Importance of the bridal garter at a wedding: tradition and meaning

The bride's garter plays a significant role in weddings, and choosing it remains an important ritual in preparing for this celebration.

And for good reason: throughout history, this intimate lingerie piece has been considered a lucky charm and a symbol of fertility for the new marriage, but also an element of connection between the bride and her femininity, her power, and her beauty on a day that marks the transition to an exciting new stage of life.

What Does the Bride’s Garter Symbolize in Different Eras and Cultures?

To understand the significance of garters in a wedding and trace the origin of this tradition, we must go back to an ancient Roman belief, according to which keeping a piece of a bride’s clothing brought good luck.

This led to situations where, during the wedding celebrations, some guests would harass the bride to tear off parts of her attire, creating uncomfortable moments.

Thus, an idea emerged: the bride and groom would provide a garment solely meant to be given to guests as a lucky charm.

But then, why choose something so intimate and hidden beneath the skirt?

In popular imagination, and especially in certain religions like Catholicism, the bride’s garter is associated with ideals of purity and chastity, which still accompany wedding rituals in many parts of the world.

That’s why, although in 14th-century France the meaning of wedding garters was similar to that of ancient Rome, in medieval England, it was linked to the bride’s virginity.

Thus, once married and as the newlyweds retired to consummate their union, the woman would remove the garter and throw it as a symbol of leaving behind her single life and beginning a new married life.

Between symbolism and superstition, in some Latin American countries, the garter is placed on the bride’s leg during the ceremony and thrown at the end of the reception to bring prosperity to the next couple to marry (similar to how the bouquet is tossed in Spain and other places).

Why Is the Bride’s Garter Usually Blue?

You’ve probably heard that brides should wear something new (usually the dress), something borrowed (like a family heirloom), and something blue.

This last element is where the blue garter fits in, as in many cultures, it represents loyalty and fidelity.

Nowadays, garters come in all styles, from the most classic, with white or ivory lace and ribbons, bows, or small flowers, to fully customized pieces embroidered with initials or dates, and even details representing the couple’s love story.

Vintage garters, featuring antique black lace with retro details, or luxury garters adorned with crystals, pearls, or small diamonds, are bolder and add a touch of glamour and seduction to the wedding night.

Some women prefer their garter to match their lingerie, including the bra and the bridal panties.

Who Gives and Who Receives the Garter at a Wedding?

Although the meaning of the bride’s garter may seem old-fashioned or temporary, its symbolic value still holds significant sentimental weight.

That’s why today, many modern couples adapt this tradition to their own style and preferences, creating new versions and meanings.

Traditionally, the groom gives the garter to his bride as a gesture of love, affection, and commitment.

In some cultures and communities, however, the bride receives the garter as a gift from a close family member (such as her mother or grandmother) as a way of passing down wisdom and values maintained within the family for generations.

The responsibility of buying both the lingerie and the garter can also fall to the bride’s friends, who contribute to the couple’s happiness and well-being in this way.

Regarding the question “Who receives the garter at a wedding?” it depends.

According to an old French custom, the wife should offer her garter to her husband as proof of love and respect for their marital commitment.

In this same tradition, the groom has the privilege of removing the garter from his wife (sometimes with fun games or dances) and throwing it to the guests for good luck.

Other times, the bride chooses to gift the garter to someone close or trustworthy, such as a sister or maid of honor.

A variation, very typical in some regions of Spain, involves cutting the bride’s garter and the groom’s tie and auctioning them among the guests.

The money raised from the auction serves as a small “dowry” to help the newlyweds financially.

Since there are many versions and traditions surrounding this garment, some brides decide to wear multiple garters during their wedding: one for the groom to remove, one to be cut, and another to be given as a gift at the end of the banquet or kept as a memento of the day.

Our Tips for Choosing Bridal Lingerie

Choosing lingerie for your wedding day is a beautiful and special experience, as it’s essential to feel beautiful on the outside and the inside.

Whether you’re classic or daring, whether you love lace and transparency or prefer a sportier style, you should look for sensual and feminine pieces such as panties, bras, or even bridal shapewear, that enhance your figure, make you feel comfortable, and add elegance to your look.

At Leonisa, you’ll find a wide selection of bridal lingerie to help you enhance your sexiest side without sacrificing comfort.

You're sure to find the perfect model for you!

Some tips to consider for this special day are:

• Choose the right size for your underwear.
• Look for pieces that suit your figure.
• Consider the design of your wedding dress.
• Always opt for high-quality, breathable materials that fit well.
• Think about the color of your lingerie to complement your wedding dress.