American Flags

by Lauren Ragland

In the patriotic spirit of this month's Designer Monthly, "Little Things" is focusing on - what else! - the American flag.

Whether or not the flag is a measure of your patriotism depends on how you treat it. But many view their treatment of the flag as a measure of their aesthetics. In the last forty years, the American flag has been used as a fashion statement in various forms. It has been popular to have the red, white, and blue image adorn household products, clothes, and furniture. To protest governmental policies or to shock God-fearing patriots, many have plastered copies of the flag onto the seats of their jeans, or, to give Old Glory a sexy image, onto their hot pants.

But most fashion trends that are introduced to shock the general public soon grow tired and often become integrated into trendy street wear. By the 1990s, the American flag had become an advertising tool. PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) produced ads of a model robed in an American flag. Ralph Lauren placed the icon on T-shirts and sweaters. It was all for the sake of fashion.

Since September 11^th, the emphasis has changed from using the flag as a fashion accessory to using it to show solidarity as a country. Nationalism has been running especially high and this has been evident through the large number of people displaying the flag. Flying the flag above a car or a house, or pasting the flag on to windows has become very popular. Seeing Old Glory in large numbers produces a collective sense of patriotism for the country.

On the other hand, many have begun valuing the flag's function over its form. They have forgotten that they must take care of the flag in order to keep it looking stately, bright, and attractive. Around the country, flags are turning brown with mildew; they're wearing thin from the rain; some are torn from being thrashed about by violent winds. It's one thing to show your patriotism, but it's entirely different when your flag looks as though it was from a forgotten time - that singular moment when you decided to show your pride for your country.

Luckily, there's a code created by the government that decrees the proper treatment for the flag. This code lists approximately seventy-five different ways in which the American flag should be handled. It's unheard of for civilians to follow every single rule, but to adhering to the most important, and pertinent, rules is simple.

1. The flag should not be displayed twenty-four hours a day unless it is a national holiday.
   
2. It should not be left outside in inclement weather.
   
3. It should not touch the floor.

It's not just your duty to follow these rules. Practicing them will ensure that your flag won't become weathered and tattered and all together unattractive.

So, how do you approach clients who have forgotten these little things that can make a world of a difference to the outside appearance of their home? It's simple, and it doesn't involve presenting them with a new flag to replace the tattered red, white, and blue (very blue) one that currently droops in front of their home. It's similar to the manner in which you approach your clients on all of their aesthetic concerns - tell them how they can easily improve their home's appearance. Being open and honest will ensure a good working relationship. Plus, don't forget that they're looking to you for your knowledge and expertise. So don't be shy in lending it to them.

Begin by expressing to your client that their current flag detracts from the overall appearance of the home. Don't forget to inform them of its proper treatment. Of course, don't recite a rundown of the seventy-five rules listed in the flag code. Not surprisingly, they may find that excessive! Simply, make your client aware of the three most important guidelines that will keep the flag in tiptop form.

Now that the actual flag is flying bright, introduce your client to household accessories with the flag image that will surely liven up any setting in the summertime. Generally, these items are designed for outdoor use, such as having a barbecue. A plastic glass, plates, or paper napkins donning the Stars and Stripes add a festive mood. For indoors, a classic American item like a quilt with the flag on it will add a traditional, homey touch to a living room. Throw pillows create a similar mood. No matter how fashions change, the above pieces colored by the American flag will always evoke a sense of heritage and patriotism.

Now, as for the Stars and Stripes leather jacket, thank goodness that it isn't visible all year long and has to be taken off in the summertime.

Reprinted with permission from the Sheffield School of Design

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