Whether or not you personally feel that wearing a wedding garter is appropriate, this timeless bridal fashion accessory is appealing. And while the decision to wear a garter is entirely personal, knowing its background can give you some perspective on whether or not you’d like to follow this custom.
For brides a wedding garter on their special day, or for those who are simply curious about its history, this is all the information you need to know. Details on the garter toss custom are also provided, along with substitutes if you’re not into this wedding reception tradition.
What is Wedding Garter?
On the wedding day, a bride wears a wedding garter, which is an elastic piece covered in fabric, on her thigh beneath her gown. During the reception, the bride throws the band to a group of bachelors as part of a wedding custom known as the bridal garter. One more option for a bride’s wedding night underwear is a garter.
Wedding garters can now be purchased in any color, though most brides choose white or blue. They usually have a lace band or a ruched, satin style. Delicate bows, appliqués, beads, rhinestones, or crystals can even be found on some garters.
Wedding Garter Tradition
Having a tatter of the bride’s dress was thought to bring good fortune, which is where the garter toss tradition originated during the Dark Ages. During this time, the guests turned so obscene that they would frequently follow the couple to their marital bed, tearing at their clothes in an attempt to “encourage” them and possibly snatch a piece of the bridal gown.
During the wedding reception on the dance floor, the groom is customarily the one to remove the garter from the bride’s leg. Usually, the groom looks under her dress for the band and uses his hands or teeth to remove it. This is the male version of the bridal bouquet toss, where the groom throws the garter to a group of single people, and whoever catches it is supposed to be the next to get married. Occasionally, the bachelorette who catches the bridal bouquet will receive the garter from the man who caught it.
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How to Wear Wedding Garter?
Wedding garters are appropriate to wear just above the knee, though there isn’t a specific leg that is meant for them. This is typically the narrowest area of your thigh, so when you walk or dance, your garter won’t easily rub against your other leg. Additionally, your dress will flare out around your knee if you are wearing a mermaid or tighter-fitting wedding gown, which makes this the perfect place for this piece of undergarments. Of course, if raising it feels more comfortable, you can do that.
There are a few things to think about when determining how long to wear a garter. Even if their partner doesn’t intend to take them off and throw them into the crowd, many brides decide to wear their garters the entire day. If you choose this route, it is preferable to wear one made of gathered fabric rather than one made of soft stretch lace that will lie flat against your skin. Alternatively, you could put on your garter just prior to the throw. To participate in the garter toss event, just head to the restroom, put it on, and head to the dance floor.
Wedding Garter Alternative
You can choose to wrap your bouquet in lace or fabric rather than wearing a garter. This can be a sentimental piece of cloth, lace, or ribbon from a wedding gown or the clothes of a loved one, giving your bouquet a special touch.
The traditional garter can be replaced with a chic and contemporary anklet. Select a style that goes with your wedding gown and sense of style, like a plain chain or one that is bejeweled with pearls or gemstones.
Bring a sentimental pocket square or special handkerchief that complements your wedding theme. As a cutesy piece of personalization, you can tuck it into the pocket of your dress or suit.
Quotes for Wedding Garter
Wedding garter quotes can bring a bit of humor, romance, or sentimentality to your big day. There is a rich tradition and history surrounding wedding garters. A quotation that recognizes this past can give the ritual more depth and meaning. Here are a few quotes:
“With this garter, I promise my love and devotion to you for all time.”
“Tossing this garter signifies the start of our happily ever after… may the next catch be just as lucky!”
“As I wear this garter, I carry your love with me always.”
“A little something to remind you of the day you became mine forever.”
“Let this garter be a symbol of the fun and joy we share together.”
