<P> The Southern belle (derived from the French word belle,' beautiful') is a stock character representing a young woman of the American Deep South's upper socioeconomic class . </P> <P> The image of the Southern belle developed in the South during the antebellum era . It was based on the young, unmarried woman in the plantation - owning upper class of Southern society . </P> <P> The image of a Southern belle is often characterized by fashion elements such as a hoop skirt, a corset, pantalettes, a wide - brimmed straw hat, and gloves . As signs of tanning were considered working - class and unfashionable during this era, parasols and fans are also often represented . </P>

Where did the term southern belle come from