Pineapples are not only a popular fruit to eat, we also see them used in home decor and fashion. Traditionally, a hostess’s ability to have a pineapple for an important dining event said as much about her rank as it did about her resourcefulness. In fact, the bumpy fruit was in such high demand that homeowners often rented them from the colonial confectionery stores and when they were done, the same fruit was then sold to more affluent clients who could afford to eat it! Today the pineapple remains the symbol of hospitality both in New England and many of the Southern states. It is the official symbol of the city of Newport, Rhode Island, where it has been a symbol of hospitality since the 1650s. Sea captains who returned from their long trade voyages placed these beautiful fruits outside their homes to encourage visitors and welcome guests. A strong love for pineapple continues today where we see it used in preppy fashion. From Alice + Olivia, the “Clyde” shift dress ($285) looks adorably sweet with its pineapple print.
