The Significance and Care of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Sweaters

The History and Significance of Sigma Gamma Rho Sweaters

Sigma Gamma Rho sorority was founded in 1922 at Butler University in Indianapolis, Indiana by seven young educators. The founders - Mary Lou Allison Little, Dorothy Hanley Whiteside, Vivian White Marbury, Nannie Mae Gahn Johnson, Hattie Mae Ansell Dulin, Bessie M. Downey Martin and Cubena McClure - created the sorority to enhance the quality of life for women through community service and civil and social action. They adopted the motto "Greater Service, Greater Progress," which still guides the organization today.

The founders chose the colors royal blue and gold to represent the sorority. Royal blue symbolizes royalty, dignity, spirit, seriousness and sincerity. Gold symbolizes wisdom, value, wealth, honor, riches, illumination, Spirit, love, kindness and warmth. When members wear Sigma Gamma Rho paraphernalia such as sweaters featuring the sorority's colors, they display pride in the history, principles and achievements of the organization.

The Popularity of Greek Sweaters

Greek letter sweaters became popular among sorority and fraternity members in the 1920s and 30s. College students often customized sweaters with felt Greek letters or embroidered symbols representing their specific organization. Sweaters allowed members to display their affiliation, foster a sense of community and show school spirit. Today, Greek sweaters are still staples in many sorority members' wardrobes.

Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters come in a variety of styles, including cardigans, pullovers, quarter-zip sweaters and sweater vests. Some feature the sorority's full Greek name, while others may simply have the Greek letters ΣΓΡ. Some Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters incorporate the sorority's symbols, such as the dove, globe, lamp, pen and scroll. The royal blue and gold colors are typically incorporated into the sweater's design or trim.

When and Why Members Wear Sigma Gamma Rho Sweaters

Sigma Gamma Rho members enjoy wearing sorority-branded sweaters for a variety of purposes:

• As comfortable loungewear around the house or dorm when relaxing
• To rep their sorority during spirit weeks and events on campus
• To show affiliation during philanthropic and community service activities
• To represent Sigma Gamma Rho while attending national conferences and conventions
• To display their pride as sorority alumni and keep the sisterly bond alive

In addition to sweaters, members often wear shirts, jackets, hats and other accessories featuring the sorority's colors and symbols.

Sorority Sweaters as a Symbol of Sisterhood

For many sorority members, wearing Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters and other Greek paraphernalia is more than just displaying school spirit - it's a symbol of the sisterhood they share. The sweaters represent the deeper connections forged through the shared experiences, traditions, values and mission of the sorority. When members wear letters and symbols commemorating their organization, they announce their commitment to each other and the ideals their sisterhood stands for.

Sorority sweaters are also a way for alumni members to proudly demonstrate their lifelong membership and honor the memories made during their active years. Owning and wearing Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters and other items connects alumni to current members across generations.

Sigma Gamma Rho Sweaters Support Black Businesses

Many Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters are created by African American designers and small business owners. Supporting these entrepreneurs allows members to showcase Black culture, empower future business leaders and honor the organization's commitment to enhancing the Black community.

Some popular Black-owned businesses that produce quality Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters include:

• Sigma Supply Co.
• The Shirt House
• EGG Greek
• The Sweater House Co.
• J&J Fab

By intentionally buying from these companies, Sigma Gamma Rho members can help support minority owned businesses and highlight talented designers of color.

How to Care for Your Sigma Gamma Rho Sweater

Follow these tips to keep your high-quality Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters looking and feeling great for many years:

Read the Care Instructions

Always check the care label on your new sweater to understand the proper washing, drying and ironing methods. Following the recommended instructions will help the sweater maintain its size, shape and color brightness.

Wash in Cold Water

Wash your Greek sweater in cold water to help preserve the colors and prevent shrinkage. Hot water can cause the cotton or wool fibers to tighten and fade. Turn the sweater inside out to protect embellishments during the wash cycle.

Air Dry

Tumble drying can damage the fibers, causing sweaters to shrink or become misshapen. Lay your sweater flat or hang it to air dry instead to extend its life. Reshape the sweater and let it fully dry before storing.

Store Properly

Fold or hang your sweater neatly in a drawer or closet when not in wear. Avoid overstuffing the drawer, which can stretch out the fibers. Store in a cool, dry place and avoid direct sunlight exposure.

Spot Clean When Needed

Treat spills and stains on your sweater promptly by spot cleaning the soiled area with a small amount of gentle laundry detergent or sweater-safe cleaning solution. Avoid vigorously rubbing the fabric.

Steam or Iron Inside Out

Turn your sweater inside out before steaming or ironing to avoid flattening the embroidered Greek letters or appliqués. Use a medium iron setting and avoid pressing down too hard to prevent scorch marks.

Get Prompt Repairs

Visit your local tailor or seamstress for timely repairs if your sweater gets a hole, loses a button or has a split seam. Fixing damage right away will make the repair less noticeable.

With proper care and mending, your quality Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters can stay in great shape for many years to come. The extra effort helps preserve the sentimental value of your cherished sorority keepsakes.

FAQs

What do the colors on Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters represent?

The royal blue and gold colors on Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters represent the sorority's colors. Royal blue symbolizes royalty, dignity, spirit, seriousness and sincerity. Gold represents wisdom, value, wealth, honor, riches, illumination, Spirit, love, kindness and warmth.

Where can I buy a Sigma Gamma Rho sweater?

Quality Sigma Gamma Rho sweaters can be purchased from many retailers that specialize in Greek apparel, including Sigma Supply Co., The Shirt House, EGG Greek, The Sweater House Co., and J&J Fab.

How should I wash my Sigma Gamma Rho sweater?

Hand wash or machine wash your sweater in cold water, using a gentle laundry detergent. Wash it inside out and avoid using fabric softener. Do not wring out or twist the sweater to prevent damage.

How do I dry my sorority sweater?

Lay your sweater flat or hang it up to air dry. Do not put it in the dryer, which can cause shrinkage. Reshape the sweater and allow it to fully dry before storing.

How can I repair damage to my sweater?

Make timely repairs by sewing loose seams or holes, replacing lost buttons, and patching thinning fabric areas. Visit a tailor or seamstress for professional mending services.