"Mums" the word, for Texas Homecoming

I was recently introduced to a southern high school homecoming tradition; the giving and wearing of "mums." Through casual conversation I learned that I should expect to see mums appearing in grocery stores for purchase. Naturally I assumed that mums were corsages that I'm used to seeing in the Northwest. That, however, is entirely incorrect. Mums are perhaps the ultimate manifestation of all that is truly gaudy and over the top in the South. 

You may think I'm exaggerating, but I think you may agree with me once you witness photographic evidence. As you see, mums consistent of literally reams of ribbons, bows and assorted trinkets. Mums are customized for the recipient, typically with the name of the wearer's date and possibly accented with school colors and activities the date or datee may be involved in. The male versions are, of course, entirely understated, worn on the upper arm and proceeding not much lower than the elbow. A lady mum, on the over hand, has it's own zip code. 

How much do these beauties cost? I'm told somewhere in the range of $80 per pop. Don't worry though, they're worn with pride and then preserved in boxes long into the wearer's adult years. Priceless. There are some things money can't buy, but apparently frivolous, tacky ribbon pom pom badges aren't among them.