Sunday, June 22, 2014

In the Pink

"In the pink"...an expression that has been around for centuries. The general usage of the phrase has shifted somewhat since its inception. Most contribute its meaning to feeling good or in the best of health. That, however, is not how it got its start.

The earliest citations of 'in the pink' are from the 16th century and, at that time, the meaning was 'the very pinnacle of something', but not necessarily limited to health. The earliest example that I can find of pink being used with that meaning is from 1597 Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, 1597...
Source: Phrase Dictionary

So, what does this tidbit of information have to do with what's happenin'?

June 23rd is...

National Pink Day

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National Pink Day is a pinnacle of a day where everything should be basking in pink splendor! It's especially a day for the ladies, as pink is a girl's favorite color, but guys don't have to feel left out. Tough guys wear pink! Did you know 'pink for girls' and 'blue for boys' is NOT how color gender started?

A June 1918 article from the trade publication Earnshaw's Infants' Department said, “The generally accepted rule is pink for the boys, and blue for the girls. The reason is that pink, being a more decided and stronger color, is more suitable for the boy, while blue, which is more delicate and dainty, is prettier for the girl.”
Source: Smithsonian.com

Pink Tie and Tales

Victorian era sports teams used variants of pink. In the expansion of private (now public) schools in England, there was a great deal of competition for school uniforms to have pink trimming. Pink mother-of-pearl cufflinks were all the rage, as were pink cravats, even suits. Pink became associated with girls - little girls at that - in the 60s, since which time, men's fashions have included pink, like the 80s.

There is another connection to the color pink, a most important connection. Pink, symbolized by a pink ribbon, is aimed at raising breast cancer awareness. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month but an additional date has been added to the calendar for the aforementioned purpose. National Pink Day serves as a reminder to everyone about the importance of breast health and to encourage people to play an active role in raising awareness.

On National Pink Day, wear your favorite pink! But, the pink doesn't have to be centered on just what to wear. There are a plethora of choices, which below you will find a few complete with recipe or source links.