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Traditions: The veil

Filed under: Fashion, Wedding Lore/Traditions

Why are you wearing that veil? You like the symbolism of lifting the veil for the ceremonial wedding kiss? Because it's traditional? But where did that tradition come from? Well, depends on who you ask.

Some say it's to hide the bride from evil spirits until she's under her husband's protection. Or, more pragmatically, to hide her from other young men who'd want to scoop her up first! Some believe the veil was originally seen as a sign of innocence and virginity, while others say it was seen as a sign that the woman was spoken for. Perhaps it's because it's bad luck for the groom to see the bride before they're proclaimed husband and wife.

Here's one for you! In ancient Norse society, brides were pretty much kidnapped. Maybe the veil came from the blindfold they often suffered as they were carried away. (Oh, ick.) Did you know that while we have white veils (symbolizing purity and innocence), in other traditions they can be other colors, even red -- which often symbolizes fertility? Whatever its origins, it's now traditional -- and modern brides wear it because it's sooo romantic!