All cultures have their own special wedding traditions, which often go back hundreds of years. Generally, the white wedding is thought of as a US, UK and European tradition. But a traditional Japanese bride can wear either a white kimono with her hair covered by a white headdress or an elaborate brightly colored kimono, possibly with a wig.
The White Dress
In 1840, Queen Victoria wore a white dress at her wedding to Prince Albert. This caused a sensation and started a trend on both sides of the Atlantic. By the 1890s, upper-class brides were wearing white to reflection their status in the community. By the end of WW11, a white wedding dress was every girls’ dream. Today, a white dress, once thought to represent sexual purity, is usually only worn by a woman at her first marriage.
Dress styles change continually. Think of Princess Diana’s elaborate gown, made of ivory silk taffeta with an antique lace bodice and a 25ft train. Thirty years later, Kate Middleton wore a simple satin dress with a lace top and a skirt appliquéd with lace flowers, when she married Prince William. The important thing to remember is that your dress is a reflection of you, your style and fashion sense. The latest illusion necklines are pretty, but are they you! Choose wisely. This is an important day in your life. Also, select comfortable footwear. If you are unaccustomed to 4″ inch heels, this is not the time to experiment.
Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue
Variations on this tradition are endless. Spend some time thinking about what’s right for you. For her wedding to Prince Ranier, Grace Kelly wore a dress with a bodice of Brussels lace, 125 years old. The something old also symbolizes the bride’s relationship with her family. Maybe your mother or grandmother has kept their wedding dress for you. Good fortune and future happiness are symbolized by a new dress. Many brides borrow jewellery from their mother or a happily married friend for the ceremony. Something blue represents fidelity and love. Perhaps your bouquet could be tied with a blue ribbon.
Veil
The veil is a long standing, bridal tradition. In Roman times, brides wore a brightly coloured veil to ward off evil spirits. By the 19th century, the veil, a symbol of the girl’s virginity and modesty was lifted by the groom at the end of the wedding ceremony. While today’s bride usually wears the veil off her face for the entire ceremony. For assistance in choosing a veil to compliment you and your dress, check out the following steps http://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Wedding-Veil.
Speak Your Mind