A homecoming mum is a large, elaborate chrysanthemum corsage that is traditionally given to high school girls by their dates to wear to homecoming dances. Mums are typically made with a variety of materials, including ribbons, beads, trinkets, and other decorations. They can be quite large and heavy, and often require a special harness to wear.
The tradition of giving homecoming mums dates back to the early 1900s. The first mums were simple corsages made of a few flowers and ribbons. Over time, mums became more elaborate, and by the 1950s, they had become the elaborate creations that we see today. Mums are now a popular tradition at homecoming dances all across the United States.