Welcome to Elaho's Cultural Flower Dance!
This mod changes the sprites and portraits for all vanilla-based characters for the Flower Dance Festival, adding different traditional cultural clothing, hairstyles, and flowers. Each traditional outfit has been infused with the traditional Flower Dance colours of blue and white, as well as the pairing of blue and white flowers alongside regional/national flower accessories.
This mod is a continuation of my Cultural Mod series and each character has been given a national/cultural/ethnic background based on a variety of factors, including personality, physical appearance, names/surnames, and other in-game hints and easter eggs. The goal of this project has been to explore the rich depth and beauty of different peoples and cultures from across the world, as well as bring people closer together through the wonderful world of culture.
A full list of each character and their cultural/ethnic heritage is provided below. Please click the "spoilers" button if you're curious to know more about the choice of background for each character, as well as interesting details on each outfit and Flower Dance alterations.
**This mod IS compatible with Poltergeister's Slightly Cuter Aesthetic mod. It's also compatible with SVE, though the portraits and sprites for Marlon won't appear (since he's made an official NPC in SVE). Marlon's SVE portraits and sprites will be added in another mod.**
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AUTHOR'S NOTE:
This mod may be considered offensive or controversial to some.
Not everyone will agree with the choices I've made for this cultural mod series. However, my goal has always been to inspire hope, healing, and foster people coming together -- regardless of cultural, political, national, and/or racial history, etc.
After careful deliberation, I've made the difficult decision to disable the comments section of this mod. I understand that I've ruffled some feathers and made some people upset, but given the current state of affairs, I believe it is necessary. Not everyone will be happy with the choices I've made for this mod and some hurt feelings will arise because of it. I'm well aware of that and anticipated it.
Everyone has a right to their feelings, but I've chosen not to allow abusive or politically charged comments to remain in the comments section. I've made my stance clear as a mod creator and expect others to respect it (even if they don't agree). Arguing in the comments section creates a toxic atmosphere that I don't want to permeate into the mod itself, whether that is between myself or others.
Civil discourse about these matters is certainly important, but I believe those conversations are best had outside of the comments section altogether, which is why I have disabled it.
-Elaho
Character Cultural Backgrounds:
Abigail - Spanish (Spain) + ??? (paternity left uncertain)
Caroline - Spanish (Spain) (Murcia region)
Pierre - French (Wissembourg region)
Alex - Yiddish + German - maternal grandparent lineage only
Evelyn - Yiddish (Jewish-German)
George - German (Bavaria)
Kent - Norwegian (South-East Norway)
Jodi - Icelandic
Sam - Norwegian + Icelandic
Vincent - Norwegian + Icelandic
Penny - Irish + ??? (paternity left uncertain)
Pam - Irish (County Down, Northern Ireland)
Clint - Swiss (Berner Mutz, Bern Canton)
Marlon - Latvian (Skilbani, North Latgale)
Lewis - Greek (Ikaria Island)
Willy - Irish (County Donegal)
Elliott- Scottish (Clan Lockhart)
Leah - Polish (Podhale region)
Harvey - Hungarian (Transylvanian Saxon)
Gus - Italian (Sicily)
Robin - Dutch (Urk Village, Flevoland region)
*Sebastian - Dutch + Romanian OR Dutch + Vietnamese (*depending on player configuration)
-- Please Note: Sebastian will only wear his fusion outfits if the "Sebastian Immersive Wedding" mod is installed. If the mod is not installed, Sebastian will only wear his Dutch traditional outfit to the flower dance even when married.)
Demetrius - Xhosa + Twsana (Xhosa traditional outfit)
Maru - Dutch + Xhosa
Emily - Russian + Ukrainian (Ukrainian traditional outfit)
Haley - Russian + Ukrainian (Russian traditional outfit)
-- Please Note: Haley will only wear the Flower Crown when she is single or divorced. She will wear a golden tiara instead when she is married.
Shane - Georgian (the country Georgia)
Marnie - Armenian
Jas - Afro-Caribbean (Bahamian) + Anglo-Saxon (English)
Linus - ???
Leo - ???
See below for more info!
Caroline + Abigail
I chose a Spanish background for Caroline (and Abigail) not only for Abigail's black dress in my cultural wedding mod, but also because of the hints and easter eggs revealed about Caroline and her family throughout the game.
Caroline loves hot weather and tropical food (favourite gifts: Summer Spangle, Tropical Curry), asks for tropical food ingredients on the Special Orders Board, has a sunroom where she cultivates her own garden, and has a tan complexion. But the most telling indicator of Caroline's Spanish background is what Emily says during her 6-heart event:
"I haven't been this sweaty since I ordered the pepper platter at Abigail's graduation fiesta!"
Outfits and Flowers
I chose the region of Murcia for Caroline's background because of its proximity to the ocean as well as its hot tropical climate. The dress Caroline wears is traditional to Murcia, with Abigail wearing one of Caroline's hand-me-downs from when she was younger.
The national flower of Spain is the Red Carnation, which both Caroline and Abigail wear in their hair paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Spanish Blue Bells. While also part of the traditional Murican dress, their white embroidered aprons and blouses are a homage to the traditional white Flower Dance dress in the Vanilla game.
Abigail's paternity has been left intentionally ambiguous in this mod (so far), so she is only wearing traditional Spanish clothing and flowers.
Pierre
Choosing a French background for Pierre was a little more straightforward. The name "Pierre" means "Peter" in French, and Pierre's emphasis on quality over quantity is very much reminiscent of the French core value of "Joie de Vive" (Zest for Life).
Outfit and Flowers
The suit Pierre wears is traditional to the Wissembourg region of France which borders Germany. The national flower of France is the "Fleur-de-Lis" (Iris), which Pierre has paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Blue Pimpernel on his hat and boutonniere. While also traditional to Wissembourg, the blue vest Pierre is wearing is a homage to the traditional blue Flower Dance suit.
Alex + Evelyn (and Clara)
I decided to give Alex a mixed-Jewish background because of the strong relationship he had with his mother, Clara. Jewish lineage is Matrilinial, meaning someone is (officially?) considered Jewish if their mother is Jewish, and so on. This would mean Alex, Evelyn, and Clara would all be considered Jewish, even if their fathers were not.
Alex's lineage hasn't been canonically confirmed, but I thought it would be a very sweet and wholesome touch to Alex's character and give his family's story a little more depth by giving him a mixed-Jewish background. This is the main reason why I chose Alex and Evelyn to be Yiddish (Jewish-German).
Outfit and Flowers
The outfit Alex is wearing is a modern formal vest and bowtie with a traditional Jewish skull cap (Yarmulke or Kippah). Alex is also wearing both the national flowers of Israel (Anemonie) and Germany (Cornflower or Bachelor's Button), along with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and blue Forget-Me-Nots. Alex's vest is blue in homage to the traditional blue Flower Dance suit.
Evelyn is wearing a modern white dress with a blue headscarf/head covering. The flower she is wearing is the national flower of Israel (Anemonie), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and blue Oriental Burgle (an Israeli wildflower). She is also wearing a purple Lilac brooch in honour of her late daughter, Clara.
**BONUS**
I've added some (optional) Yiddish terms of endearment to Evelyn's dialogue. She will say the player can call her "Bubbie" (Granny) if they'd like and will call the player "bubala" (dear, darling, sweetie, etc.) in her dialogue after her introduction. This option can be toggled on or off in the "config file". (Currently only for Vanilla dialogue only).
George
George's background was very easy to determine. His full name is George Mullner, which is Bavarian German in origin. ("Mullner" translates to "Miller" in English). George's cannon background was also part of the reason I chose his wife Evelyn to be Yiddish (Jewish-German).
Outfit and Flowers
George is wearing the traditional Bavarian Lederhosen along with a "Tirolerhüte" cap and goat hair tuft. Traditional Lederhosen is made of leather, but George is wearing a fabric-style blue Lederhosen in homage to the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. The national flower of Germany is the Cornflower (or Bachelor's Button), which George is wearing with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and blue Forget-Me-Not flowers in honour of his late daughter, Clara.
Sam, Vincent, and Kent
Giving Kent, Sam, and Vincent a Norwegian background seemed to be the perfect fit for their family. Looking at not only the physical traits of the men in Sam's family (tall, blond hair, etc.) but also their character traits (i.e. independent yet loyal, placing a high value on family, being exceptionally good at music, etc.), I thought giving them a Norwegian background would suit them really well.
They also have a nautical theme to their house (blue colour, boat wheel, anchor flag, etc.), so giving them a seafaring ancestry like Norwegian seemed perfect.
Outfit and Flowers
The outfit Kent is wearing is a traditional Romerike-style Bunad from South-Eastern Norway. The national flower of Norway is the
Bergfrue (Pyramidal Saxifrage), which Kent has paired with Hestehov (Coltsfoot), Baby's Breath (Gypsophila), and Blåveis (Liverleaf) on his hat and boutonniere. Though not necessarily a traditional colour, I've given Kent a blue Bunad vest and blue stocking tassels in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit.
Sam and Vincent are also wearing Bunads, which are hand-me-downs from Kent. In addition to wearing Bergfrue flowers, Sam and Vincent are also wearing Holtasoley (Mountain Avens), Baby's Breath (Gypsophila), Harebells, and Blåveis (Liverleaf) on their outfits. Though not necessarily traditional colours, I've also given Sam and Vincent blue Bunad vests and blue stocking tassels in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit.
Jodi
I wasn't certain which background to give Jodi at first, since I was debating on whether she should also be Norwegian or from another national background. After giving it some thought and doing some digging, I decided to give her an Icelandic heritage. Not only is Iceland relatively close to Norway in geography, but it also shares a nautical history and shared ancestral background (Vikings).
In addition to this, I noticed small elf decorations on the outside of their house in the Fall. Elves play an important role in Icelandic history and culture, so much so that they even have small houses for the Huldufólk (Elves) to reside in throughout the country. So I thought giving Jodi an Icelandic background would be perfect for her.
Outfit and Flowers
Jodi is wearing a traditional 20th-century Icelandic dress called a "Upphlutur", which she has paired with Iceland's national flower (Holtasoley), Baby's Breath (Gypsophila), and Harebells in both her hair and wrist corsage. Though not a traditional colour, I gave Jodi an embroidered white apron in honour of the traditional white Flower Dance dress.
Penny + Pam
It was a little tricky giving Pam and Penny an Irish background, given the harmful stereotypes surrounding Irish people and alcoholism. However, after giving it a lot of thought, and considering both of their personalities and character journeys in the game, I decided it was the right choice to make (see FAQ below for more details).
Penny has flaming red hair and emerald eyes, fair skin, a love of emeralds and potatoes (roots platter), and a sweet, gentle personality. Pam, on the other hand, while struggling not to overindulge in alcohol, has a sincere appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in producing quality beer, ale, and other alcoholic beverages. Some of her best gifts are Mead, Beer, and Pale Ale, and she also shares a love of potatoes and other root vegetables (Glazed Yams and Parsnips) with her daughter Penny.
I've also decided to give Pam the last name/clan name "Campbell", which originates from County Down in Northern Ireland. The name Campbell means "crooked mouth" or "liar" in Gaelic, hinting at Pam's broken promises and inability to come through for her daughter, Penny. County Down has a specific tartan pattern that will be used in later mods for both Penny and Pam.
Outfit and Flowers
Both Penny and Pam are wearing traditional 17th-century Irish Shinrone gowns with white Leine chemises ( while traditionally white, the chemises are also white in honour of the traditional white Flower Dance dress). In their hair is the national flower of Ireland (Shamrock/Clover) paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and blue Hyacinth.
Penny's paternal heritage hasn't been decided yet. Penny still has a lot of pain left to process from her father's abandonment, so I don't think she would be interested in or ready to display her paternal background to the world (just yet). However, I might give more insight into Penny's father in another mod.
Clint
Deciding on a background for Clint took some time. He doesn't have much of a personality outside of his job and (slightly weird) obsession with Emily. Thinking about him a bit more, though, he does seem to enjoy indulging in rich foods (Artichoke Dip, Risotto, Fries, and Stardrop Sorbet) and though he doesn't particularly enjoy doing it, he does show an extremely high level of quality and craftsmanship in his blacksmithing.
The Swiss are dedicated to not only tradition but also quality craftsmanship that is known and respected worldwide (i.e. Swiss Army Knives, Swiss watches, Swiss chocolate, Swiss cheese, etc.). Clint may not particularly enjoy the specifics of his work, but he does take pride in maintaining the quality and craftsmanship associated with his trade.
Outfit and Flowers
Clint is wearing a traditional Swiss outfit from the Bern Canton of Switzerland (Berner-Mutz, specifically). Though the trim on his jacket is traditionally supposed to be red, I changed it to blue in homage to the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. Clint is also wearing the national flower of Switzerland (Edelweiss), which he's paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and blue Gentians.
Marlon
Marlon is a mysterious guy. Not much is known about him other than he's a monster hunter and Adventurers Guild member. He doesn't have any favourite gifts and we can only interact with him a few times while at Festivals or in the Guild. He's a really difficult person to read, simply because we know so little about him as a character.
That being said, I chose Latvia for Marlon's national background because, in all honesty, most people in North America don't know that much about Latvia. Aside from what we may have learned in Geography class about the Baltic States, and/or if we don't have Baltic backgrounds ourselves, most of us know relatively little about Latvia as a nation.
Having looked at the general character of the Latvian people, however, seemed to confirm it even more as my choice for Marlon: reserved, self-reliant, independent and persistent. And while they may not be gregarious, the Latvian people are also incredibly friendly and eager to help those in need-- traits I think Marlon embodies well.
Outfit and Flowers
Marlon is wearing a traditional Latvian outfit from Skilbani in North Latgale. Though not traditional, I gave him a blue cape and waist sash in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. The national flower of Lativa is the Daisy, which Marlon is wearing paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Germander Speedwell.
Lewis
Choosing a background for Lewis was also challenging, but after looking into his likes (vegetable dishes, coconuts, cactus fruit, and hot peppers) as well as his personality and character story, I thought giving him a Greek background would be a good fit. Greek dishes feature many of the vegetables that Lewis loves in his own favourites (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers) and community is very important to Greek culture -- and Lewis is the mayor of Pelican Town, after all!
And while doing some more research into Greece, I found the perfect place for Lewis to be descended from...
Outfit and Flowers
Lewis is wearing traditional clothing from the Greek isle of Ikaria, named after the mythological figure Icarus after he was believed to have crash-landed nearby. Traditionally, the vest would be black in colour, but I've changed it to blue in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. The national flower of Greece is Bear's Breech, which Lewis has paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Greek Valerian.
Willy
Willy's background was very easy to pick. He has a strong Irish brogue (accent), wears a traditional Kerry cap, smokes a traditional clay pipe (Dúidín), and has a deep love of the ocean and fishing. It would make total sense for Willy to be from Ireland, or at the very least, closely connected to his Irish heritage.
County Donegal was chosen for Willy due to its strong maritime fishing tradition, harsh rugged coastline, and proximity to the ocean. I've chosen the clan name/surname "McGinley" for Willy (William McGinley) as the people of the McGinley Clan have often made an impact in the world in a quiet, unassuming, laid-back way -- very much like Willy has for the player and community of Pelican Town.
Outfit and Flowers
Willy is wearing a traditional County Donegal Irish tartan in the Great Kilt style along with a blue Tam cap. The Donegal Tartan was also chosen for Willy because of the blue colour within the tartan pattern (in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit). He's also wearing the national flower of Ireland (Shamrock/Clover), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and blue Hyacinth.
Elliott
Elliott is a really interesting character and I wanted to give his cultural background a little more depth.
The Scots are known for being a rugged, robust people, and thinking more about Elliott's love of historical dress, interest in classical works of art, rugged features, and long red hair, I thought making his family/ancestry Scottish would suit him really well.
The Clan Lockhart was chosen for Elliott because of its romantic-sounding name (the Lockhart clan motto is "I open locked hearts") and because its (modern) tartan weave features red and green, colours Elliott wears in his vanilla sprite design.
Outfit and Flowers
Elliott is wearing the Clan Lockhart Ancient Tartan in the Highland Dress style, as well as a blue Prince Charlie jacket and waistcoat in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. He's also wearing the national flower of Scottland (Thistle), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Scottish Heather.
Leah
Leah is someone with a strong passion for art and a deep connection to the natural world. Thinking of how creative she is, and how she tries to incorporate nature into whatever she makes, I thought giving her a Podhalanian Polish (Gorale) heritage was the right fit for her. The Gorale people are strongly connected to tradition and the natural world around them and thoughtfully pour their love of nature, art, and heritage into everything they make.
Outfit and Flowers
Leah is wearing a traditional Gorale outfit from the Podhale region of the Polish Highlands. While also traditional, her white blouse is in honour of the traditional white Flower Dance dress. She's also wearing the national flower of Poland (Poppy), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Chicory.
Harvey
The Hungarian people are known for being friendly, polite, and open-minded, but also a little reserved when just getting to know them. However, deep beneath the surface, they are extremely dedicated and devoted to the people and things they care about. When first meeting Harvey, he comes across as being rather timid, shy, and reserved (if not a little boring); however, after getting to know him, he is a deeply passionate, loyal, and devoted person with big dreams and an even bigger heart.
After doing some more research into Hungary, its geography, and its diverse migratory history, I've chosen to give Harvey a Transylvanian Saxon background.
Outfit and Flowers
Harvey is wearing a traditional Transylvanian Saxon outfit from the south region of Transylvania, Hungary. Though the shirt embroidery and necktie are traditionally black, I've changed them to blue in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. He's also wearing the national flower of Hungary (Tulip - red for love), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Corn Speedwell.
Gus
It was very easy to give Gus an Italian background. Not only does he look like Mario (from Super Mario Bros), but he also embodies the essence of the Italian spirit: he cares deeply for his community by not only providing quality food and drink in his Saloon, but he also has a huge heart: he caters all the festivals and events Pelican Town, extends tabs payments to his customers (Pam), provides a non-judgemental ear to people who need it, and makes sure the people in his community are generally happy.
Outfit and Flowers
Gus is wearing a traditional outfit from the Sicily region of Italy. Though the necktie and cap pompom are traditionally red, I've changed them to blue in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. He's also wearing the national flower of Italy (White Lily), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Italian Bugloss.
Robin
The choice of a Dutch background for Robin was a little more personal for me. My grandfather immigrated from the Netherlands when he was 18, and when I look at Robin as a character, I see a lot of my Dutch ancestry and family in her (tall with red hair, fair skin, unique facial structure, etc.) Not only did I see a lot of my Dutch family in her physical appearance, but also in her love of woodcarving (Dutch wooden clogs) and cheese (Gouda), but in a major hint/easter eggs planted right outside her house -- an orange tulip growing in the summer (both the Dutch national flower and colour).
I chose Robin's family to originate from the fishing village of Urk in the Flevoland region of the Netherlands. I wanted Robin (and her son, Sebastian), to have a connection to the ocean (and therefore connect Sebastian's heritage with his love of Sashimi -- raw herring is a delicacy in the Netherlands, after all!), but also showcase some of the vast diversity of Dutch national outfits throughout the country.
Outfit and Flowers
Robin is wearing a traditional outfit from Urk Village with Dutch wooden clogs and a black-based bonnet (meaning she's a married woman). Though the traditional Urk skirt is black, I've changed it to white as a homage to the traditional white Flower Dance dress.
There wasn't enough room to add an orange tulip to Robin's outfit (the national flower and colour of the Netherlands), but I have given Robin three Lily of the Valley flowers in her hair (one each for her husband and two children), along Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Lithodora.
Sebastian
Though Sebastian doesn't resemble his mom Robin much in his physical appearance (besides his fair skin), he does still share her Dutch ancestry. Though eating raw fish is commonly associated with Southeast Asian culture, the Dutch also enjoy eating raw fish - particularly raw herring, which is a national delicacy. I chose Robin's family to originate from the fishing village of Urk in the Netherlands to connect Sebastian's heritage with his personal love of Sashimi.
And while there may not be a genetic connection between Sebastian's hatred of eggs and egg intolerance, I found it interesting that I also have an intolerance to egg-heavy dishes as well (i.e. scrambled eggs, fried eggs, egg-fried rice, etc.).
Outfit and Flowers
Sebastian is wearing a traditional outfit from the fishing village of Urk along with Dutch wooden clogs and braided hair (the Dutch love braids!). Though the traditional Urk outfit has a black neckerchief and black pants, I've changed them to blue as a homage to the traditional blue Flower Dance suit. He's also wearing the national flower and colour of the Netherlands (Orange Tulip), which has been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Lithodora.
**BONUS** Requires "Sebastian Immersive Wedding Mod"
There are two bonus sprites and portraits that Sebastian will wear depending on 1.) config file and 2.) having Sebastian's Immersive Wedding mod installed.
Sebastian - Dutch-Romanian (config option)
After marriage, Sebastian will wear a Dutch-Romanian fusion outfit to the Flower Dance. I initially chose a Romanian background for Sebastian because of the historical/mythological origins of the Strigoi (vampires) and Sebastian’s interest and fascination with the dark and gloomy, but not only for this reason.
The Romanian people are very proud of who they are. Even though they can (seemingly) complain about everything, they have a deep love for family, food, and tradition. On the surface, Sebastian can seem like a detached, uninterested loner, but even amidst family and personal problems, deep within him is still a strong sense of personal and familial pride.
Sebastian - Dutch-Vietnamese (config option)
After marriage, Sebastian will wear a Dutch-Vietnamese fusion outfit to the Flower Dance. I initially chose a Romanian background for Sebastian when I was making his wedding mod when someone sweetly reached out to me with the idea of Sebastian’s father being Asian or Southeast Asian. I had already completed Sebastian’s Dutch-Romanian outfit at this time, but I liked the idea so much, that I decided to include a Dutch-Southeast Asian option for Sebastian in all my cultural mods!
In the end, decided on a Vietnamese background for Sebastian out of inspiration from Diverse Stardew Valley’s Sebastian mod, as well as out of appreciation for my close friend Judy.
Demetrius
Perhaps the most 'controversial' of the marriage pairs (given the history between the Dutch and Xhosa/Tswana people of South Africa), I've decided to give Demetrius a Xhosa-Tswana ancestry and his wife Robin Dutch ancestry- making their daughter Maru a combination of both. Because, in all reality, the only thing that really keeps people apart is geography - not politics, history, or race.
I also wanted to give Demetrius a Xhosa-Tswana background in honour of Nelson Mandela, as well as have his daughter Maru be connected to her Tswanan grandmother through her name (the name "Maru" means "Clouds" in Tswana).
Outfit and Flowers
Demetrius is wearing a traditional Xhosa outfit with modern blue fabric (in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit). He's also wearing Vygies (South African wildflowers), which have been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Cape-forget-me-nots.
Maru
For this cultural mod series, I've decided to give Robin a Dutch ancestry and Demetrius a Xhosa-Tswana ancestry- making Maru a combination of both. Perhaps the most 'controversial' of the marriage pairs (given the history between the Dutch and Xhosa/Tswana people of South Africa); but, in all reality, the only thing that keeps people apart is geography - not politics, history, or race.
I wanted Maru to embody the best of both her parents and ancestors by giving her a fusion of both Dutch and Xhosa traditions. And I think she would want to embody all that she is at the Flower Dance as well. (Fun fact: Maru means "clouds" in Tswana, and I thought that was a perfect fit for her heritage- Maru is always thinking and inventing new things, with her 'head in the clouds,' gazing at the stars above.)
Outfit and Flowers
Maru is wearing a fusion of both Dutch and Xhosa traditional outfits. She's wearing a hand-me-down Urk dress from Robin, which has been embroidered with red and yellow beads on the hems, and Dutch wooden clogs. She's also wearing a traditional Xhosa Black isicholo (headdress), adorned with yellowish-white beads, as well as braided hair extensions. She's also adorned her headdress with a combination of Vygies and Lily-of-the-Valley, which have been paired with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila), Cape-forget-me-nots, and Lithodora.
Emily
I chose a Russian and Ukrainian background for Haley and Emily's family but decided to have Emily be more closely connected to the Ukrainian side of her heritage (which is a common feeling in a mixed-ancestry family). I've decided to have her wear mainly traditional Ukrainian clothing to the Flower Dance, but with some Russian flare mixed in as well (since her Vanilla colour scheme matches the Russian flag- white, red, and blue).
Thinking of how meticulous and detailed Ukrainian traditional outfits are, and how much is prepared by each person themselves (which sometimes takes years to make!), I thought giving Emily a traditional Ukrainian dress for the Flower Dance would suit her really well.
Outfit and Flowers
Emily is wearing a traditional Ukrainian outfit adorned with numerous jewels and gems, including rings, necklaces, and bracelets. While also traditional, Emily's white dress is a homage to the traditional white Flower Dance dress. She also has ribbons in her hair in both Ukrainian and Russian flag colours (Yellow, Light Blue, White, Red, and Dark Blue), along with both the Ukrainian and Russian national flowers (Sunflower and Chamomile), Baby's Breath (Gypsophila), and Siberian Squill.
Haley
I chose a Russian and Ukrainian background for Haley and Emily's family but decided to have Haley be more closely connected to the Russian side of her heritage (which is a common feeling in a mixed-ancestry family). I've decided to have her wear mainly traditional Russian clothing to the Flower Dance, but with some Ukrainian flare mixed in as well (since her Vanilla colour scheme matches the Ukrainian flag- yellow and blue).
Haley isn't the kind of character I'd normally think of as being super into family traditions, being the modern fashionista she is. But, thinking of how much she cared about losing her grandmother's bracelet, I think she would want to find some kind of meaningful connection between her family's heritage and her love of fashion.
Russian traditional dresses are beautifully ornate and give off an aura of timelessness, and I think Haley would want to share her love of both fashion and family at the Flower Dance, an important day for her as the Flower Queen.
Outfit and Flowers
Haley is wearing a traditional Russian outfit in Ukrainian colours (gold and blue) with a white Rubakha puffed-sleeve shirt (in honour of the traditional white Flower Dance dress). She also has both the Ukrainian and Russian national flowers in her hair (Sunflower and Chamomile), along with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila), and Siberian Squill.
**BONUS**
Haley has two different portraits and sprites depending on her marital status. When she's single, she'll wear the Flower Queen's crown to the Flower Dance, but if you marry her, she'll wear a traditional Russian crown instead.
Shane
Georgia is a small country in the Caucasus Mountain region, laying at the intersection of Eastern Europe and West Asia and bordering the countries of Russia, Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.
Friendship is extremely important to the Georgian people, so much so that they even consider close friends on par with family (sometimes even above!). However, Georgians can also be quite emotionally reserved and serious in public, so getting to know them can take a long time; but, once you get to know them and earn their trust, they’ll sacrifice almost anything for you.
Thinking of Shane as a character, his relationships with Marnie, Jas, and Jas’ parents, his initial callousness towards your farmer but the willingness to open up emotionally after getting to know you, and his physical features (dark hair, dark eyes, fair/tanned skin), I thought giving him a Georgian background/heritage would suit him really well.
Outfit and Flowers
Shane is wearing a traditional Georgian outfit in a modern blue colour with gold trim (in honour of the traditional blue Flower Dance suit). He's also wearing a Georgian Snow Rose with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Forget-me-nots (in honour of Jas' late parents).
Marnie
Choosing a background for Marnie was a little more challenging, but considering the background I chose for Shane, I thought giving her an Armenian background would be a good fit for her. Not only because of her features (brown hair, brown eyes, fair/tanned skin, etc.) but considering Armenia's proximity to Georgia and the history of the Armenian people.
I haven't thought of the specifics of Shane and Marnie's family tree, but they both at least share Armenian heritage (perhaps Marnie is Shane's maternal aunt [Armenian] and Shane's father is Georgian? I haven't decided.)
Outfit and Flowers
Marnie is wearing a traditional Armenian outfit from the province of Van. While not traditional, I've given her a white apron in honour of the traditional white Flower Dance dress. She's also wearing the national flower of Armenia in her hair (Forget-me-nots), along with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and Grape Hyacinth.
Jas
It was challenging to choose a background for Jas since it isn't super clear in-game whether she is biologically related to Shane and Marnie or just calls them "aunt" and "uncle" because they were close friends with her parents, and now her legal guardian(s).
It was a little difficult to determine if they are blood-related, but after thinking about Jas' physical features, her personal tastes, and given that Shane only mentions that he was close friends with Jas' parents, not relatives, I think Jas only calls Shane and Marnie "aunt" and "uncle" out of respect, not literal family. (This was a very common cultural thing for us to do with close friends of our parents where I grew up.)
Given that Jas has black coils, blue eyes, a little button nose, and medium-toned skin, as well as loves plum pudding, roses, and coconuts, and has a big bow in her hair, I thought giving her an Afro-Caribbean (Bahamian) and Anglo-Saxon (English) background would suit her really well.
Outfit and Flowers
Jas is wearing a traditional 19th-century English (Anglo-Saxon) outfit, ringlets, and a big white bow in her hair, which were passed down from her mother. While also a traditional dress colour, Jas is wearing a white dress in honour of the traditional white Flower Dance dress.
She's also wearing the national flower of the Bahamas in her hair (The Yellow Elder), along with Baby's Breath (Gypsophila) and The Blue Flower (yes, that's the actual name), along with a big blue sash around her waist. On her wrist, she's wearing a red rose corsage (the national flower of England), with Baby's Breath and The Blue Flower.
Linus + Leo
While I was considering giving Linus and Leo cultural outfits to wear to the Flower Dance, I ultimately decided not to. Not because they don't have backgrounds (they're human, so they certainly do!), but because they are both "wild people".
Linus would certainly know what his family and cultural background would be, but he's decided to forsake all earthly possessions and human labels in an effort to be completely one with nature. I don't think he would have any desire to dress in any cultural or formal way, even at formal community events.
Leo is similar to Linus, with the exception that he probably either doesn't know much about his human parents or has forgotten what his family background would be. He is a bird boy, raised by parrots on Ginger Island, so he probably wouldn't be interested in dressing in any other way than he normally does. (Birds don't wear fancy clothes, after all!)
And since neither Linus nor Leo would know or have any interest in knowing/showing their cultural heritage, I think it's best to leave it a mystery. :)
FAQ:
Q. Is Evelyn's Yiddish dialogue available in other languages? (optional)
A. As of right now, Evelyn's Yiddish dialogue is only available in English. However, translations are welcome and will be implemented in updated versions of this mod (with translation credit).
Q. Are you planning on doing cultural Flower Dance outfits for other characters (SVE, Ridgeside, etc.)?
A. I do plan on adding in other cultural Flower Dance outfits for characters from SVE, but I would need to ask permission from Ridgeside's creator if they would be okay with me doing so. However, this probably won't be for some time since it takes a lot of energy to make large cultural mods like this.
Commissions are open for custom Flower Dance sprites and portraits. Please see my commissions page for more info.
Q. How do you do research for all your cultural mods?
A. It really depends on each individual character, but understanding their personality, values, physical characteristics, family background, and personal growth throughout the game plays an important part in deciding on which cultural background to give them.
Once I get a general sense of the character, I look up what traditional outfits were worn in certain regions (ex. Slavic Europe, Scandinavia, Southern Africa, etc.) to see what a good visual fit for each character would be (as well as consider some general characteristics that the people of that region have) to see if it would be a good fit overall. Sometimes this doesn't always work the first time due to sprite limitations, so it can take a few tries to see what works best.
After I find an outfit that suits the character and works visually with them, I do a deep dive into the meaning and history behind each outfit, to make sure I'm drawing and describing them accurately. With this, I also try to get a good sense of the people/culture behind them as well to make sure I'm being accurate without overgeneralizing or being disrespectful. This is probably the most challenging part of making these mods since there can be many misconceptions associated with or prejudicial attitudes towards certain people groups.
For example, choosing Penny to have an Irish background, with her mother Pam being an alcoholic, was something that could be very problematic, and I struggled with how to go about it:
Alcoholism is a major problem facing people in the Irish community, but being Irish (or of Irish descent) doesn't automatically make someone an alcoholic; Pam uses alcohol as a [destructive] coping mechanism for the trauma and loss in her life, while Penny often uses escapism through books and fantasy as a [somewhat less destructive] coping mechanism for hers. Penny has seen how destructive alcohol has been to her family and denounces it, and though she still struggles with her own trauma, she still tries her best to make a positive impact on the lives of those around her. We also see throughout the game how much Pam has lost in her life, and how she wants better for herself and her daughter, but has become ensnared by the grip of unaddressed trauma and mental health problems -- ultimately leading to her detrimental addiction to alcohol.
So, in giving Penny and Pam an Irish background, I wanted to showcase the struggle with alcoholism that many Irish people face, but not have alcoholism be intrinsically linked to being an Irish person.
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