my acrylics close together to make noise and not get the kiddo in trouble.
—The Left-Handed Mummer

I use them, ‘cause I like to decorate them. The more bling the better!
—Courtney F.

Our schools don't allow bells. Since we like them, I made the ribbon in a way that the students can attach the bells after school and before the game.
—Phylicia R.

I use all types of bells!!
—Amy D.

I use them, but it’s really only for visual interest. Our school makes the kids have the clackers taped down.
—Rachel GC

For some students, yes. We have one school in our area that doesn’t allow them.
—Sandy R.

Heck yeah bells! Unless a school doesn’t allow them. Check with the school!
—Tabby N.

I stopped adding bells years ago. The trinkets and garlands make enough of a jingle. I have a few bells stashed away in case anyone asks for them.
—Mallory D.

Most schools in our area make you stuff them, or they'll cut them off.
—Made U Mum TX

I have had kiddos ask for no bells.
—Christy K.

I will never NOT put bells on a mum. I think they're the best part. Lol.
—Chastin D.

Finally, a thought from a high school senior about going all out for your senior year.

Senior mums are huge! That’s when you put on all the bells and whistles, and all the lights. It’s an excuse to kind of dress up and have fun.
—Jenna J., senior