The Colleen Dress

In my desperate attempt to earn whatever scholarship money I could before college, I awkwardly entered myself in the local 'Colleen Pageant.' This event is an annual tradition in the region where I grew up, and awards one high school senior girl of Irish descent a scholarship, a trip to Ireland, and top billing on the most important St. Patrick's Day float, for her academic excellence, community outreach, and dedication to her Irish heritage. Sarcastic and sporty, I was hardly the pag... More

In my desperate attempt to earn whatever scholarship money I could before college, I awkwardly entered myself in the local 'Colleen Pageant.' This event is an annual tradition in the region where I grew up, and awards one high school senior girl of Irish descent a scholarship, a trip to Ireland, and top billing on the most important St. Patrick's Day float, for her academic excellence, community outreach, and dedication to her Irish heritage. Sarcastic and sporty, I was hardly the pageant type - especially when you threw in that I was barely an 1/8th Irish and had a very Greek last name. But I qualified, and asked myself, "Why not?" I wish I could tell you that I strutted confidently on stage in my beautiful green gown only to answer the question I chose out of a hat with flawless eloquence. However, I donned a long emerald velvet dress that was much too old for my seventeen year old self while squeamishly stumbling over my answer, so I was not chosen to be the girl atop the St. Patty's Day float. When I spotted this vibrant kelly green frock, I couldn't help but fondly remember those terrifying moments when I attempted to answer what three things I would take with me if I found myself stranded on a deserted island. With feminine ruffled detailing to accent its deep V-neck and a detachable belt tied sweetly in a side bow, this alluring dress will become my go-to March 17th attire. With a gold charm and light shrug, I'll proudly wear this delightful dress, and finally feel confident in the knowledge of who I am and where I've come from. By Max and Cleo. -Sarah, Fashion Writer