Tradition of the Bridal Garter

There is a vast history when it comes to the origin of bridal garters, their significance and purpose. Many wedding traditions stem from superstition - such as the bridal veil, having bridesmaids and throwing the bouquet.

Photography by Jenna Petersen - Jennaphoto.com

The use of a bridal garter can be traced back to the 13th century in Europe. It was considered having a piece of the brides clothing lucky - guests would literally rip at the brides dress to obtain a piece. In other similar practices, the guests would rush the bride down the aisle and try to catch and grab ahold and tear off pieces of the dress as well. In relation to this, in the Middle ages, the groomsmen would only rush at the bride and try to take her garter as a prize. To prevent this, the bride would begin throwing items (such as the garter) to the guests.

Nowadays, the practice of the removal of the garter is reserved for the groom alone and he will throw the garter to any bachelors at the wedding reception. This is done after the bride tosses the bouquet to any single women at the wedding reception. It is rooted in superstition that these two people will be next to marry! Many women will wear two garters on the right leg; one as a keepsake and the other will be the 'toss' garter.

The age old rhyme of 'something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, a silver sixpence in her shoe' still is used nowadays. Blue is still a colour associated with purity and has religious roots. Christians believe it to be a colour of fidelity and purity - it can be traced back to biblical times. In relation to this, in Ancient Rome, brides would have their bridal dress trimmed in a blue material.

The bridal garter is still a tradition still maintained by many brides today. Local lingerie designer Mary Murphy who owns Sioda Lingerie can be found at Sioda Lingerie. Mary's items are all handmade and can be bespoke 'made-to-order' as well. The word 'Sioda' is 'silk' in Irish and encompasses the brand itself perfectly - simple, feminine with a twist.

'Audrey' garter from Sioda Lingerie, available at 'The Vault', Spires Mall

The Vault in Spires Mall (Fisherwick Place, Belfast) is a stockist of Mary's Bridal garters. There are many various bridal garters - from plain and simple to extravagantly frill trimmed, with exquisite Swarovski pearls . The garters themselves are based upon names and each have their own distinctive design and there is a range to suit everyone - garters can be picked to fit in with the theme of your wedding, or the wedding dress itself. For example, the 'Daisy' garter is based upon Daisy Buchanan from The Great Gatsby. This essence has been encapsulated in the materials which are used for this garter. Silk satin (in either ivory, white or champagne) is gathered within a chiffon band and is decorated with a 'chandelier' of crystals.

Instagram: Shimmerandfade

In terms of price, garters can start at from £15 and can range from upto £100; so there is a price to suit everyone. There are a variety of materials that some of the garter collections are made from Nottingham Leavers lace, silk satin and chiffon. Garters can also be made bespokely for that extra special something. If a garter is to be bespokely made, it is noted that at least 2 weeks waiting time is required and to contact Mary herself directly.


Pop down to Spires Mall today to have a look at the garters we have in stock!