The bridal garter is a centuries-old wedding tradition, but its popularity seems to be waning. Only about half of the brides I photograph these days wear one, making me wonder if this once-essential wedding accessory is on its way out. Let’s explore the history of the bridal garter, its significance, and whether it still holds a place in modern weddings.

The History of the Bridal Garter

The tradition of the bridal garter dates back to the Middle Ages. During this time, guests considered it good luck to obtain a piece of the bride’s clothing. To protect the bride from having her dress torn apart by eager guests, the garter was introduced as a token that could be removed and tossed to the crowd. This practice evolved over time, becoming a more intimate part of the wedding reception.

In Victorian England, the garter also used more romantic symbolism. It was often adorned with blue ribbons, tying into the old rhyme “something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” The garter became a hidden, special item representing the bride’s purity and fidelity.

The Modern Garter Toss

Today, many couples still enjoy the playful tradition of the garter toss. The groom removes the garter from the bride’s leg, sometimes with a bit of theatrical flair, and tosses it to the single men at the reception. The man who catches the garter is said to be the next to marry, similar to the bouquet toss for single women.

However, some view the tradition as outdated or uncomfortable, preferring to skip it altogether. In response, many couples are finding new ways to honor the tradition without the toss. For example, some brides choose to keep the garter as a keepsake or incorporate it into a private moment with their partner.

Are Garters on Their Way Out?

The decline in garter usage may be part of a broader trend of wedding personalization. Couples today are more inclined to pick and choose which traditions to uphold, often favoring those that resonate personally over those that are simply expected.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards more inclusive and meaningful wedding practices. Brides and grooms create ceremonies and receptions reflecting their unique relationship and values, rather than adhering strictly to tradition. This could explain why fewer brides are wearing garters; the tradition might not feel as relevant or necessary to their celebration.

The Future of the Bridal Garter

While it’s uncertain whether the bridal garter will completely fade from weddings, it’s clear that its role is evolving. For some, it will remain a cherished part of their big day, steeped in tradition and sentiment. For others, it may be replaced with new customs that feel more authentic to their relationship.

Ultimately, the choice to wear a garter—and whether to include a garter toss—should be up to the bride. Weddings are deeply personal events, and each couple should feel empowered to include or exclude elements that best represent their love story.

Final Thoughts

The bridal garter has a rich history and has played a significant role in wedding traditions for centuries. While its popularity may be declining, it still holds sentimental value for many. Whether you choose to wear a garter or not, the most important thing is that your wedding reflects your personal style and love story.

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