Page 102 - South Mississippi Living - July, 2026

SHOPPING
FOCUS ON FASHION
Properly Wearing
As our nation celebrates 250 years of freedom, retailers flood the market with red, white, and blue merchandise showcasing American pride and patriotism. Old Glory is prominently displayed and waves its colorful stars and stripes on clothing, accessories, and jewelry. All are visible statements of support for
our flag and its core values. Yet, while flag-themed fashion is currently
quite popular and prevalent, it begs an important
question: is it technically proper to wear designs
displaying the American flag?
Flag Fashion Etiquette
Most of us are familiar with the history, meaning, and
proper way to raise, lower, and fold the flag. We know
when and how it should be
displayed and that it should never touch the ground, but is
it a breach of etiquette to wear flag clothing? The answer lies in whether or not the item of clothing is constructed from an actual flag or is a replica design.
The American Legion has long been the go-to expert on all things “flag” and offers a clear perspective as follows:
“Unless an article of clothing is made from an actual United States flag, there is no breach of flag etiquette whatsoever. People are simply expressing their patriotism and love of
country by wearing an article of clothing that happens to be red, white, and blue with stars and stripes. There is nothing illegal about the wearing or use of those items.”
It should also be noted that the official U.S. Flag Code explicitly states that, “while the flag itself should never be used as clothing, wearing a T-shirt or accessory printed with a flag
design is generally accepted as a patriotic expression and is legally protected by the First Amendment.”
Intention, Occasion, and Best Practice
Though wearing flag apparel on holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day, is an expression of patriotism for many, there are others who are of the opinion that the flag
is a sacred symbol and should not be worn on items of clothing like socks or swimsuits that can get dirty or sit on the ground. Be aware and respectful of those opinions.
A simple, safe, proper and non-controversial guideline for wearing patriotic clothing is to always stick to “flag patterns,” never items cut from a real flag.
Beyond that, the occasion should
also be considered. For official events and ceremonies, flag lapel pins may be the best choice to avoid offending those with a strong, traditional view of flag display and etiquette.
102 | July 2026
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
story by Barbara Travis